Palace of Holyroodhouse (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Palace of Holyroodhouse?
What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The extensive audio guide, free wardens’ talks, and quiet gardens let solo visitors absorb 500 years of royal history at their own pace; only the £25 walk-up ticket and some stair sections reduce ease.
Positives:
- Flexible pacing: You can linger in favorite rooms and skip crowded areas easily.
- Built-in learning: Audio guides and talks fill in details so you don’t need a separate guide.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: Indoor seating in the café fills quickly—plan for a wait or sit outside.
- Audio guide crowds: Pick up your device early to avoid lined-up at peak times.
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 solo trip?
- Explore royal reception rooms with audio guide at your own pace
- Hear hourly warden talks in the Abbey ruins
- Wander quiet gardens with Arthur’s Seat views
- Enjoy flexible solo sightseeing without a group
- Grab a quick coffee or snack in the historic courtyard café
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore apartments, Abbey, gardens and join talks without rush.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Palace of Holyroodhouse
Self-guided multimedia tour:
Use the complimentary audio guide to learn palace history at your own pace.
Tip: Pick up your guide at the entrance and bring headphones for clarity.
Warden short talks:
Join hourly talks in the Abbey ruins to hear myths and dramatic events.
Tip: Check the schedule at the entrance and arrive a few minutes early.
State Apartments & Throne Room:
Inspect plaster ceilings and Brussels tapestries in royal reception rooms.
Tip: Spend extra time in rooms that interest you most without feeling rushed.
Palace Gardens walk:
Stroll the ten-acre gardens with views of Arthur’s Seat.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and capture clear photos.
Café at the Palace:
Sample soups, sandwiches and home-baked cakes in the Mews Courtyard.
Tip: Grab a seat outside for fresh air and people-watching.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Book tickets online: Save £4 per ticket and skip the entry queue.
- Arrive at opening: Beat groups and get clear views in the State Apartments.
- Combine with Royal Mile: Walk from Edinburgh Castle down the Royal Mile to the palace for scenic views.
Reviews of Palace of Holyroodhouse
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 😍
When is the best time to visit Palace of Holyroodhouse (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)?
Apr–Oct afternoon tea is served until 16:00; Nov–Mar until 15:00. Gardens bloom in late spring—visit in May for flowers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (advance) | GBP 21 |
| Coffee at café | GBP 3 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 24 |
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
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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