The Palace has served as a royal residence for more than five centuries and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's storied past. Visitors to the Palace can explore the Historic Apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, the site of numerous significant events during her brief and tumultuous reign.
These include the horrific assassination of her Italian secretary, David Rizzio, at the hands of her husband, Lord Darnley. Her Bedchamber, known as 'the most famous room in Scotland,' is a highlight of the tour.
Images: Royal Collection Trust / © HM King Charles III 2024
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during 21st May to 7th September 2026 when it is open 7 days a week.
1 November – 31 March 2026
Thursday to Monday, 09:30-16:30 (last admission 15:15)
1 April - 31 October
Thursday to Monday, 09:30-18:00 (last admission 16:30)
Palace closed
25 – 26 December 2025 - Palace closed
1 January 2026 - Palace opens at 11:00
19 January 2026 - Palace closed
14 – 18 May 2026 - Palace closed
26 June – 3 July 2026 - Palace closed
25 – 26 December 2026 - Palace closed
As the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal palace, sometimes closures can happen at short notice.Â
Suggested visit time: 1.5 hours (approx) - The Admission Centre is busiest from opening and throughout the morning. For the best experience please book your tickets in advance and arrive after 11:00.
Due to essential building conservation work, Mary, Queen of Scots’ historic chambers will be closed from Thursday 15th January to Monday 9th February 2026. Instead, visitors will be able to experience the West Drawing Room, which is not normally open to the public. The West Drawing Room is used by members of the Royal Family as a private sitting room. It is amongst the most beautiful rooms in the Palace, with exceptional oak panelling, historic paintings and one of the finest 17th-century plasterwork ceilings.
Your voucher is valid for 12 Months from the date of issue.
Please note you must have booked and taken your experience before the expiry date.
The centres contracted with us hold public liability insurance. We also hold contingency liability cover. You will not be liable for accidental damage to equipment, except where damage has been caused as a result of recklessness or wilful negligence.
A cancellation indemnity, subject to terms, is included with every voucher.
Images are for illustrative purposes only. The experience may vary by location or availability. Please refer to the experience description for full details of what is included.
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