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Edinburgh, United Kingdom

The King's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse

4
1 Hour
from£11.00 p.p.

Overview

View the ever-changing displays from the Royal Collection, which include unique furniture, decorative arts, old master paintings, and photos from the extensive picture collection. Learn what the fashion of the eighteenth century, a time of revolutionary trade, travel, and technological advancements that influenced trends in fashion at all societal levels, may teach us about living in Britain. Explore the world of Georgian fashion and get up close and personal with exquisite artwork by Gainsborough, Zoffany, and Hogarth, as well as opulent textiles, brilliant jewellery, and a variety of accessories like swords and snuff boxes.

Highlights

  • See the King's Gallery's seasonal exhibits.
  • View stunning sculptures and paintings.
  • Explore the Buckingham Palace Masterpieces exhibition.
  • Combine with a trip to the Holyroodhouse Palace

Itinerary

Discover one of Edinburgh’s most fascinating cultural landmarks with this immersive and historically rich tour experience.

Begin your visit at The King’s Gallery, a striking venue housed within the restored shell of the former Holyrood Free Church and the Duchess of Gordon’s School. Officially opened in 2002 by Queen Elizabeth II, the gallery showcases an extraordinary rotating selection of masterpieces from the Royal Collection. Before entering, take a moment to admire the grand Scottish craftsmanship of the entrance—featuring solid oak doors, gleaming gilded bronze hinges, and the iconic heraldic lion of Scotland perched proudly above.

Continue your journey into the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Step inside to explore the opulent State Apartments, where highlights include the Throne Room, the elegant Privy Chamber, the vast Great Gallery, and the richly adorned King’s Bedchamber—the most impressive room in the palace.

Delve deeper into Scotland’s dramatic past as you visit the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots, located in the oldest part of the palace. Walk through the historic Supper Room, the site of the infamous murder of her secretary, David Rizzio, orchestrated by her husband and a group of nobles. Remarkably, traces of this chilling event are still visible today.

Your ticket also grants access to the atmospheric ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the beautifully landscaped Palace Gardens, offering a tranquil contrast to the palace’s grand interiors.

Enhance your visit with the special exhibition, *The Edwardians: Age of Elegance* (24 April – 6 December 2026). This captivating showcase brings to life the glamour and sophistication of two of Britain’s most stylish royal couples—King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, alongside King George V and Queen Mary. Featuring over 150 exquisite objects, the exhibition includes fine fashion, paintings, rare books, and personal treasures such as jewellery, photographs, and decorative chinaware—many displayed in Scotland for the very first time. Admire works by renowned names like Fabergé, Tiffany & Co., and Edward Burne-Jones, and gain insight into a golden era defined by elegance, global influence, and artistic excellence.

This curated itinerary offers a perfect blend of royal heritage, architectural beauty, and world-class art—ideal for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Inclusions

  • Entry to the King's Gallery

Opening times:

  • 24 Apr to 07 Sep 2026:Daily, 09:30 to 18:00 (last admission 17:00)
  • 10 Sep to 31 Oct 2026:Thu-Mon, 09:30 to 18:00 (last admission 17:00)
  • 01 Nov to 06 Dec 2026:Thu-Mon, 09:30 to 16:30 (last admission 15:30)
  • Duration: 1 Hour
  • Location: Canongate The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX.

  • Travellers must exchange their booking voucher.
  • Your booking voucher will expire after you exchange it for a ticket.
  • The company or tour operator will not provide a refund if ticket is misplaced.

  • Complimentary multimedia guide will be provided.
  • There is a cloakroom for large bags and items.
  • Pushchairs are allowed inside the Gallery, except during busy periods. Baby carriers and hip seats are available on request.
  • The Gallery is fully accessible.

 

  • To get the full refund, you must cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the activity/tour start time.
  • If you cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the activity/ tour start time, you will not get any refund.
  • Modifications/ changes are allowed at least 24 hours before the activity/ tour start time.
  • You must contact us through email. The activity/tour's local start time determines the cut-off times.

  • There may be unexpected changes in the timetable due to public holidays, weather conditions, or other unanticipated situations. During major events, summer vacations, and weekends, the city will be quite busy.
  • We will do everything we can to provide a smooth and consistent service! In such cases, no reimbursement is allowed.
  • Tours run regardless of the weather. Weather-related refunds will not be issued unless the service is discontinued due to inclement weather.
  • The service provider preserves the right to amend or cancel the itinerary due to city events or force majeure.

Customer Reviews

4.6

based on 1757 reviews

Rating Distribution

5 stars
1275
4 stars
302
3 stars
112
2 stars
63
1 stars
5

"The bus saved time and covered all key landmarks. Clean buses, clear audio commentary, and flexible boarding made the trip smooth and enjoyable."

"Convenient stops near famous places with helpful guides onboard. A relaxing and affordable way to discover the city without worrying about transportation."

"Long waiting times between buses ruined our schedule. Staff seemed unhelpful, and several stops were skipped without any proper explanation."

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to common questions about our tours and booking process.

No, it is not wheelchair accessible
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice
The tour includes a professional local guide and entrance to Recoleta Cemetery.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice.
Unless there is a natural disaster, tours/activities take place even if it rains. Tours that include navigation services might be subjected to the current conditions of the river. If the supplier considers that those conditions are not safe enough, the navigation might be cancelled without prior notice.
Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most centrally located hotels in Buenos Aires.
No. The tour is mostly done by vehicle, with only short walks and photo stops.

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