The Commonwealth: Gifts to The Queen
In the year that The Commonwealth Games come to Scotland, a new display at the Palace of Holyroodhouse marks The Queen's role as Head of the Commonwealth through gifts presented to Her Majesty by Commonwealth countries around the world.
The Queen has visited almost every country in The Commonwealth during her 61-year reign. Underlying these visits, and those made by foreign Heads of State to the United Kingdom, is the important principle of friendship, often recognized by an exchange of gifts.
The Commonwealth: Gifts to The Queen reflects the diverse traditions, craftsmanship and creativity of Commonwealth nations and is included in the price of your visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Gifts to The Queen
The Queen is Head of the Commonwealth, 53 countries spanning every geographical region
The Commonwealth Games
The Games take place every four years in a different Commonwealth country
Video: The Queen and the Games
The long association of The Queen and other members of the Royal Family with the Commonwealth Games
The Queen and the Commonwealth Games
The Baton Relay marks the start of the Games
Map & directions
By car
There is a public car park adjacent to the Palace at Broad Pavement. Please visit the Historic Environment Scotland website for more details.
Accessible parking spaces are located on Horse Wynd, just outside the Palace, on a first-come first-serve basis.
By train
Edinburgh Waverley. The Palace is a 15 minute walk from the station. Visit National Rail Enquiries for times and fares.
By tram
The nearest tram stop is York Place. The Palace is a 20 minute walk from the station. Visit Edinburgh Trams for times and fares.
By coach / bus
Bus number 35 stops near the Palace. Open-top tour buses stop nearby.
Limited free coach parking is available adjacent to the Palace. Alternative pay-and-display coach parking is available on nearby Regent Road.
By bike
A free-to-use public bicycle rack is located opposite the Scottish Parliament. Cycle hire stations are available nearby on both Holyrood Road and Abbeyhill, within a 5 minute walk of the Palace and The Queen’s Gallery. Visit Edinburgh Cycle Hire for details.
