At the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, across from the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament Building is the home of Scotland’s devolved legislature. Catalan architect Enric Miralles designed its modern forms in steel, oak and granite, a sharp change from the Old Town’s historic streets. Free public access and guided tours give you a chance to see the debating chamber and learn how the Parliament works. Look for the Canongate Wall’s engraved quotations, then take a break beside the ponds or visit the café and gift shop.
A contemporary building at Holyrood
The Scottish Parliament Building stands at the eastern end of the Royal Mile, opposite the Palace of Holyroodhouse and beside Holyrood Park. Its contemporary design sets it apart from the older streets around it. Catalan architect Enric Miralles created the complex using materials including steel, oak and granite. The Parliament officially opened in 2004, and the site had previously been occupied by a brewery.
The building’s appearance is deliberately distinctive, with irregular forms and asymmetrical windows. Some details draw on Scottish art and landscape. The facade’s window shapes, for example, take inspiration from Henry Raeburn’s painting The Skating Minister. The design has prompted different reactions, so seeing the building in person is a good way to form your own view.
Inside the Parliament
The building is both a working parliament and a place visitors can explore. Free tours introduce its architecture and the work carried out there. Tour routes can include the Debating Chamber, a committee room, the Garden Lobby and an MSP’s office. Tours last around an hour, and advance booking is recommended.
Public areas also include an exhibition about the Scottish Parliament. In the debating chamber, Members of the Scottish Parliament meet to discuss issues and decisions affecting Scotland. If you want to watch parliamentary business, tickets may be available for debates or committee meetings. Access to particular areas can depend on the parliamentary schedule, so consider visiting during a recess if seeing more of the public spaces is your priority.
Details to look for outside
The Canongate Wall is built from Aberdeen granite blocks engraved with quotations from Scottish writers. Across the facade, the windows form an asymmetrical pattern, while the complex’s varied shapes and use of natural materials give it a very different character from the traditional buildings nearby.
The ponds beside the entrance make a place to stop outdoors, and the surrounding setting connects the Parliament with Holyrood Park and the hills beyond. Inside, the café and gift shop add options for a longer visit. Allow time for the security check at the entrance before joining a tour or exploring the public areas.
FAQ
Is the Scottish Parliament Building free to visit?
Yes. Entry to the public areas and guided tours are free. A security check is required.
How long is a guided tour?
Guided tours last about an hour. Booking ahead is recommended.
Can you see the debating chamber?
The chamber is included on some guided tours, and public access can depend on the parliamentary schedule. Tickets may be available to attend debates or committee meetings.
Where is the Scottish Parliament Building?
It is at Horse Wynd, at the foot of the Royal Mile, across from the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
