Queen Elizabeth's Private Edinburgh Apartments to Open to Public

The exhibition will offer a rare glimpse into the late monarch's personal living spaces.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Queen Elizabeth's private apartments at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch's official residence in Scotland, will open to the public for the first time later this year. The temporary showcase is being staged to mark the centenary of Queen Elizabeth's birth in 1926 and will run for 100 days, giving visitors a rare look into the late Queen's personal living spaces.

Why it matters

Holyroodhouse has served as the monarch's base in Scotland for centuries, and the opening of the Queen's private apartments offers a unique opportunity for the public to see how the late monarch lived and worked during her stays in Edinburgh. This exhibition provides insight into the personal life of one of the most famous figures of the 20th century.

The details

The guided tours will take visitors inside the suite of rooms that the Queen shared with Prince Philip, including the Queen's Dressing Room, the Sitting Room, and the Royal Breakfast Room. The rooms are furnished with pieces from the Royal Collection and will also feature at least three outfits worn by Elizabeth during notable engagements in Edinburgh.

  • The exhibition will run for 100 days starting later this year.
  • Tickets will first be offered to Royal Collection Trust email subscribers on March 9, 2026.
  • Remaining tickets will go on general sale on March 12, 2026.

The players

Queen Elizabeth

The late monarch whose private apartments at the Palace of Holyroodhouse will be opened to the public for the first time.

Prince Philip

The Queen's husband, who shared the private apartments with her during their stays in Edinburgh.

Royal Collection Trust

The organization that manages the Palace of Holyroodhouse estate and is staging the exhibition.

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What’s next

Tickets for the exhibition will first be offered to Royal Collection Trust email subscribers on March 9, 2026, before going on general sale on March 12, 2026. Availability is expected to be limited due to the short duration of the exhibition.

The takeaway

The opening of Queen Elizabeth's private apartments at the Palace of Holyroodhouse provides a unique opportunity for the public to gain insight into the personal life of one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. This exhibition marks a significant moment in the history of the British monarchy and offers a rare glimpse into the Queen's private world.