Holyrood Palace

Visit the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

Holyrood Palace, formally called the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is the official residence in Scotland of the British Royal Family. It has served as the main home of Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century and now serves as a setting for official entertaining events and state occasions.

His Majesty the King stays at the palace during Holyrood Week, which is usually at the end of June to the beginning of July.  When His Majesty is in residence, the yellow-and-red Royal Banner of Scotland is flown outside and the Royal Company of Archers stands guard at the palace. 

Holyrood Palace is situated at the opposite end of Edinburgh Castle at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. On a self-guided audio tour, visitors can explore the opulent State Apartments, the historic chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots and the palace abbey.