Holyrood Park & Palace of Holyroodhouse
About
Holyrood Park is a vast royal park at the eastern end of the Royal Mile that contains Arthur's Seat, Salisbury Crags, three lochs, and the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel — all within the city limits. The Palace of Holyroodhouse at the park's entrance is the King's official Scottish residence, and the State Apartments and historic chambers (including the rooms where Mary Queen of Scots witnessed the murder of her secretary David Rizzio) are open to visitors. The palace is elegant rather than spectacular — it's worth visiting for the Great Gallery with its 96 portraits of Scottish monarchs (many fictional), the Abbey ruins behind the palace, and the beautiful formal gardens. The audio guide brings the sometimes dry royal history to life. The park itself is the real star — 640 acres of wildly varied terrain from craggy volcanic peaks to peaceful loch shores. The Radical Road along the base of Salisbury Crags is one of Edinburgh's finest walks (30 minutes, mostly flat), with views across to Arthur's Seat and down to the city. Combining the palace, park, and a walk up Arthur's Seat makes for a full and memorable day.
https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse 0131 123 7306
Tickets & Pricing
Palace: Adult £18.50, Under 17s free. Park: free. Audio guide included in palace ticket.
Opening Times
Palace: daily 9:30-18:00 (Apr-Oct), 9:30-16:30 (Nov-Mar). Park: open 24 hours. Closed when Royal Family in residence.
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