The Palace of Holyroodhouse

Inside the palace

The walls of the Palace of Holyroodhouse almost palpitate with history: during its 500 eventful years, it’s housed Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and today it is The Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Standing stoically at the end of the Royal Mile, it makes for a regal start to your visit to the city of Edinburgh...

Once inside the State Appartments, walk the perimeter of the Great Gallery, gazing at the portraits of 95 kings and one queen. During the festive period, the gallery is decked out with a big Christmas tree, adding extra sparkle to this already grand room. The Royal Dining Room is also a feast for the eyes during the Christmas period, with the table decorated with wreaths and candied sugared fruits, and laid out with pieces from a silver service gifted to George V and Queen Mary in 1935 to mark their Silver Jubilee.

Elsewhere in the palace, don’t miss the dramatic throne room, the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the Ante-chamber, where you can learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie. Outside of the palace, take time to look around the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and walk around the manicured Palace Gardens.

Outside the palace

Leave Holyroodhouse and climb up to Arthur’s Seat for views so sky-high they even dwarf the palace. Descend and go back past Holyroodhouse to walk the Royal Mile. The road will wind you past a timeline of Scottish history, from the sleek Scottish Parliament building to the Gothic St Giles’ Cathedral. Stop for a drink in the bustling Medieval marketplace of Grassmarket while soaking up views of another popular royal hangout – Edinburgh Castle.

In the evening, head north to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to see the trees twinkling with lights – a magical end to a festive day out.