Image courtesy of John Freeman The Royal Collection © 2009, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
At the other end of the Royal Mile from the Castle sits the Palace of Holyroodhouse. As the official Scottish Residence of Her Majesty The Queen, this magnificent building is used by the Royal Family to host State ceremonies while in Scotland. The State Apartments are richly decorated with works of art from the Royal Collection. The Palace was built in the style of a French chateau, the Great Gallery is adorned with over one hundred portraits of Scottish monarchs through the ages and the Royal Apartments are fascinating for their associations with Mary, Queen of Scots’ turbulent history. There are also beautiful gardens to explore where the Queen hosts her annual Garden Party.
Apr - Oct: 0930-1800; Nov - Mar: 0930-1630; closed 15 May – 1 June inc, 26 June – 7 July inc; 25 & 26 Dec