The Palace of Holyroodhouse

In the heart of Edinburgh, on the main street of the capital, stands Holyrood Palace, the former residence of Scottish kings. In the 12th century on the site first built the monastery. Already in the 15th century it was crowned with the royals and the coronation was performed. It was only in the early 16th century abbey near the castle appeared.

Unfortunately, the building of the abbey to the present day has been preserved. In the 18th century its roof collapsed, and now the north side of Holyrood Palace can be seen the ruins of the once mighty abbey.

Today Holyrood Palace - is a working residence of the Queen in Scotland. Here Elizabeth II stops when traveling on business, conducts official meetings and appoints the First Minister of Scotland. The rest of the palace is open to tourists, from which there is no release. After all, this is a unique opportunity to look at your private royal apartments. Interesting to visit the throne room, where they still are knighted. Become a knight of the Order of the Thistle - is the main state award in Scotland. Also worth a look at the quarters of the famous Queen Mary Stuart, where she lived with her husband.

If you visit the palace in the summer, there is an additional opportunity to stroll through the royal garden and listen to stories about the royals.

From the train station in Edinburgh Palace is a 15-minute walk away. Also, can be reached by bus number 35 and 36 stop right in front of the entrance to the palace. Visit the residence can be every day from April to October from 9:30 to 18:00 (the last group comes in 16:30), from November to March open from 9:30 to 16:30 (the last group comes in 15:15). The excursion lasts 1-1.5 hours. For an adult ticket costs about 20 pounds, children under 5 years - free of charge.