Palace of Holyroodhouse (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Palace of Holyroodhouse?
What makes it 77% Baby-Friendly: Under-5s enter free and there are baby-change rooms, breastfeeding welcome, and loan carriers, but prams can be turned away at peak times and narrow stairs require lifting, so comfort is good but imperfect.
Positives:
- Free Admission for Baby: Children under 5 enter free with a paying adult.
- Pram-Friendly Paths: Wide garden paths allow easy pram access.
- Baby Care Facilities: On-site baby-changing and breastfeeding rooms available.
Challenges:
- Narrow Interiors: Some State Apartment rooms are too tight for prams.
- Uneven Terrain: Abbey ruins have uneven stone surfaces.
- Busy Café: Limited indoor pram space during peak hours.
What is Palace of Holyroodhouse?
- A 16th-century royal palace at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile that serves as the official Scottish residence of the monarchy
- A historic complex that combines the Palace of the Stuarts’ State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and ten acres of landscaped gardens beside Arthur’s Seat
- A repository of royal art and furnishings, featuring ornate plaster ceilings, Brussels tapestries and the apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots
What is so special about Palace of Holyroodhouse for with baby?
- Free entry for baby and pram-friendly garden paths
- Audio guides let adults tour at a relaxed pace
- Family Room offers feeding and changing facilities
- Historic apartments and Abbey ruins bring Scotland’s past alive
- Café with outdoor seating welcomes prams
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows leisurely tour of State Apartments, Abbey and gardens with baby breaks.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Palace of Holyroodhouse
State Apartments Tour:
Walk through royal reception rooms and the Great Gallery.
Tip: Pick up the free multimedia guide and move at your own pace. Use baby carrier in narrow rooms.
Holyrood Abbey Ruins:
Explore the medieval Abbey nave and Gothic ruins.
Tip: Use a baby carrier on uneven ground. Plan for short stops to view safety.
Palace Gardens Stroll:
Enjoy ten acres of landscaped gardens with views of Arthur’s Seat.
Tip: Paths are pram-friendly. Bring snacks to picnic and rest on benches.
Family Room & Baby Facilities:
Quiet space for feeding and changing in the Mews Courtyard.
Tip: Follow signs from the café. Arrive early to secure seating.
Café at the Palace:
Simple meals and drinks with outdoor seating.
Tip: Order light dishes for a quick break. Outdoor tables welcome prams.
When is the best time to visit Palace of Holyroodhouse (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
In spring and summer the gardens bloom—perfect for picnics. In autumn, leaves add color but check for wet paths. In winter, dress warmly and confirm café hours before visiting.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Palace of Holyroodhouse (Edinburgh)
Anandaraman Kaippillil Ramachandran
The palace was truly magnificent, though it offered little beyond its rooms; there were no relics of the king, no swords, nor treasures to behold. Yet, in its grandeur and elegance, the palace itself was marvellous.
Melanie Stensrud
Our visit was a life long (or at least since college) bucket list item accomplished. No pictures allowed inside, but it's magnificent. Only a tiny part is preserved from Mary, Queen of Scots time. The rest is a remarkably comfortable stately house. The furniture and art are impressive. The back stairs to Queen Mary's apartments are so tiny and steep it's amazing that so many people could use them...
Linda McVicar
Interesting castle and history. Recommend taking the after hours guided tour. No one else around. The guide was very knowledgeable and interesting. The tour also includes the gardens and the abbey. And they give you a souvenir book!
Katherine Haywood
Don’t think it was worth the cost of admission compared to some other attractions I’ve been to. I took my time and still only spent about an hour here. Got there early and was probably one of the first 50 people in line so got to enjoy some of the rooms by myself for a bit which was great. Loved that they automatically give you the audio tour. There’s maybe 10 or so rooms that you get to walk thro...
Jana Miskarova
The best way is to buy tickets in advance or buy a package with hop on and off bus as the tickets are guaranteed entry, pre booked. It's kinda lots of people,despite its Monday afternoon. Anyway, it is worth visiting. It's strictly prohibited to take photos inside the palace, so i can only post the area around. Enjoy coming as it's full of history. The Royal Botanical Garden is stunning 😍
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2 adults) | GBP 42 |
| Café snacks and drinks | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 57 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets in advance to skip queues.
- Use Baby Carrier: Carry baby in a sling for narrow spaces and uneven floors.
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening time to avoid crowds and get best café seating.
Map of Palace of Holyroodhouse
Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK
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About Palace of Holyroodhouse
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 303 123 7306Explore Popular Things to Do
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