Christmas at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
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.
This winter the Palace of Holyroodhouse will be adorned with glittering decorations to celebrate the festive season.
A Christmas tree at the Palace of Holyroodhouse ©
The festive decorations at the Palace of Holyroodhouse will include magnificiently decorated trees in the Throne Room and Great Gallery, adorned with shimmering decorations and sparkling lights, while the Great Stair leading to the historic State Apartments will be draped with twinkling velvet garlands, glistening berries and seasonal foliage.
In the Royal Dining Room, the table will be laid with pieces from a silver service presented to George V and Queen Mary in 1935 to mark their Silver Jubilee, and decorated with flowers, wreaths and spires of faux candied sugared fruits.
The table in the Royal Dining Room decorated for Christmas ©
Festive events for adults
Christmas Exclusive Evening Tours of the Palace are available on selected dates in December. Visitors will enjoy a private after-hours tour of the State Apartments, culminating in a glass of champagne and a mince pie - the perfect Christmas present for a loved one, or treat for yourself.
Festive events for children
See all our events for kids at the Palace and make sure you don't miss the festival day with activities for all the family to join in. Read more about things to do with children at the Palace.
Festive afternoon tea. ©
Christmas Afternoon Tea
Visit the Café at the Palace in the historic Mews courtyard, where you can can enjoy homemade mince pies, Christmas cake and mulled wine.
Treat yourself to a Christmas-themed afternoon tea: our hand-crafted treats will serve as the perfect indulgence to share with friends and family. We advise booking in advance, which can be done online.
Gift ideas
Gift ideas
This year we have a wide selection of new products for Christmas, including festive home accessories, charming tree decorations, food hall favourites and luxury hampers. Browse for Christmas gift inspiration in the Castle shops or pick your favourites in our online shop.
