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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre

Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre

Located at the very bottom of the Royal Mile, this striking modern building is where the country’s big decisions happen. It is in Holyrood, Edinburgh, and the postcode is EH99 1SP.

What to Expect and Enjoy
Even if you aren’t into politics, the building itself is a work of art with its unique “upturned boat” shapes and leafy designs.

  • The Architecture: It is fascinating to walk through. The design uses lots of oak and granite, and the light coming through the windows is beautiful.
  • Debating Chamber: If the Parliament is sitting, you can often get a free ticket to sit in the gallery and watch the MSPs (Members of the Scottish Parliament) in action. It’s quite an experience to see how the government works live.
  • Exhibitions: There are usually free displays that explain the history of the area and how the voting system works, often with interactive screens that are easy for kids to use.

Best For and Time Spent
This is best for adults, seniors, and older children who have an interest in history or design.

  • Duration: A casual walk-through takes about 1 hour, though you might stay longer if you decide to take a guided tour (which are excellent).

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Security: Like an airport, you will have to go through a security scanner to get in. It’s very quick and the staff are friendly, but keep it in mind if you’re carrying a lot of bags.
  • Cost: Entry is free, making it one of the best value stops in the city!
  • Food & Drink: There is a lovely, bright cafe on-site that is often quieter and cheaper than the busy tourist cafes further up the Royal Mile.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Blackness Castle Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Linlithgow Palace Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Rosslyn Chapel Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Portrait Gallery Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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