The Palace of Holyroodhouse has been a residence of the Kings and Queens of Scotland since the 15th century.

The Palace stands in at the bottom of the Royal Mile and the ancient Abbey of the Palace has been the site of many royal coronations. The Palace is arguably one of the most important not only in Scotland, but Europe and has been home to many famous in influential monarchs.

The north-west tower was once occupied by Mary, Queen of Scots and the wooden ceilings of the main rooms are from Mary’s time, as are shields commemorating Mary’s marriage to Francis II of France. Hundreds of years later the palace also became home of the French Royal Family exiled during the French Revolution.

The present Queen still uses it when she visits Scotland for State occasions while the Place is also frequented by Prince Charles and the Princess Anne. The Queen’s Gallery is located within the Palace complex, while the new Scottish Parliament Building is located across the road from the palace.

During times when the Queen or another member of the Royal Family is not in residence, it is open to the public and is a must see for any history buff who travels to Edinburgh .