Sometimes we forget how lucky we are to have such a beautiful city all around us. Over the holidays, Kate and I decided to take a day to explore one of Edinburgh’s gems, Holyrood Palace, even though the weather was quite rainy. We were pleasantly surprised to find that my Ministry of Defence ID card granted us free entry, making it a perfect budget-friendly day out.
For Kate, this visit was particularly special as it was her first attempt at making a YouTube video. Inspired by a school trip, she focused on the general history of the palace in her video. However, during our tour, she eagerly shared with me many fascinating details about Mary, Queen of Scots, who remains one of the palace’s most famous residents. In hindsight, we should’ve included all of this in the video, but we hope you enjoy watching it anyway and getting a glimpse of the palace.
Holyrood Palace is steeped in history, and exploring it with kids can be both educational and entertaining. Despite the rain, we ventured out, equipped with umbrellas and a sense of adventure. As we approached the grand entrance, the palace loomed majestically before us, its historical significance palpable even on a gloomy day.
Once inside, we were transported back in time. Kate, camera in hand, began her narration with the broader history of the palace, capturing its grandeur and significance. Unfortunately, photography and filming are not allowed in the majority of the palace rooms, so she had to get creative with her shots. Still, she managed to provide an engaging overview, while she personally shared with me the intricate details of Mary, Queen of Scots’ life.
Our first stop was the Great Gallery, where portraits of Scottish monarchs line the walls. Kate pointed out the portrait of Mary, explaining how she became queen at just six days old. The gallery’s grandeur and the tales it holds captured her imagination, making it a highlight of our visit.
Next, we explored the chambers where Mary lived, including her bedchamber. Kate was fascinated by the intricate tapestries and antique furniture. She spoke about the murder of David Rizzio, Mary’s secretary, which took place here, and how this event significantly impacted Mary’s life. Her enthusiasm for history was evident as she shared these stories, making the experience more engaging for both of us.
We also noticed that some rooms looked different from when Queen Elizabeth II was on the throne. I’m sure there used to be more family photos out in the sitting room, giving it a more personal touch back then. Despite these changes, the historical essence of the palace remained intact.
Despite the rain, the palace gardens were a must-see. We strolled through the lush greenery, imagining how the gardens would look on a sunny day. Kate captured footage of the gardens, talking about the various plants and flowers that Mary might have seen during her walks.
Visiting Holyrood Palace on a rainy day had its own charm. The palace felt more intimate, and the lack of crowds allowed us to explore at our own pace. It was a reminder of how Edinburgh, with its rich history and beautiful architecture, offers countless opportunities for exploration and learning.
Our visit to Holyrood Palace was a wonderful day out, combining history, storytelling, and a bit of adventure. Kate’s first YouTube video project turned out to be a great success, filled with interesting facts and engaging content about the general history of the palace. In hindsight, we should have included more about Mary, Queen of Scots, but we hope you enjoy watching the video and getting a glimpse of this remarkable place.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace is definitely worth a visit. Even on a rainy day, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past and provides a unique educational experience for kids. We’ve also review the Palace through the eyes of a toddler before. And who knows, you might just inspire a little historian like Kate!
