PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

EDINBURGH

Sitting at the foot of Arthur’s Seat and with the Scottish Parliament a stone’s throw away, this area of Edinburgh is one that’s always worth a visit.

That’s the case all year round, but especially so during spring and summer. If you’re visiting over the next few months, make sure you leave time to see the gardens.

They really are something special. At this time of year, the flowers are starting to come into their own and a kaleidoscope of colour spreads its way around the grounds.

Sign up for the Royal Visit ticket and you’ll be taken off the public garden path to see the Jubilee Border, sun dial and ha-ha (trench). The Jubilee Border was gifted to the Queen during her Silver Jubilee year in 1977. It’s at its best during the height of summer, but still worth seeing at other times.

The gardens are as spectacular as you’d expect from a Royal palace. After your visit, though, head across the road to Holyrood Park for a complete contrast. It’s surely one of the nicest green spaces in the city centre. If you want one of the best views of Edinburgh and beyond, then you’ll have to work for it. Climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat is great fun – and effort! – and the scene that unfolds before you makes it worth it.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX

0303 123 7306