Palace of Holyroodhouse: Worth Visiting?

Expect a straightforward one-hour wander through the palace's state apartments, historic rooms, and ruined abbey. You'll see lavish furnishings, portraits, and the spot where Mary Queen of Scots' secretary was murdered. The self-guided audio tour is clear and moves at a sensible pace; it's interesting rather than thrilling. The grounds are pleasant for a short stroll afterwards, especially the walled garden if the weather cooperates. It's a working royal palace, so parts may close at short notice when the King is in residence.

Best time is May to early September when days are long and gardens look their finest, though expect crowds. Shoulder months like April and October are quieter with decent light. Expect to pay around $30-35 for a standard admission ticket. Adding it to a hop-on hop-off bus ticket or combining with Edinburgh Castle makes sense if you're doing both anyway; guided small-group tours of the Royal Mile and both palaces run about $130.

Tip: Get the audio guide – it's genuinely well done and lets you go at your own speed. Skip the on-site café unless you need a quick coffee; you're five minutes from better options on the Royal Mile. If you're short on time or not especially into royal history, the exterior and abbey ruins are the best bits and can be seen quickly without a full ticket.