What are Holyrood House Opening Hours?

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Discover the timeless elegance of Holyrood Palace with its rich history and captivating architecture. Plan your visit wisely by exploring the palace's timings and opening hours. Immerse yourself in royal heritage and book your tickets now for an unforgettable experience. Don't miss this majestic gem in Edinburgh's heart!

Holyrood Palace Opening Hours

General Timings

Open from: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, seven days a week.
Last admission: The last admission is at 4:30 pm.
Night hours: Holyrood Palace is not open after hours.
Closed: Holyrood Palace is closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Facilities Timings

Queen's Gallery: 10:00am - 5:30pm
State Apartments: 10:00am - 5:30pm
Palace Gardens: 9:30am - 6:00pm (April - September)
Palace Shop: 9:30am - 5:30pm
Palace Café: 10:00am - 5:30pm

Best Time to Visit Holyrood Palace

High Season vs. Low Season:

Peak season: The peak season for visiting Holyrood Palace is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many tourists visiting Edinburgh.

Low season: The low season for visiting Holyrood Palace is during the winter months, from November to March. During this time, the weather is cold and wet, and there are fewer tourists visiting Edinburgh.

Weekday vs. Weekend:

Weekdays: Holyrood Palace is less crowded on weekdays than on weekends. If you are looking for a less crowded experience, then I recommend visiting on a weekday.

Weekends: Holyrood Palace is more crowded on weekends, especially in the summer months. If you are planning to visit on a weekend, then I recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds.

Best Time of Day to Visit

Morning: The best time of day to visit Holyrood Palace is in the morning. The palace opens at 9:30 am, and the crowds are usually smaller in the morning.
Afternoon: The palace is also less crowded in the afternoon, after the lunch rush.
Evening: The palace is open until 5:30 pm, and it can be a nice experience to visit in the evening. The light is beautiful at this time of day, and the crowds are usually smaller.

Other Factors to Consider

Weather: The weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable, so it is important to check the forecast before you visit. If it is raining, you may want to consider visiting the palace on a different day.
Prices: The admission price to Holyrood Palace is £16 for adults and £12 for children. There are discounts available for seniors and students.
Crowds: The palace can be crowded, especially in the summer months. If you are not a fan of crowds, then you may want to consider visiting during the off-season or on a weekday.

Holyrood Palace Tickets

Palace of Holyroodhouse Entrance Tickets with Multimedia Guide

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

Flexible Duration

More details

£18

Entry Tickets to 3 Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Free Cancellation

Instant Confirmation

Mobile Ticket

Flexible Duration

Audio Guide

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£65

Walking Tour of Royal Mile with Optional Edinburgh Castle Tickets

Free Cancellation

Mobile Ticket

1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr. 15 min.

Guided Tour

More details

£22

How Long Do You Need to Tour Holyrood Palace?

The amount of time it takes to tour Holyroodhouse Palace depends on how much of the palace you want to see and how in-depth you want to explore each room.

If you just want to see the State Rooms, which are the most popular part of the palace, you can probably do it in about an hour. However, if you want to see the Queen's Apartments, the Royal Library, and the Queen's Gallery, you'll need more time.

The Royal Collection Trust, which manages Holyroodhouse Palace, recommends that you allow at least 2 hours to see the palace. However, if you're a history buff or a royal enthusiast, you could easily spend 3 or more hours exploring the palace.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holyrood Palace Timings

what are the opening hours of Holyrood Palace?

Holyrood Palace is open from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM (last admission at 5:15 PM) from April to October and from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (last admission at 3:15 PM) from November to March. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during July, August, and September when it is open 7 days a week.

Is Holyrood Palace open every day?

Yes, Holyrood Palace is open every day, except on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

When is Holyrood Palace closed?

Holyrood Palace is closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

How long should I spend at Holyrood Palace?

If you want to explore the palace in its entirety, including the State Apartments, the Queen's Gallery, and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, then I recommend setting aside at least 2-3 hours.

What is the best time to visit Holyrood Palace?

The best time to visit Holyrood Palace is in the morning. The palace opens at 9:30am, and the crowds are usually smaller in the morning.

Is Holyrood Palace open on public holidays?

Yes, Holyrood Palace is open on public holidays. However, the opening hours may be different on some public holidays.

Should I visit Holyrood Palace on a public holiday?

It depends. If you are looking for a less crowded experience, then it is recommended visiting on a weekday. However, if you want to see the palace on a special occasion, such as the Queen's Birthday, then you may want to visit on a public holiday.

What are the Holyrood Palace opening hours for public holidays?

The opening hours for Holyrood Palace on public holidays may vary. It is best to check the website or call the palace before your visit to confirm the latest opening hours.

What are the last admission times for Holyrood Palace?

The last admission to Holyrood Palace is at 4:30pm.

What are the restrictions on what I can bring into Holyrood Palace?

You cannot bring in large bags, food, drink, or weapons.

Is there a dress code for Holyrood Palace?

There is no formal dress code for Holyrood Palace, but you are expected to dress appropriately. This means no shorts, swimwear, or flip-flops.