Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Edinburgh.

1 November to 31 March

09:30–16:30 · Thursday to MondayLast admission 15:15; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

1 April to 31 October

09:30–18:00 · Thursday to MondayLast admission 16:30; open every day in June, July and August

Closures

24–26 December 2026 and 11 January 2027Opens at 11:00 on 1 January 2027; as a working palace it can close at short notice

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the palace

The Palace of Holyroodhouse stands at the foot of the Royal Mile, at the opposite end from Edinburgh Castle, beside Holyrood Park.

• By train or on foot: Edinburgh Waverley station is about a 15-minute walk away, and bus 35 stops near the palace.
• By car: a public car park is next to the palace at Broad Pavement, and accessible parking spaces are on Horse Wynd.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Toilets and baby-care facilities in the Mews Courtyard.
• A water fountain for refilling bottles in the Mews Courtyard.
• Some benches around the palace, though seating is limited.
• The Café at the Palace, which can be visited without a ticket.

Bring as little as possible: bags are checked on arrival, there is no cloakroom and bags larger than 45 × 20 × 30 cm are not allowed. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is largely accessible, with some restrictions in Mary, Queen of Scots’ rooms. Accessible toilets are in the Café at the Palace, accessible parking is on Horse Wynd and registered assistance dogs are welcome.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask palace staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the palace thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Photography and filming are not allowed inside the State Apartments; eating and drinking (apart from bottled water) are not allowed inside the palace.
• Smoking and animals are not permitted on the site.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps protect the palace and its collection for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Café at the Palace serves seasonal dishes made from local produce, and the Royal Mile has more cafés and restaurants nearby.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Only bottled water may be taken inside the palace; food and other drinks go in a closed bag.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: arrive with as little as possible for the bag check, and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a layer for the weather and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow about an hour for the multimedia guide, and more for the abbey and the garden.