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Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, Central Scotland, Scotland
On The Map: The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located in the heart of the City of Edinburgh. The famous Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle at its western end and Holyrood to the east.
The official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty The Queen, this beautiful palace sits at the bottom of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, sheltered by Arthur’s Seat. Holyrood has many strong ties in Scottish history, and is well-known for being the home of Mary Queen of Scots.
Visitors can view the stunning Royal Apartments, which show the different tastes of each monarch with fine plasterwork ceilings and decadent furnishings. On a tour round the palace you can see the Great Gallery, hung with portraits by Jacob de Wet of the real and legendary kings of the country, and see the display on the Order of the Thistle, the highest honour in Scotland.
Visitors can also take a guided tour of the historic Holyrood Abbey ruins, and learn of the building’s fascinating history through the centuries from its beginnings in 1128. The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during July, August and September when it is open 7 days a week.