Palace of Holyroodhouse

The splendid Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh is The Queen’s official residence in Scotland and was originally founded as an Augustinian monastery in 1128 by David I. As the Abbey prospered and Edinburgh became recognised as the Scottish capital, a succession of Royals chose to live here at Holyroodhouse rather than at Edinburgh Castle in the city. James IV added the palace to the abbey during his stay from 1488 to 1513 and his successor, James V, added two massive towers during the early part of the 16th century. The residence has a rich history and was also the home of Mary, Queen of Scots who spent a turbulent time there from 1561 to 1567. After a brief period out of favour with the royals, life at Holyroodhouse was reinvigorated with the arrival of Queen Victoria who initiated an extensive renovation process. Today, the palace is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland (with the Queen’s official Holyrood Week traditionally spanning the end of June and the start of July during which she hosts the annual Holyrood Garden Party) that attracts thousands of tourists each year. The largest room in the palace is the spectacular Great Gallery used for banquets and official occasions. Other attractions include the State Apartments, Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers and the Queen’s Gallery.