Holyrood House, Edinburgh - Wee Guides to Scotland castles and mansions

Wee Guides to Scotland
Holyrood House, Edinburgh

Goblinshead

130 Inveresk Rd
Musselburgh
EH21 7AY
SCOTLAND

Holyroodhouse consists of ranges of buildings surrounding a rectangular courtyard, one of which dates from the 16th century, and was built out of the guest house of the Abbey. The palace was rebuilt in the late 17th century, a new block being built to balance the original range. The building was remodelled and extended by Sir William Bruce for Charles II in 1671-8. Original 16th-century interiors survive in the old block, and the ruins of the abbey church adjoin. Holyrood Abbey was founded by David I around 1128 although it was sacked in 1322 and 1385 by the English. James III found the guest range of the abbey a comfortable alternative to Edinburgh castle, and James IV and James V extended the building. The English burnt the abbey in 1544 and 1547. David Rizzio, Mary, Queen of Scots's secretary was murdered here in her presence by men including her husband, Lord Darnley. Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed here in 1745. The palace is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Fine interiors. Collections of pictures and furniture.

Directions:	Off A1, in Edinburgh.
Ownership:	Pri/LA	0131 556 1096	Ord. Survey Map Ref:	NT 269739 66
Open:	Open all year except when monarch is in residence, Good Friday, and 25/26 December.
Key:	P Nearby S £	Click Here for explanation of Key and other abreviations

Fax:+44 (0) 131 653 6566 Tel: +44 (0) 131 665 2894
email:goblinshead@sol.co.uk