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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Phoebe Corinish & Sophie Buchan

Inside Edinburgh's historical palace where the Queen stays when in capital

The Queen is known for coming up to Scotland to visit the iconic Balmoral castle.

However many people don't know where she stays when she visits Holyrood, and with Her Majesty in Scotland in honour of Holyrood Week, which is celebrated every year between the end of June and beginning of July, people are keen to know more.

According to the Express, the Queen alongside other members of the Royal Family will take part in a full week of traditional events to mark the occasion.

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But where does she stay and what does the property look like on the inside? Here's everything you need to know.

Where does the Queen stay when in Edinburgh?

Holyroodhouse is recognised as the Queen’s official residence in Scotland having played a major role in key events throughout her 70-year-reign. The spectacular property is one of two royal Scottish residences owned by the monarch and has hosted a variety of events.

The palace is open to the public year round and welcomes visitors to explore the history and significance of the building featuring 14 State apartments and the “romantic ruins” of the 12th century Abbey, according to Visit Scotland.

In addition to this, inside the historical property is adorned with lavish furnishings, unique paintings and gold details, very much in keeping with the style of most royal homes.

The ruins of the 12th century Abbey can be seen on the grounds at Holyroodhouse Palace. (Getty.)

The Palace of Holyroodhouse was founded as a monastery at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile and plays an important role in Scotland's history. It is used for a variety of celebrations, more notably the Queen's Holyrood Week.

Also called the Royal Week, the annual event, currently taking place, sees the Queen undertake seven days worth of engagements in a bid to celebrate Scottish culture, history and achievement.

Royal UK said: “The Investiture held in the Great Gallery is for Scottish residents whose achievements have been recognised in the twice-yearly Honours List which appears at New Year and on the Queen's Official Birthday in June.”

What does the Palace of Holyroodhouse look like?

Outside, the magnificent building is surrounded by tall, green hills whilst Holyroodhouse itself is a sizable brick property with tall turrets and large white sash windows. Leading up to the palace is a driveway covered in deep grey tarmac with a rounded green lawn surrounding a statue in front of the building.

According to the Royal Family’s official website, the palace started off as an Augustinian Monastery having been built by David 1 back in 1128 and has been home to royalty for more than 500 years.

What does inside Holyroodhouse look like?

Inside the building the Palace welcomes guests by who are greeted by a Grand Stair. The wide stone staircase guides visitors to the upper floors of the house whilst the walls are filled with several tapestries.

Queen Elizabeth II has travelled to Scotland in honour of Holyrood Week. (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Morning Drawing Room is another significant room featuring deep wood panelling on the walls right up to the decorative ceiling. The Royal Family website explains that the room contains several unique pieces of furniture compromising of an 18th century incense burner, 17th century settee as well as a 16th century painting.

The room also includes a grand fireplace with a decorative fire screen alongside a tapestry illustration depicting the Sacrifice of Isaac. Another notable mention is the drawing room which is said to be filled with classic patterned chairs, rugs and settees - all of which are illuminated by cosy, yellow wall-lights.

In the King's Bedchamber, guests will find a four-poster bed covered in red fabric which sits in the centre of the enormous room with wood-panelling on all four walls. Perhaps the most striking space within the Palace is the Great Gallery, lined with Jacob de Wet's portraits of the real and legendary kings of Scotland, commissioned by Charles II.

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