The History of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Palace Where the Queen's Coffin Rests

Following her death on September 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin was transported from Balmoral Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland. While Balmoral was the Queen’s longtime private residence and beloved summer estate, Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland. Here’s a look into a few chapters of its storied history.

12th Century Roots

Holyroodhouse was first conceived as an Augustinian monastery in 1128 by King David I, and named for the estate’s oldest relic, a holy cross.

The palace was then home to Mary, Queen of Scots, during her tumultuous rule–she married both of her Scottish husbands on Holyroodhouse grounds. She also witnessed the murder of her secretary and longtime confidante David Rizzio in her private palace apartments. Oliver Cromwell's troops occupied and vandalized Holyroodhouse during the Civil War, necessitating massive restoration in 1671.

Modern Updates

King George V made significant updates to the palace in the early 20th century, calling on the talents of Scottish architect Sir William Bruce to transform the estate into the modernized palace we see today. He is responsible for the central heating, electric lighting, new bathrooms and modern kitchen appliances, as well as the installation of an elevator at the estate. King George V also began hosting annual garden parties at Holyroodhouse, a now centuries-old tradition at the palace.

Holyroodhouse boasts 289 rooms, the most elaborate of which include the King’s bedchamber and the late Mary Queen of Scots’ private apartments. Lush gardens make up 10 acres of the estate, set within the larger Holyrood Park. You can still visit the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey, which sits across from an elaborate statue of Edward VII.

Holyrood Traditions

The Queen would spend one week at Holyroodhouse at the start of each summer, known as "Holyrood Week," usually from late June to early July. One of the tradition’s highlights is one of her famous summer garden parties. While typically open for visitors, the palace is currently closed in consideration of the Queen’s death. Her funeral will take place on Monday 19th September at Westminster Abbey.

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