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The Scottish Parliament

Visit the award-winning Scottish Parliament building in the heart of the Edinburgh Old Town World Heritage Site. Open Monday to Friday, admission free.

The Scottish Parliament is open to all visitors, Monday - Friday.  Free to visit.  Tours, Shop and Parliament Café.

Visit the home of Scottish democracy - enter the Debating Chamber and see parliament in action (usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) or enjoy a free guided tour of the building (Mondays and Fridays).  During recess dates, tours are usually available Monday - Friday, but visitors should contact us to check before arriving.

  Entry to the Parliament building and Guided Tours is free. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and include aspects of the parliament's architecture and design, how parliament works and some of the art collection.  The Scottish Parliament is usually currently open to visitors Monday to Friday .  If you are short of time, join one of our regular 10 Minute Talks in our Main Hall - a great introduction to the Parliament.  We also host a series of events and visiting exhibitions every year - full details can be found on our website.

During our February recess and over the Christmas period, the building will be closed to the public.  If you are planning to visit around this time it is advisable to contact us to check the dates.  Parliamentary events may mean some services are not available.  We strongly recommend booking in advance for our very popular tours, as these can become fully booked very quickly.

Our Accessibility Gu ide can be found here .  Changing places toilet and hoist and accessible tours available .  Contact Visitor Services for further details.

(The images used on this page are courtesy of The Scottish Parliament - © Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body 2005).  

Transport and Parking

• On Public Transport Route
• Taxi rank nearby
• Public Parking Nearby

Accessibility

• Hearing Loop
• Lift or stairlift
• Large print, braille or audio
• Ramp to main entrance
• Wheelchairs or mobility aids provided
• Level access to all public areas
• Partially suitable for visitors with limited mobility
• Suitable for visitors with limited mobility
• Level access to main entrance
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Level access to dining room, cafe or restaurant
• Tactile route for visitors with visual impairments
• Level Access
• Level access from entrance to reception
• Accessible toilets
• Access guide

Dietary Options

• Baby Changing Facilities
• Public Toilet Facilities
• Lunch Available
• Picnic Area
• Cafe or Restaurant
• City Centre

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Out About Scotland

The Scottish Parliament Building Visitor Guide

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The Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh’s Old Town is one of the most controversial and fascinating places in the city. The building is located in a prime position in the city centre opposite Holyrood Palace where it commands a striking view of Holyrood Park and The Royal Mile.

Discover the history of the Scottish Parliament building along with an overview of what it’s like to visit with this complete visitor guide.

The Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh is home to the Scottish government and is also a fascinating example of modern architecture.

Situated at the bottom of The Royal Mile on 4 acres of land, the building is in an unparalleled location for the seat of Scottish politics, with the stunning royal palace of Holyroodhouse directly opposite and the monumental peaks of Holyrood Park just a few minute’s walk away.

Even though it’s a relatively new addition to Edinburgh’s 1,000 years of history, it has one of the most intriguing stories of anywhere in the capital.

The Parliament of Scotland has been making legislature for hundreds of years, from the time when the old Scottish Parliament building was located in the chamber of the Court of Session on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

However, the operations of the Scottish Parliament were interrupted by the 1707 Treaty of Union which incorporated the parliaments of England and Scotland with a central government based in London.

This movement of power from Edinburgh to London lasted 290 years until a public referendum in 1997 approved the reinstatement of the Scottish Parliament which, in turn, led to the creation of the new Scottish Parliament building we see today.

Although it’s a working place for the government, visitors are welcome to view the interior on free guided tours that explain how the building is used, its architect, and how the design reflects Scotland’s proud history and its place in the modern world.

The Highlights

1: Scottish Parliament building tours are free and allow visitors to see parliamentary business taking place while learning about the history of the building, its design, and how it is used by MPs. It’s also possible to see the interior of the building on a self-guided tour.

2: Visitors can watch live debates in progress from the balcony of the debating chamber. The actual content of the debate may not be of interest to many visitors but it’s worth spending a few minutes to see how debates are run.

3: Aside from the fact that entry and tours are completely free, the location of the Scottish Parliament building means it’s worth adding to every Edinburgh sightseeing itinerary. Within a few minutes walk are Holyrood Palace and Holyrood Park – two of the city’s top attractions.

Visiting Tips

1: Entry to the public can be cancelled at a moment’s notice for security and other concerns (Covid-19 for example) so it’s best to check the Scottish Parliament website for updates before leaving home.

2: Speaking of security, it’s very tight at the Scottish Parliament building so be prepared to be searched and have your belongings checked before entering.

3: The facilities are very good and include a café, a shop, and even a crèche, and there are lots of information booklets to read through in addition to the helpful tour guides. As far as the café is concerned though, the one across the road at Holyrood Palace is a wee bit nicer for tourists.

Tourist Information

The Scottish Parliament building is in use daily with more than 1000 permanent staff assisting 129 MSPs, and it’s one of the few places where the public can experience the inner workings of a nation’s government.

Visitors enter via a security gate at the entrance opposite Holyrood Palace, after which they are free to either explore the building or join a free guided tour.

The tours are highly recommended as they explain the architecture, art, and history of the building before viewing the main debating chamber which has a separate gallery seating area for 300 members of the public.

The debating chamber is arguably the highlight of a visit as it’s an amazing space – especially the roof which manages to span 100 feet without requiring a single supporting column – and is a testament to Scotland’s engineering prowess.

However, from the very beginning there was a lot of controversy about the building’s unusual architecture as well as its budget which soared to a ten-fold increase on its original estimate, partly due to the choice of location.

Initially, three sites around Edinburgh were considered, but a last-minute entry from the Scottish and Newcastle brewery eventually won favour with the city council due to its position in the heart of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This location perfectly sums up Scotland, with the natural beauty of Holyrood Park to one side and the historic Holyrood Palace directly opposite, bordered by The Royal Mile which eventually leads to Scotland’s biggest tourist attraction at Edinburgh Castle.

On non-sitting days (usually Monday, Friday, and weekends), visitors can view the main hall, the public galleries of the debating chamber, and the main committee rooms, while guided tours offer access to the floor of the main hall, the garden lobby, and committee rooms.

The History of the Scottish Parliament Building

Although the location of the Scottish Parliament building was initially welcomed by the general public, the design was not.

The building began with an international competition in 1998 to find a suitable architect, and the Spanish designer Enric Miralles was eventually chosen.

Although many people were in favour of Miralles’ abstract designs, the Scottish Parliament building costs spiralled from an initial estimate of £40 million to a staggering £430 million by the time it was finished in 2004 – three years behind schedule.

Sadly, Miralles died in 2000 so he didn’t live to see his creation opened to the public, but he would no doubt be happy to know that in the first 6 months over a quarter of a million people visited the Scottish Parliament building, and today it’s one of Edinburgh’s most-visited attractions.

Discover more places to visit in Edinburgh with: The Best Places to Visit in Edinburgh – The Ultimate Guide .

Things to Do

Visit the Public Debates : Watch public debates and committee meetings from the public gallery to get an insight into Scotland’s political procedures. Observe politicians as they discuss and make decisions on the issues affecting Scotland.

Explore the Architecture : Marvel at the unique structure of the Scottish Parliament Building. Designed by Enric Miralles, the building features symbolic representations of Scotland’s landscape, people, and history.

Join a Guided Tour : Take a free guided tour to learn about the function and history of the Scottish Parliament. Guided tours provide in-depth information about its role, its day-to-day operations, and the architecture of the building.

Check out the Exhibition : Visit the Parliament’s exhibition to learn more about its history and how politics has helped to shape Scotland into the country it is today. The interactive displays make it an interesting visit for all ages.

Relax in the Parliament Cafe : After exploring the building, relax in the Parliament’s café. It’s a good place to enjoy a cup of coffee before heading back outside to view the nearby Holyrood Park and Holyrood Palace.

Architectural Marvel : The Scottish Parliament Building was designed by the late Spanish architect Enric Miralles, one of the most innovative architects of his generation. It officially opened on 9 October 2004.

Symbolic Design : The design of the building was inspired by the surrounding Scottish landscape, the upturned boats on the seashore, and the flower paintings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. These elements were incorporated into the design to create a building that is deeply rooted in Scottish culture and heritage.

Sustainable Building : The Scottish Parliament Building is a model of sustainable design. It uses natural ventilation, daylight, and locally sourced materials to reduce its environmental impact.

Award-Winning Structure : The Scottish Parliament Building has won numerous awards for its architecture, including the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2005.

Controversy and Criticism : The construction of the building was not without controversy. It faced criticism for its cost, which was £431 million – up from an initial estimate of £40 million.

Artistic Touch : The building incorporates several works of art by prominent artists, including a bronze bust by Eduardo Paolozzi and woodcuts made by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Unique Features : The building includes several unique features, such as the ‘thinking pods’ – small, round rooms that stick out from the main building.

Things to Do Nearby

Holyrood Park . Edinburgh EH8 8AZ. 2-minute walk. One of the largest city parks in the world, Holyrood Park covers an area of more than 650 acres. The highest point in the park is Arthur’s Seat which is a long-extinct volcanic plug. Popular areas to visit are Salisbury Crags and Duddingston Loch.

Holyrood Palace . Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8DX. 1-minute walk. Holyrood palace is HM The Queen’s official residence in Scotland. The palace is open to visitors who can explore the royal rooms on a self-guided tour. Tickets include a visit to The Queen’s Gallery and Holyrood Abbey.

Dynamic Earth . Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS. 4-minute walk. A family-oriented science-themed attraction that aims to educate and entertain visitors with a collection of displays and exhibits. There is a café on-site, a 360-degree cinema, a café and more.

Calton Hill . Edinburgh EH7 5AA. 17-minute walk. One of the most popular free attractions in Edinburgh. Calton Hill offers superb views across the city and is home to the recently renovated observatory and restaurant. There are several monuments on Calton Hill including Nelson’s Monument – a tower that can be climbed – and the National Monument of Scotland.

The Royal Mile . 1-minute walk. Historic street in Edinburgh that connects Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Mile is famed for its medieval architecture and narrow closes and wynds. The Royal Mile is home to a wide selection of tourist attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the scottish parliament held.

The Scottish Parliament is held in the Scottish Parliament building in the Holyrood area of Edinburgh, Scotland. Address: Edinburgh, EH99 1SP.

What style is the Scottish Parliament building?

The Scottish Parliament building was designed in the Deconstructivist style. The structure was built using steel, oak, concrete and granite. It was designed to look like it’s growing out of the land and the first drawings took inspiration from a tree branch.

Who designed the Scottish Parliament building?

The Scottish Parliament building was designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles. The first design was created in 1998 but the building didn’t open until 2004. Enric Miralles died in 2000.

How much did the Scottish Parliament cost?

The original estimate for the construction of the Scottish Parliament building was between £10 million and £40 million. The final cost exceeded the estimate by 10 times at £414 million.

Is the Scottish Parliament free to visit?

There is no entry cost to visit the Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh. Visitors must adhere to security checks upon entering after which they can walk around part of the building to see the debating chamber and other areas. There are also free guided tours that can be joined throughout the day.

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By Craig Neil

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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Scottish Parliament

The Parliament is situated on the bottom of the Royal Mile , on the land previously owned by the brewing company Scottish and Newcastle. 

Located beside the Palace of Holyroodhouse and built in 2004, the new Scottish Parliament building represents the recovery of the legislative power by the Scots after three centuries of union with the United Kingdom.

Architecture

The new Scottish Parliament building was opened on 7 September 2004 after over five years of construction. The Parliament was designed by the Spanish architect, Enric Millares who died four years before it was inaugurated.

The creation was criticised for numerous reasons, principally because its final cost was ten times higher than initial estimates . Another aspect which displeased many citizens, media and politicians was the modern design of the building, making it stand out on the Royal Mile.

Visiting the Scottish Parliament

Depending on when you go, it is sometimes possible to get a guided tour of the building or attend Parliament debates from the public gallery of the Debating Chamber.

A guided tour of the Parliament is available from Monday to Saturday in the morning (from 10:30 am to 12 noon) and in the afternoon (2 pm – 3 pm) . During this guided tour, you will visit the Debating Chamber, the dramatic vaults of the Main Hall and other interesting rooms. If you are interested, we recommend booking in advance on the Scottish Parliament official website because tours are subject to availability.

As well as visiting the main rooms of the Parliament, by yourself or with a guide, tourists can also visit the Parliament shop, café and Parliament Exhibition.

If you have enough time

Although the Scottish Parliament building is free and unique, we recommend only visiting this attraction if you have enough time and have seen Edinburgh's top monuments and attractions first. 

Horse Wynd, at the foot of the Royal Mile

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 9 am – 6:30 pm Monday, Friday and Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm (When Parliament is in Recess) Public holidays: 10 am – 5 pm

Buses : Scottish Parliament , 36; Abbeyhill Crescent , 35.

Nearby places

Our Dynamic Earth (178 m) Palace of Holyroodhouse (191 m) Museum of Edinburgh (311 m) The People’s Story Museum (330 m) Calton Hill (585 m)

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• Business Bulletin
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How To Find Us

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• Coronavirus: advice to visitors

The Scottish Parliament building is located in the Holyrood area of central Edinburgh at the foot of the Royal Mile, on Horse Wynd, opposite the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The map below shows the location of the Parliament building.  Selecting 'View Larger Map' will open Google Maps which has the option to get directions from your current location to the Parliament.

Getting to Holyrood by bus

Visitors can use the Lothian Buses service numbers 35 (nearest stop Canongate).

There are a number of other bus routes a short walking distance away. Details of all local bus services can be obtained from Traveline .

Getting to Holyrood by train

The Parliament building is a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station. Information about train services to and from Edinburgh is available from National Rail .

Getting to Holyrood by road

Our postcode is EH99 1SP.

The nearest car parks are St John’s Hill or adjacent to Waverley Station, via New Street.

A small number of public parking spaces are reserved for disabled people on Horse Wynd . Please note that these parking bays are for visitors to the Holyrood area in general, not just for visitors to the Parliament. These parking bays are owned and managed by the City of Edinburgh Council and can be used by all blue badge holders. There is, therefore, no guarantee that a space will be available. You may wish to contact the  City of Edinburgh Council  for further information about these spaces. 

Parking for people with a disabled person’s parking permit is permitted on single yellow lines and these are available near to the Parliament building. 

if you are attending a parliamentary event and require further information about parking arrangements please get in touch with the event organiser

Coach drivers must use the turning circle in front of Our Dynamic Earth on Holyrood Road for drop off and pick up of passengers. Coaches may stop here for up to 15 minutes. This is the only facility for coaches to drop off and pick up passengers. Coach parking is available at Regent Road. It is a short walk to the Parliament's public entrance from Our Dynamic Earth. Visitors should turn right as they come out of the turning circle and use the walkway through the landscaped area to reach the public entrance on Horse Wynd.

Pick up and drop off points for visitors with mobility access needs

If you require to be dropped off or collected when visiting the Scottish Parliament you can use the turning circle at Dynamic Earth. It may be possible to use the parking bays on Horse Wynd as a drop off and pick up point, but waiting in the bays is not permitted and the usage of the bays for this purpose is subject to their availability. These parking bays are owned and managed by the City of Edinburgh Council and can be used by all blue badge holders. There is, therefore, no guarantee that a space will be available You may wish to contact the City of Edinburgh Council for further information about these spaces.

Getting to Holyrood by cycle

The nearest public cycle racks are located next to the Holyrood Lodge house building on Horse Wynd.

Contact Visitor Services

For information about visiting, tours and booking tickets for debates email [email protected]

0131 348 5200 or freephone 0800 092 7600

Transport options

• Lothian Buses
• Traveline Scotland
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Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Known sometimes as "The Athens of the North" or "Auld Reekie," the Scottish capital is one of the country's most popular destinations, and is a great place to spend a long weekend or to include in a larger Scotland itinerary . Edinburgh is relatively compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see and do in this historic and culturally vibrant capital, including exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting one of the city's top museums, going on a nearby hike, or hitting up the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whether you are looking to explore Edinburgh's food and bar scene or to travel back in time through its history, here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Do keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season; if you want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip for either May or September. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing.
• Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland and the rest of the U.K. However, because Edinburgh is a fairly large, international city, you may hear other languages spoken around town. Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.
• Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling , which is also known as GBP or just "the pound." Cents are known as pence.
• Getting Around : While Edinburgh is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center, there are good public transportation options, including the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Taxis and Ubers are also available. Car rentals are another option, though we don't recommend driving or parking in the city center of Edinburgh.
• Travel Tip : Make your visit to Edinburgh part of a larger exploration of Scotland, taking advantage of the trains if you prefer not to drive through the winding roads. Glasgow is less than an hour away from Edinburgh, while Dundee and St. Andrews are a quick journey north. But you don't have to pick just the bigger destinations to better understand Scottish culture. Nearby, look for day trips to the Scottish Borders, North Berwick and Stirling, when planning an itinerary.

Things to Do

Edinburgh has a lot of history, culture, and art available to explore, as well as expansive shopping areas. Touring Edinburgh Castle , one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, is a must-do for all visitors, as is hiking Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Edinburgh. Another popular attraction is Palace of Holyroodhouse; the Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II, it welcomes visitors whenever the British Royal Family is not in town. Here are some of the top things to do during your trip to Edinburgh:

• Tour The National Art Gallery of Scotland ; consisting of three galleries, this vast art museum showcases works from both Scotland and around the world.
• Dine at The Kitchin , a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that highlights local ingredients.
• Attend the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe , the world's largest arts festival , to see performances ranging from plays and comedy shows to live music.

For more, explore our full-length articles on the top things to do in Edinburgh and the best museums in Edinburgh . And, be sure to check out our guide to spending 48 hours in the Scottish capital .

Iain Masterton/Getty Images 

What to Eat and Drink

Edinburgh is an international city that boasts cuisine from all over the world, but of course you'll want to experience Scottish fare while visiting. Haggis, a meaty pudding cooked in a sheep's stomach, is Scotland's most famous dish and broadly available around Edinburgh, especially at pubs. Other local dishes include Stornoway black pudding, Cullen skink, Cranachan, and smoked salmon. And if you're wanting to imbibe on Scottish whisky, you can sample it at any number of places, including The Abbey Bar and The Balmoral Whisky Bar .

Because the city is so diverse, travelers will find not just pubs, but also fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky burger joints, and outdoor food stalls. While many restaurants and pubs can be found in the city center, be sure to venture into Leith to try pizza at La Favorita or Scottish-French fusion at Restaurant Martin Wishart .

For more, check out the best restaurants in Edinburgh and our guide to Edinburgh nightlife .

Where to Stay

While each of Edinburgh's 12 neighborhoods is distinctly charming, you might find some more convenient than others depending on your itinerary, Most travelers opt to stay in the city center, which includes the Royal Mile and New Town. Many of the popular hotels, including both chain and boutique options, are located in these two areas alongside the popular attractions and shopping streets. If you prefer to stay somewhere close to the water, look for a hotel or apartment rental in Leith, a cool neighborhood with lots of independent cafés, stores, and bookshops. For something a little off-center, head to Portobello, a seaside resort neighborhood only 20 minutes from central Princes Street. Some iconic Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral , The Witchery by the Castle , The Royal Scots Club , and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh .

Read our roundup of the best hotels in Edinburgh to learn more and find the right accommodation for you.

Getting There

Most international travelers arrive in Edinburgh by flying into Edinburgh Airport , a fairly busy airport with one main terminal. The airport services several cities in the U.S., mostly on the East Coast, as well as Europe and the Middle East. It also has numerous flights that connect from London's Heathrow Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a train from London or one of the U.K.'s other large cities; trains operate regularly and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. If you're driving, be sure to include a GPS in your rental car to help navigate the unfamiliar roads.

Culture and Customs

Tipping isn't as frequent in Scotland as it is in America, but it's still customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, especially when you receive good service. The typical amount is 10 percent, but you can use your best judgment. In a pub, leave a pound or two when ordering drinks at the bar. And while it may be slightly jarring to some visitors, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18.

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

• The best way to save a few bucks is to walk. Edinburgh is a very walkable city and it's central area is compact enough that you shouldn't need a rental car or to take many taxis. Plan out your itinerary to take advantage of walking everywhere you can.
• Many of the museums offer free entry, including The National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, and The Museum on the Mound. Historic cathedrals like St. Giles' Cathedral are also free to enter.
• Tour the Scottish Parliament for a glimpse inside Scotland's political landscape. It's open to the public six days a week and tours are free.
• To save money on meals, pay a visit to one of Edinburgh's food markets. The Pitt Market, which takes place every Saturday in Leith, is one of the most popular. Travelers arriving at Waverley Station will also find more than 40 food stalls at Waverley Market @ Platform 2.
• Two discount attraction passes are available for tourists in Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh Ticket and Edinburgh City Pass .

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Scottish Parliament

Discover the modern Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh

Scotland’s devolved parliament.

When visiting the UK, you might be surprised to discover that Scotland has its own parliament in Edinburgh , separate to the British parliament in Westminster.

This is because in 1997, a referendum was held asking the Scots if they wanted a devolved parliament , allowing them autonomy over certain political decisions, and they voted yes!

Useful Information

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm

Scotland used to have its own parliament, until the Act of Union in 1707 merged it with England’s.

The old building is in Parliament Square , off The Royal Mile , and you can still visit the debating chamber inside, but it now houses the Supreme Courts, so a new building was commissioned after the 1997 referendum.

Modern architecture

If you’re a fan of modern architecture , you will be fascinated by the building, which is actually a complex of connected spaces, whose shapes and forms were inspired by traditional elements of Scotland , but come together to create a contemporary design.

It was designed by architect Enric Miralles, who sadly passed away before he could see his plans completed. It was rather controversial when it was approved , as the modern style doesn’t fit in with the rest of Edinburgh’s Old Town , but it has also won several awards for its design!

It’s also interesting to note that for several years, the new Scottish Parliament held their debates in the General Assembly Room, in New College on the Mound, while waiting for the new building to be completed.

It ended up being finished 3 years late, and cost ten times its initial budget, a grand total of £400 million.

Visiting the new building

As well as admiring its unusual exterior, you can also go inside the parliament , and visit the main rooms of the building.

The highlight is the debating chamber, which you can see empty on days when there are no sessions, or you can go along to attend a debate yourself , which take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

You can also sign up online for a free guided tour of the building , which covers both the architecture of the building, and the history and work of the Parliament itself , or one of their special interests tours.

The parliament building also hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year - check out their website to book a tour, and for details of upcoming events.

If you want to know more about Scottish politics and specially if you are an architecture lover, you should pay a visit to Scottish Parliament . On top, you will be able to visit other interesting places around, like the Palace of Holyrood .

You can find the new parliament building the at lower end of the Royal Mile , on the Canongate section, opposite Holyrood Palace and next to Holyrood Park.

Get directions to the Scottish Parliament.

Related Activities

You will have to pass through security to enter the building, including bag scanners and metal detectors.

Don’t miss...

The design details in the debating chamber, including dramatic wooden beams suspended from the ceiling, and the unusually shaped lecterns the MSPs use.

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Accessibility Guide for The Scottish Parliament

Contact for accessibility enquiries: Visitor Services

Guide last updated: 18 January 2019

• At a glance

Getting here

Getting around inside, getting around outside.

Customer care support

Visit the home of the Scottish Parliament, in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town World Heritage Site.

Free to visit and fully accessible.  Exhibition, Tours, Shop and Parliament Cafe.

Visit the Debating Chamber and see parliament in action (usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays) or enjoy a guided tour of the building (Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays).  During recess dates, tours are usually available Monday - Saturday, but visitors should contact us to check before arriving.

Guided tours last approx one hour and include aspects of the parliament's architecture and design, how parliament works and aspects of the art collection. 

• Level access icon Level Access
• Hearing icon Hearing
• Visual icon Visual
• General icon General

Level access

There is level access from the main entrance to:

Travel by public transport

Bus stops are close to the Scottish Parliament public entrance and are accessed across flat, paved areas.

Travel by taxi

There is a taxi rank outside the Scottish Parliament building, on the corner of Horse Wynd and Canongate. Staff at the Visitor Information Desk can help you organise a taxi.

A full list of taxi firms can be obtained from Edinburgh City Council.

A small number of public parking spaces are reserved for disabled people on Horse Wynd. 

Please note that these parking bays are for visitors to the Holyrood area in general, not just for visitors to the Parliament. These parking bays are owned and managed by the City of Edinburgh Council and can be used by all blue badge holders.   Parking for people with a disabled person’s parking permit is permitted on single yellow lines and these are available near to the Parliament building.  Commercial car parks are also available nearby on Holyrood Road.

Path to main entrance

Main entrance

The sliding door is operated by Security Officers on the inside of the building. They look out for visitors who require the use of the sliding door and they open it with a push button.

Visitors are required to proceed through airport-style security with metal detecting arches. The width of the metal detecting arches is 828mm. However, there is a wider gate available for use and this is 1000mm wide.  

Lifts to all floors- for Public Gallery of the Debating Chamber and Committee Rooms

Lift used on the guided tour route to access the Garden Lobby and the Members' Lobby

Ticket/ information desk

Visitor Information Desk

Things to See and Do

Parliament Exhibition

Although there is no seating in the Parliament Exhibition there are portable seats available for visitors to use. These seats are available in the Main Hall, adjacent to the exhibition.

Spectator/ Audience viewing areas

Public Gallery of the Debating Chamber

Staff are available to assist disabled visitors but are not able to assist with pushing wheelchairs.

There are 6 dedicated wheelchair spaces in the Public Gallery of the Debating Chamber. These areas do not have seating for companions, although companions could take seats in adjacent locations. If a wheelchair user requires a companion to sit alongside or behind them there is an area of flexible seating that makes this possible. Visitors should request this seating area at time of booking.

Stewards cannot bring food and drink to wheelchair users. There is a Code of Conduct which prohibits food and drink in the Public Gallery, however, visitors with medical conditions that require access to food and drink can bring this into the Public Gallery. At the time of booking they should request this so that arrangements can be put in place.

Public toilet

Accessible toilet in the Main Hall, adjacent to the Shop

Transfer to the toilet is front, left and right

Parliament Shop

Place to eat and drink

Parliament Cafe

A waiting room provides a quiet space. If you need a quiet space during your visit, please speak to staff.

Guided tours are available with a BSL interpreter when requested in advance (please contact Visitor Services and give at least two weeks' notice if possible). Handsets are also available with a summary of the guided tour in BSL.

Assistance dogs are welcome and water bowls are available from the Visitor Information Desk.

Audio descriptive Parliament tours can be arranged for advanced bookings. For more information please contact Visitor Services.

The public gallery of the Debating Chamber has wheelchair spaces. All committee rooms are fully accessible for wheelchair users, and spaces are reserved for wheelchair users in the public seating area in each committee room.

There are accessible toilets in several parts of the building including the entrance area, near the way out and near the stairs to the Debating Chamber. There is also a Changing Places toilet with a hoist and changing bench in the main public area of the building.

Guided tours normally last around an hour and cover a considerable area of the Parliament building. However, Visitor Services staff will be happy to take you on the route that is best suited to you and folding chairs are available to use on guided tours. Please let Visitor Services know what you need when you book. Tactile maps are available for visitors to use.

Emergency evacuation procedures

Security staff will sweep the building to assist with evacuation. 

The Scottish Parliament has a guide for visitors with autism:  http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/PublicInformationdocuments/VisitorsWit...

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Language: English / Gàidhlig

• Back to Tours

School visits

We deliver education sessions to over 22,000 Scottish pupils every year.

About the tour

We have a range of options for visiting the Parliament, designed for Scottish schools and targeted at different stages of the curriculum.

These visits can include:

• an activity
• tickets to watch a debate
• a question and answer session with MSPs

We also offer digital education sessions if you can't visit in person.

Schools from elsewhere in the UK, or the rest of the world, are encouraged to take a regular tour  (we do not have content tailored to non-Scottish curriculums).

Visit the Education section for more information

More information

Plan your visit.

For opening times, parking information and more, go to our plan your visit  page.

Don't forget to stop at our shop  and café  during your visit!

Accessibility

More about accessibility

Days and times

Monday to Friday

Other tours

Anytime, anywhere

Virtual tour

Experience the Parliament from wherever you are.

Monday, Friday, Saturday

Guided tours for individuals

Not part of a tour group? Individuals can book up to 9 tickets to join one of our scheduled guided tours. Find them here.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

As Charles makes his first King’s Speech as monarch -This is what happens at the State Opening of Parliament

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King Charles III  attended the State Opening of Parliament today, for the first time as monarch, and  announced government plans to give tougher sentences to sex offenders.

During the last State Opening of Parliament, in May 2022,  Charles stood in for his mother, Queen Elizabeth II , back when Boris Johnson was prime minister.

Since then, Elizabeth II has sadly passed away  and we’ve had two prime ministers, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, who wrote the King’s Speech that was delivered by Charles this morning.

His Majesty’s address to Parliament is a focal part of its State Opening, something which has existed in its current form since 1852, when the Palace of Westminster was rebuilt after the 1834 fire.

It’s also the only occasion when the Monarch, the Lords and the Commons meet in the same room.

But what exactly happens during the event? Let’s find out.

Search of the cellars

After the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the House of Lords during the State Opening of that year with the intention of killing King James I, a tradition started.

The cellars of the Houses of Parliament are searched before the Monarch arrives.

These days, the police join The Yeomen of the Guard – The Queen’s Bodyguards – to check the cellars and ensure her majesty’s safety during her visit to Parliament.

The hostage

Taking an MP hostage is just one of the many eccentric traditions of the ceremony.

The MP is held ‘hostage’ in Buckingham Palace in case something happens to the monarch.

Whatever happens to him, the same will happen to the MP.

This tradition goes back to the reign of Charles I, when the Monarch and Parliament didn’t have a good relationship.

Indeed, it was so bad that he was beheaded in 1649, at the end of a civil war between monarchy and Parliament .

The Imperial State Crown

The Imperial State Crown travels from the Jewel House at the Tower of London to Westminster in its own carriage.

The valuable Crown, with its 2,901 precious stones, is taken under armed guard through the streets of London.

In the BBC documentary The Coronation, the late Queen Elizabeth II revealed she was unable to look down to read the speech.

She said: ‘You can’t look down to read the speech, because if you did it would fall off. There are some disadvantages to crowns but otherwise they are quite important things.’

Royal procession

The King leaves Buckingham Palace in a horse-drawn carriage that makes its way to the Sovereign’s Entrance at the Houses of Parliament.

He is escorted by members of the Household Cavalry.

Along the route, there are members of Britain’s armed forces who ‘present arms’ as the royal procession passes. They provide security and add to the pageantry of the day.

The Robing Room

Once the King enters the Houses of Parliament, he makes his way to the Robing Room.

It is here that he puts on the Robe of State and the Imperial Crown.

Once the King is ready, he the leads the Royal procession through the impressive Royal Gallery, which is packed with guests, and onto the House of Lords via Princes Chamber.

The House of Lords

Members of the Lords are present in this chamber together with ambassadors and high commissioners – they usually wear their national dress – as well as judges from the High Court, the Court of Appeal and Justices of the Supreme Court.

Once he enters the House of Lords, the King takes his seat on the throne to deliver The King’s Speech.

But before he does so, the House of Lords official known as ‘Black Rod’ or ‘the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod’, is sent to the House of Commons to summon the MPs.

Black rod and summoning the House of Commons

No British monarch has entered the House of Commons since 1642 when King Charles I came to arrest five MPs in the run-up to the English Civil War.

To symbolise the independence of Parliament from the Monarch, the Commons doors are slammed in Black Rod’s face when he or she tries to enter.

The Royal messenger has to bang three times with the rod before he is allowed in.

If you visit Parliament, you can see the dent in the woodwork where Black Rods have made their mark.

MP’s follow Black Rod to the Lords chamber to listen to the speech by the House of Lords bar, which is at the opposite end to the Throne.

The King’s Speech

Once everyone is in the House of Lords, and before either House can proceed to public business, the King officially opens Parliament by addressing both Houses in The King’s Speech .

The monarch does not write the speech. It is written for him by the prime minister and the Cabinet and it outlines government policies and laws it wants to pass.

After the King’s Speech

Once the King leaves Parliament, members of both Houses debate the content of the speech.

There are usually functions too, with food and drinks served, but these are by invitation only.

Members of the public cannot attend the State Opening of Parliament but they can attend any of the debates taking place on the day, either in the Lords or Commons chambers, from around 2pm, after the King has left.

MORE : Why is the King’s crown at the State Opening of Parliament and how much is it worth?

MORE : Harry and Meghan in another petty tit-for-tat with Charles over party invites

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Why Kate Middleton and Prince William Didn't Attend King Charles' First State Opening of Parliament

Prince William appeared beside his father last year for the event

Stephanie Petit is a Royals Editor, Writer and Reporter at PEOPLE.

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

Kate Middleton and Prince William  weren't by  King Charles ' side for a first of his royal reign.

On Tuesday, King Charles and Queen Camilla attended the State Opening of Parliament for the first time since his accession. The King wore the Imperial State Crown for the first time since his coronation and read the King's Speech, which was written by the government and contained an outline of its proposed legislation for the new parliamentary session.

Aside from the King and Queen, Princess Anne took part in the event in her role as Gold Stick in Waiting .

However, the Prince and Princess of Wales didn't attend the historic event.

LEON NEAL/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

It's not required for the heir to the throne to attend the State Opening of Parliament, but King Charles accompanied his mother, Queen Elizabeth , several times throughout her reign. He attended for the first time in 1970.

But Prince William had a significant event of his own on Tuesday: the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in Singapore. The Prince of Wales, 41, hit the green carpet alongside Cate Blanchett ,  Hannah Waddingham  and  Sterling K. Brown as they honored the  next wave of environmentalists  coming up with answers to the planet's most pressing problems.

Although Princess Kate, 41, joined her husband at the  inaugural awards ceremony  for the environmental prize in London in October 2021 and for the second cycle  in Boston in December 2022, she did not make the trip to Singapore. She stayed in the U.K. to support their son Prince George as he tackles school exams .

“Catherine is very sorry she can’t be here,” Prince William said in Singapore this week. "She is helping George through his first set of major exams.”

Chris Jackson/Getty

In May 2022, Prince William was present at the State Opening of Parliament for the first time. Buckingham Palace announced that the Queen, who died in September 2022 at age 96, would  miss the event due to "episodic mobility problems."  For the first time,  Charles represented his mother  and read the Queen's Speech.

Queen Elizabeth delegated her royal duty of opening a new session of Parliament to her son and grandson via a letter patent, which enabled them to jointly exercise that function. Both were acting as Counsellors of State, and two Counsellors of State are required to perform any of the monarch's constitutional duties.

Princess Kate has not yet attended the State Opening of Parliament.

Can't get enough of  PEOPLE 's Royals coverage?  Sign up for our free Royals newsletter  to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Jane Barlow - Pool/Getty Images

King Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 76, may not have been accompanied by Prince William and Princess Kate for the State Opening of Parliament, but the monarch has made his son and daughter-in-law's important roles within the royal family clear. He gave them the titles of the Prince and Princess of Wales just one day after his accession, and they've been at prominent events — including being the only other royals at the coronation celebrations in Scotland over the summer.

“Charles is leading the way for them already, and [William and Kate] are both involved in decision-making behind the scenes. They are ready and willing to do the job — and Kate is very much a part of that,” a friend of the princess previously told PEOPLE .

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Pro-Palestinian protesters scale parliament roof

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

A group of pro-Palestinian protesters have occupied the roof of the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh.

Five people demonstrated with a large hand-painted sign which reads "Stop arming Israel".

A large Palestinian flag was also attached to the front of the building in a prominent position.

Police Scotland officers closed off the area in front of the building and spoke to protesters.

A force spokesperson said: "We are aware of the protest and officers are in attendance."

• Yousaf speaks of family tears after Gaza evacuation
• Pro-Palestinian protesters occupy railway stations

Large pro-Palestinian protests have been held in recent days in both Glasgow and Edinburgh, with activists occupying both Glasgow Queen Street and Edinburgh Waverley train stations.

Marches have been taking place across the UK to urge an end to Israeli attacks in Gaza.

First Minister Humza Yousaf, whose parents-in-law escaped from Gaza last week after four weeks under Israeli siege, has backed the right of protesters to hold further events on Armistice Day on Saturday.

It came after Home Secretary Suella Braverman described a planned pro-Palestinian event in London on Armistice Day as a "hate march".

Border crossings in and out of Gaza had been closed since 7 October, when Hamas, which is a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK, attacked Israel, killing more than 1,400 people and taking more than 240 hostage.

Since then Israel has been carrying out military action in Gaza. The Hamas-run health ministry says more than 10,000 people have died.

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