The Queen's Gallery Edinburgh
Discover exquisite art and antiquities from the Royal Collection in a serene Victorian setting, featuring rotating special exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Current exhibition ends soon!
The Queen's Gallery Edinburgh
Best Time
Current exhibition ends soon!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite art and antiquities from the Royal Collection in a serene Victorian setting, featuring rotating special exhibitions.
"A peaceful little pocket of art and culture right in the heart of Edinburgh."
Check Exhibition Dates
Exhibitions change; verify current displays and end dates before your visit.
Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your understanding with the free audio guide for a richer experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Collection Treasures
Main exhibition space
Discover exquisite art and antiquities from the vast Royal Collection, showcasing centuries of royal patronage and artistry.
Changing Special Exhibitions
Main exhibition space
Experience unique, curated displays that highlight specific themes or periods from the Royal Collection, always offering something new.
Elegant Victorian Setting
Within the gallery building
Appreciate the art within a beautifully presented, calm, and elegant Victorian building, enhancing the viewing experience.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Palace Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibition Dates
Exhibitions change; verify current displays and end dates before your visit.
Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your understanding with the free audio guide for a richer experience.
No Photography Allowed
Remember, photography is prohibited inside the gallery to protect the artworks.
Bag Check Required
Be prepared to check your bags before entering the exhibition space.
What art galleries do we have?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibition Dates
Exhibitions change; verify current displays and end dates before your visit.
Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your understanding with the free audio guide for a richer experience.
No Photography Allowed
Remember, photography is prohibited inside the gallery to protect the artworks.
Bag Check Required
Be prepared to check your bags before entering the exhibition space.
Combine with Palace Visit
Consider a combined ticket for Holyroodhouse Palace and the Gallery for a fuller experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Queen's Gallery for its exquisite Royal Collection exhibitions and elegant, intimate setting, offering a peaceful art appreciation experience. While some find it a worthwhile addition to a Palace visit, others feel the £11 entry fee is steep for the size and content, especially if not interested in the specific exhibition. Photography is prohibited, and bag checks are in place.
"The King’s Gallery showcases exquisite treasures from the Royal Collection, offering a glimpse into royal artistry within the elegant setting of Holyroodhouse."
Ali Asghar Aghili
"The King’s Gallery at Holyrood is a real gem. It’s smaller and more intimate than the Palace itself, but that’s what makes it so enjoyable – you can take your time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The exhibitions are beautifully curated and always changing, so there’s something fresh to see each visit.
What I loved is how well presented everything is: the information is clear, interesting and not too wordy, and the setting itself feels calm and elegant. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, really look at the artwork, and appreciate it properly.
It’s definitely worth adding on to a Palace visit – or even popping in on its own if you’re nearby. A peaceful little pocket of art and culture right in the heart of Edinburgh."
Karen Holland
"A wonderful gallery which changes its show every so often. When we were there, it featured the royal family's official photographs. The audio guide really made this come alive. Although it is not a huge gallery, its quality is excellent. Most people appear to skip this element of the Holyrood House--it is an additional ticket; but it really enhances the experience. I don't suppose kids would find this an engaging space. Be ready to check your bags and there is no photography inside."
Aaron Daniels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Queen's Gallery is located at the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the foot of the Royal Mile. You can reach it by walking up the Royal Mile from the city center, or by taking a bus to the Holyrood area.
There is limited parking near the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk, as parking in central Edinburgh can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk down the historic Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where The Queen's Gallery is located. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Queen's Gallery typically requires a separate ticket, with adult prices around £11. It's often recommended to book in advance, especially for special exhibitions.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly for popular exhibitions or during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and current exhibitions. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, The Queen's Gallery is usually a separate ticketed attraction from the Palace of Holyroodhouse, though combined tickets may be available.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions at the time of booking or contact the gallery directly for specific queries regarding cancellations or changes.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside The Queen's Gallery to protect the delicate artworks on display.
Yes, you can generally take photos of the exterior of The Queen's Gallery and the Palace of Holyroodhouse complex. The surrounding area offers great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While The Queen's Gallery itself may not have a dedicated cafe, there are usually facilities within the Palace of Holyroodhouse complex, and numerous cafes and restaurants are available along the Royal Mile nearby.
No, outside food and drinks, including water, are generally not permitted inside The Queen's Gallery to preserve the exhibits.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
A visit to The Queen's Gallery typically takes about 1 hour, depending on your interest level and the specific exhibition.
The Queen's Gallery is more geared towards adults interested in art and history. While children can visit, they might not find the exhibitions as engaging as other attractions.
The gallery showcases rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection, which can include paintings, drawings, photographs, decorative arts, and historical artifacts.
Information on accessibility for visitors with disabilities should be checked on the official website, as facilities can vary.
The Royal Collection is one of the largest and most important art collections in the world, comprising over a million objects owned by the monarch.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Consider purchasing the audio guide to gain deeper insights into the context and stories behind the artworks. Combining your visit with the Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a comprehensive royal experience, but the gallery can also be enjoyed as a standalone cultural stop. Remember that photography is not permitted, so be prepared to immerse yourself fully in the viewing experience.
Day-Trippers to Edinburgh
It's a great option for a quieter, more reflective experience amidst the bustling city. Pair it with a walk along the Royal Mile or a visit to nearby Holyrood Park for a well-rounded day. Remember to check the current exhibition to ensure it aligns with your interests.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Royal Collection
Visitors can expect to see works that have rarely, if ever, been on public display. The gallery's intimate setting allows for a close and personal appreciation of these treasures, making the experience feel both exclusive and educational. The quality of the exhibitions is consistently high, with clear and informative displays that enhance understanding without overwhelming the viewer.
It's important to note that the exhibitions change periodically, so checking the gallery's schedule is crucial for planning your visit. This dynamic approach ensures that The Queen's Gallery remains a compelling destination for repeat visitors and art enthusiasts alike, offering a continuous stream of royal artistry and historical insights.
The Art of Royal Photography
The curation of such exhibitions is expert, often accompanied by an audio guide that brings the images and their context to life. This allows visitors to delve deeper into the stories behind the lens, understanding the historical significance and artistic merit of royal photography. It's a testament to how art, in various forms, has always played a role in documenting and shaping the perception of the monarchy.
These photographic exhibitions are a reminder that the Royal Collection is not just about traditional art forms but also embraces more modern mediums. They offer a fascinating contrast to the historical paintings and artifacts, showcasing the breadth of royal artistic engagement across different eras.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit