At the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, Holyrood Abbey is a medieval ruin founded by King David I in 1128. Its Gothic arches, stone walls and historic gravestones create a quiet place to pause beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Look for the surviving Norman doorway in the southeast corner and the royal burial vault, where King David II and King James V were laid to rest. Abbey entry is included with a Palace ticket, or you can visit the abbey separately.
Founded by King David I
King David I founded Holyrood Abbey in 1128. The church later served in part as a royal residence, and the Scottish Parliament met here from the 13th to the 15th centuries. The abbey’s history is tied to Scottish royal and political life, including the birth and coronation of kings and the end of the First War of Scottish Independence.
The ruins preserve original architectural details from the 12th and 13th centuries. In the southeast corner, look for the doorway that remains from the original Norman church.
The royal burial vault
The abbey’s Royal Vault is the burial place of several members of the royal family. Among them are King David II, buried here in 1371, and King James V, buried here in 1542.
The ruins stand next to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, at the end of the Royal Mile. Visiting both gives you a view of the abbey’s medieval remains alongside the palace’s royal rooms and gardens.
Planning a visit
Entry to the abbey is included with a ticket to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and separate visits to the abbey are also possible. Tickets in advance are recommended for the Palace. The site has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking, and restrooms are available.
The ground among the ruins can be uneven, so choose comfortable shoes. Daylight makes it easier to see the stonework and take photographs. Early morning or later in the evening can be quieter.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Holyrood Abbey?
It is at the end of the Royal Mile in Canongate, beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Is entry to Holyrood Abbey included with a Palace ticket?
Yes. Abbey entry is included with a ticket to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Separate visits are also possible.
What should I look for at Holyrood Abbey?
Look for the surviving Norman doorway in the southeast corner and the Royal Vault, where King David II and King James V were buried.
Is Holyrood Abbey wheelchair accessible?
The site has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking.
