Palace of Holyroodhouse lit up for Christmas
Release date: Thursday 28 November 2024
From today, visitors to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will see the State Apartments decorated with magnificent Christmas displays.
A highlight this year is the wood-panelled Throne Room, which has been decorated with two 12-foot-high Christmas trees and a sparkling mantle garland. A glistening 15-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree and two decorated mantelpieces create a festive atmosphere in the storied Great Gallery.
In the Royal Dining Room, which was first used as a dining room by Queen Victoria, the table is laid with a silver service and with sugared fruits and foliage.
Festive garlands, berries and foliage adorn the Great Stair leading to the historic State Apartments, and wreaths are hung in the windows in the enfilade of the King’s Rooms.
Outside, festive wreaths will greet visitors at the Palace’s front gates. The central lamppost and sides of the Quadrangle are decorated with long garlands.
In the Café at the Palace in the Mews courtyard, visitors can enjoy a festive menu surrounded by wreaths and garlands. Christmas-themed Afternoon Tea can also be booked in advance.
For the first time on Friday, 6 December, visitors will be able to explore the Palace and see the Christmas decorations during a relaxed, accessible evening. The event is open to all, including those with autism and other neurodiverse needs, together with their siblings, families and carers, who will be able to visit after hours when the Palace is quieter.
A Christmas Activity Day for families will take place on Saturday, 14 December. Visitors can take in the Palace’s festive decorations and then make their own versions with ribbon wreath-making in the Great Gallery. In the Family Room, children can design their own Christmas cards to give to family and friends. All activities will be included with Palace admission.
On Saturday, 14 December there will be a special descriptive Christmas tour for visually impaired visitors and a BSL interpreted tour through the festively decorated State Apartments for D/deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors.
Exclusive guided family tours will also take place on Saturday, 14 December and Saturday, 21 December. These fun, interactive tours are especially designed for children and families to enjoy together before the Palace doors open to the public.
Christmas at the Palace of Holyroodhouse is from 28 November 2024 to 6 January 2025.
