Holyrood Palace Timings | When to Visit, Duration & More

Timings

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open from 9:30am to 6pm in the summer and 9:30am to 4:30pm in the winter.

Jan - Mar

Apr - Jun

Jul - Sep

Oct - Dec

Jan 1 TO Mar 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Mar 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Tuesday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Wednesday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Thursday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Friday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Saturday	09:30–16:30	15:15
Sunday	09:30–16:30	15:15

Last entry: 3:15pm (winter) or 4:30pm (summer)
Closed: Christmas Day and Good Friday

Best time to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Weekday vs Weekend

Holyrood Palace is less crowded on weekdays than on weekends. If you want a less crowded experience, we recommend visiting on a weekday.
Holyrood Palace is more crowded on weekends, especially in the summer months. If you plan to visit on a weekend, arrive early before 11am to avoid the crowds.
The palace is also less crowded in the afternoon, after the lunch rush. The palace is open until 6pm, 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.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Peak season vs low 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 many tourists visit Edinburgh.
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 fewer tourists visit Edinburgh.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long do you need to tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

The amount of time it takes to tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse 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 the Palace of Holyroodhouse, 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 the Palace of Holyroodhouse timings

Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse open every day?

Yes, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is open every day, except on Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse 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 the palace on a public holiday?

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

How long should I spend at the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

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 are the restrictions on what I can bring into the palace?

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

Is there a dress code?

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