Holyrood Palace | Location, Directions, & Tips

Where is the Palace of Holyroodhouse located?

Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK

Holyrood Palace sits at the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, right in the heart of the city. It’s the grand finale of the historic mile-long stretch from Edinburgh Castle, and it’s just a short walk from top landmarks like the Scottish Parliament, Calton Hill, and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Closest landmark: Dynamic Earth (0.8 km)

Getting to the Palace of Holyrood by public transport

Best for: Budget travel, sightseeing
Travel time: Around 15 minutes by bus from Edinburgh Waverley Station, depending on traffic
Closest stop: Abbeyhill Crescent, just a short walk to the palace entrance
Timings: Buses run from early morning to late night; check local schedules

Bus 35 takes you past Princes Street and Canongate, offering great city views before dropping you near Holyrood Palace—quick, easy, and wallet-friendly.

Best for: Saving time, sightseeing
Travel time: About 23 minutes from Balfour Street to St. Andrew Square
Closest stop: St. Andrew Square, around 2 km away from the palace
Timings: Trams run from early morning until late night; check timetables for exact schedules

Ride the tram from Balfour Street to St. Andrew Square, then enjoy a scenic stroll down Leith Street and Canongate to reach Holyrood Palace efficiently and stress-free.

Best for: Saving time, getting to other parts of Scotland
Travel time: About 15 minutes on foot from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Holyrood Palace
Closest stop: Edinburgh Waverley Station, just a short walk to the palace
Timings: Trains run from early morning to late at night; schedules vary by route

Arriving by train? Edinburgh Waverley is well-connected across Scotland, and from there it’s a pleasant 15-minute walk down the Royal Mile to reach Holyrood Palace.

Getting to the Palace of Holyroodhouse by car

Best for: Visitors who want independence and flexibility

Travel time: Around 10 minutes by car from Edinburgh city centre, depending on traffic

Distance: Approximately 2 miles from the city centre

Timings: You can drive at any time, though parking may be limited during peak hours

Parking facilities: The Broad Pavement car park (Holyrood Park) charges £1 per hour (minimum £1), Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Free on weekends and certain public holidays.

Other options nearby: Other car parks nearby include Royal Mile (£2.50/hour), Elm Row (£2/hour), and Abbeyhill (£1.50/hour). Rates may vary, so always double-check for the latest info. Disabled parking available at all locations, though spaces can fill quickly during peak times.

Driving via the Calton Road is quick and scenic—you’ll pass key landmarks like the Scottish Parliament and National Gallery before arriving at Holyrood Palace in just about 10 minutes.

Walking to the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Best for: Exploring Edinburgh on foot and enjoying the sights

Travel time: It takes about 20 minutes to walk from Edinburgh city centre to Holyrood Palace, covering roughly 1.5 miles.

The route is flat and easy, passing iconic landmarks like the Scottish Parliament and National Gallery. It’s a scenic and enjoyable way to reach the palace while soaking up Edinburgh’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions about getting to Palace of Holyroodhouse

Can I get to Holyrood Palace by bike?

Absolutely! Holyrood Palace is easy to reach by bike, and there are bike racks nearby where you can park. Just be sure to keep an eye on traffic around the Royal Mile.

Can I reach Holyrood Palace from the airport easily?

Absolutely! You can catch an Airlink bus directly from the airport to Waverley Station and from there, it’s only a short walk to Holyrood Palace.

What’s the best way to get there if I want to avoid crowds?

To skip the crowds, we recommend going early in the morning when it opens. If you’re driving, weekdays tend to be quieter too, especially before lunchtime.

Are taxis easy to find around Holyrood Palace?

Yes, taxis are available around the palace area. You can easily hail one on the Royal Mile, or use a taxi app if you prefer booking ahead.

How far is Holyrood Palace from the National Museum of Scotland?

It’s only a 10-minute walk! The museum is right off the Royal Mile, so you can wander through the Old Town while heading toward your royal destination.

Can I walk to Holyrood Palace from Edinburgh Castle?

Of course! The Royal Mile connects the two landmarks, and it’s a lovely 20-minute stroll. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Edinburgh’s most iconic sights!

What’s the most scenic route to Holyrood Palace?

If you love beautiful views, walk down the Royal Mile. You'll pass old cobbled streets, historic sites, and charming cafes, all while heading toward the palace. The walk is an experience in itself!

How far is the palace from Arthur’s Seat?

It’s just a short 15-minute walk from Arthur’s Seat to the palace. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the breathtaking views of Edinburgh before heading to the royal residence.

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