The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the King’s official residence in Edinburgh and the home of Scottish royal history. Children get their own way through it: a family multimedia tour guides them round the Palace, and partway along you can step off the visitor route into the Family Room, with a reading corner, hands-on objects and costumes for dressing up as kings and queens. Outside, a family trail leads along woodland paths and across the giant lawns of the Palace Gardens, and a separate family trail for Holyrood Abbey can be downloaded before you go.
This is a historic building, so floors may be uneven, the Abbey floor is covered in gravel chippings, and Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers are reached by a steep spiral staircase with no wheelchair access. Pushchairs can be taken inside except during busy periods; if you are asked to leave yours, there is a dedicated area inside the entrance, and baby carriers and hip seats are available on request.
For babies and toddlers there is Royal Rhyme Time on the first Monday of each month. Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere in the Palace. If you also want to see The King’s Gallery, a combined ticket for both gives a discount on each, though it is sold only for set exhibition dates.
Family FAQ
How much does Holyrood Palace cost?
Adults £22 in advance or £26 on the day; children aged 5 to 17 £11 in advance or £13 on the day; young people aged 18 to 24 £14 or £17.
Where are the toilets at Holyrood Palace?
Toilets and baby-care facilities are in the Mews Courtyard, so use them before you start the tour; accessible toilets are in the Café.
