Palace of Holyroodhouse Tickets

The Palace of Holyroodhouse has three main entrances:

• Main entrance: Found on the Royal Mile, this is the primary access point for all ticket holders.
• Queen’s entrance: Located on the Canongate, this entrance is for visitors with a tour of the Queen’s Apartments.
• Gatehouse entrance: Situated on the High Street, this entrance welcomes all ticket holders and stays open late during special evening events.

• Visitor Centre: No need to guess where to go next. The visitor centre has maps, helpful staff, and all the info you need to make the most of your visit.
• Café: Hungry or just craving a cuppa? The on-site café has you covered with tasty snacks, drinks, and full meals to keep you fuelled.
• Gift shop: Want a royal souvenir? The gift shop’s packed with everything from books and jewellery to quirky keepsakes you won’t find anywhere else.
• Restrooms: Clean and easy to find, restrooms are dotted conveniently around the palace so you’re never caught out.
• Wi-Fi: Snap a shot, post it instantly. Free Wi-Fi is available in selected areas so you can stay connected as you explore.
• Pushchairs for hire: Baby carriers and hip seats are available on request.
• Breastfeeding: You can breastfeed anywhere in the palace or The King’s Gallery—no need to ask.

• Wheelchair accessibility: Most areas of the palace are wheelchair accessible, though Mary, Queen of Scots’ rooms have some restrictions.
• Free carer ticket: If you need support during your visit, you can book a complimentary ticket for a companion to come along with you.
• Accessible toilets: You’ll find accessible toilets in the Café at the Palace..
• Seating: Need a breather? There’s limited bench seating available throughout the Palace grounds.
• Assistance dogs: Only registered guide, hearing, and assistance dogs are welcomed throughout the site.
• Multimedia guide: The guide comes with BSL, subtitles, and an audio-descriptive version so everyone can enjoy the stories behind the palace.
• Staff support: Several of the palace Wardens are Dementia Friends, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
• Disabled parking: Accessible parking is available on Horse Wynd, right outside the Palace, and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Security screening: All bags go through security checks, so travel light to make entry quicker and easier.
• Bag size restrictions: Only small bags (max 45cm × 20cm × 30cm) are allowed inside. Larger items must be stored offsite, like at Waverley Station.
• Pushchairs and baby carriers: Pushchairs are usually welcome, but during busy times they’ll need to be left at the entrance. 
• No eating or drinking: Only bottled water is allowed inside. Snacks and drinks must stay sealed in your bag until after the visit.
• No smoking or vaping: Smoking and vaping, including e-cigarettes, are not allowed anywhere indoors or in the gardens.
• Restricted Items: Items like knives over 7.7cm, pepper spray, aerosols, alcohol, paints, skateboards, drones, and large blades (including kirpans over 7.7cm) are not allowed inside.
• Photography: To help preserve the interiors, photography is not permitted inside the palace.
• Animals: No pets are permitted inside the venue.
• One-Way System: A one-way route is in place throughout the palace to help with visitor flow and safety. This means you cannot go back on your route, so thoroughly enjoy the things on your way!
• Medical equipment allowed: You’re welcome to bring pacemakers, hearing aids, and essential medical devices. Just let staff know if you need help.

• Arrive early for fewer crowds: The first entry slot of the day is usually the quietest, giving you time and space to enjoy the interiors without the rush.
• Bring earphones for the multimedia guide: The palace offers a multimedia guide (with BSL and audio-described options), and bringing your own wired earphones makes it more comfortable.
• Wear shoes with good grip: The palace has original stone floors and uneven surfaces—especially around Holyrood Abbey and the courtyard—so stable footwear is a must.
• Check garden and abbey access beforehand: The gardens and Holyrood Abbey sometimes close for restoration or weather; check the official website so you’re not caught off guard.
• Use the Mews toilets beforehand: The main restrooms are outside the entrance gate in the Mews Courtyard, and re-entry isn’t always possible once inside.
• Bring a water bottle: Only bottled water is allowed in the palace, so pack one if you think you’ll need it, especially on warmer days.

• The Café at the Palace: This on-site cafe is your go-to for a quick refuel during your visit. Think yummy light meals, snacks, and drinks – perfect for grabbing a bite on the go. The toasted ciabatta sandwiches like the Chipotle Chicken, Italian Deli, and New Yorker at the cafe are must-tries!
• Wedgwood the Restaurant (0.6 km): Up for a fancy feast? This place is a bit further, but it's worth it for a refined Scottish dining experience. They use fresh, local ingredients to create culinary magic. The Peterhead Cod and Avon Valley roe deer loin are specialties.
• Whiski Rooms (1.6 km): Want a taste of Scotland in one place? This spot combines a restaurant, bar, and whisky shop! You can enjoy delicious Scottish food alongside a massive selection of whiskies. Pair your haggis or scotch beef steak pie with one of the 300 whiskies available.
• Papii Café (2 km): Craving some Scottish or European comfort food? This cozy cafe is a short walk away and has a welcoming atmosphere to match their delicious dishes. Do try the bacon and maple syrup waffles and the spanakopita.

• Budget hotels: St Christopher's Inn Edinburgh Original (1.1 km I €34), Safestay Edinburgh Cowgate (1.2 km I €53), Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel (1.6 km I €80)
• Mid-range hotels: Travelodge Edinburgh Central Waterloo Place (0.9 km I €132), Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre by IHG (1.4 km I €189), Courtyard Edinburgh (1.4 km I €205)
• High-end hotels: 24 Royal Terrace Hotel (0.8 km I €316), The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection (1.2 km I €300), W Edinburgh (1.2 km I €372)

• Museum of Edinburgh (0.3 km): Step into a treasure trove of the city’s past—this place is packed with everything from old street signs to collarbones of dogs (yep), plus stories of Edinburgh’s quirkiest residents.
• Dynamic Earth (0.4 km): Get ready to time travel! From the Big Bang to the ocean floor, Dynamic Earth throws you into volcanoes, glaciers, and epic space vibes—all in one wild ride.
• Edinburgh Dungeon (1.1 km): Ready to laugh-scream your way through history? Edinburgh Dungeon blends jump scares, creepy characters, and dark comedy to bring the city’s gory past to life—brace yourself, it’s wild.