Royal Residences Through The Ages
Following a chronological order of Royal residences in Edinburgh we start at the Edinburgh castle. Situated on the volcanic Castle Rock, it has one of the finest panoramic views of the city. The castle was a royal residence as early as the 12th century under the reign of David I.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the second stop of the tour. The first stones were laid in 1501 by order of James IV and successive regents have added to the structure. Queen Elizabeth II still resides here on her visits to Edinburgh and the gardens house traditional summer garden parties.
Last but not least is the spectacular Royal Yacht Britannia. King George VI initiated the plans to build the yacht but died before it was commenced in 1952. His daughter Elizabeth II continued his project and got very involved with the design. The yacht magnificently displays the personal taste of a modern monarch.
Attractions On This Excursion
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Contacts
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX, Telephone +44 (0) 131 524 1120, Visit the website
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.
Opening Hours
Apr - Oct: 0930-1800; Nov - Mar: 0930-1630; closed 15 May – 1 June inc, 26 June – 7 July inc; 25 & 26 Dec
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