Edinburgh Neighbourhoods: Holyrood

At the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile lies Holyrood, a district steeped in Scottish history and royal heritage. Dominated by the magnificent Holyrood Palace, the King’s official residence in Scotland, and the bold contemporary architecture of the Scottish Parliament, this area perfectly embodies Scotland’s blend of traditional and modern. The dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags creates a stunning natural frame for the historic neighbourhood. In autumn and winter, when the mists roll in from the Forth, there’s no better time to wrap up in cosy Scottish knitwear and explore the cobbled streets, rolling hills and hidden closes of this atmospheric corner of Edinburgh.

Holyrood Park is a an area of the city still claimed by nature which offers a pop of Scottish wilderness in the heart of the city. The famous Arthur’s Seat, the remains of a volcano, and the towering Salisbury Crags are a gorgeous focal point that can be seen from all over the city. And the views from the top are stunning! Arthur’s Seat in particular offers a 360 degree view of Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The history of Holyrood is deeply intertwined with Scotland’s royal and religious past. The name “Holyrood” comes from “Holy Rood” (meaning Holy Cross), and dates back to 1128 when King David I founded Holyrood Abbey. According to legend, the king was inspired to build the abbey after having a vision of a cross between a stag’s antlers while hunting in the area.

The Abbey became one of Scotland’s most important religious houses, and Holyrood Palace developed alongside it as a royal residence. Mary Queen of Scots lived here in the 16th century and some of the most dramatic episodes of her reign took place within these walls, including the murder of her secretary David Rizzio in 1566.

The area’s royal connections continued through the centuries. Bonnie Prince Charlie held court at Holyrood Palace during the Jacobite Rising of 1745, and today the Palace remains a working royal residence where the monarch holds official ceremonies, garden parties and stays himself during his official visits to Edinburgh. Visit to get a glimpse of the Royal lives that took place within these walls, view famous portraits in the gallery, stop for afternoon tea in the cafe or browse the beautiful gift shop.

The modern era brought significant change to the Holyrood area when the new Scottish Parliament building opened in 2004, opposite the historic palace. This once again made Holyrood a centre of Scottish political power, just as it had been centuries ago. The Parliament’s innovative design by Catalan architect Enric Miralles deliberately incorporated elements inspired by the surrounding landscape and Scottish heritage. Free tours are available along with exhibitions, talks, a cafe and a gift shop.  The juxtaposition of the historic palace and abbey, the modern parliament and the natural beauty of the park are a real talking point amongst locals and tourists so you can decide which side of the debate you land on!

Nestled between the park and the Parliament building is the fabulous Dynamic Earth Science Centre and Planetarium, which offers a look at the natural history of Scotland. You enter via a time travelling elevator that takes you back 15,000 million years in time and explore the creation of the earth, a real iceberg, a tropical rainforest, 360 degree interactive galleries and a planetarium as well as different exhibitions, cafes and shops. Perfect for older kids and inquisitive adults!

If you’d like to read more about the Holyrood area of Edinburgh why not take a look at :

Holyrood Park by Historic Environment Scotland

The Palace of Holyrood House by the Royal Collection Trust

Highlights of the History of Holyrood Palace by the Royal Collection Trust

Visit the Scottish Parliament by The Scottish Parliament

History of the Scottish Parliament by The Scottish Parliament

Dynamic Earth