The Scottish Parliament at Holyrood is the home of Scottish democracy. We are open throughout the year and offer the opportunity to watch Parliamentary business taking place, and on certain days there are free guided tours and talks. We also have an exhibition, a café and gift shop.
What's on
Monday to Saturday during recess
Guided tour
Discover more about the history behind the Scottish Parliament and learn about the architecture of the award-winning Parliament building. Book ahead to avoid disappointment!
Monday to Saturday
Self-guided visit
You are welcome to visit the building any time it’s open. You do not need to book. You can explore any public areas, including our free exhibition.
Monday to Saturday
Group visits
Groups of more than 20 can book tickets for one of our group visit options.
What's on
World Press Photo Exhibition 2026
We're the only venue in Scotland to host this FREE photojournalism exhibition. Plus, we have a series of events taking place around the exhibition, which runs from 19 October to 7 November.
Debates
First Minister's Questions
Tuesdays and Thursdays 30mins
The First Minister answers questions from backbench MSPs on Tuesdays and party leaders on Thursdays. These sessions are open for the public to attend – and it's free. Booking in advance required. FMQs will resume after recess.
Watch debates in the Chamber
Tuesday to Thursday
All meetings in the Debating Chamber are open to the public. You are welcome to either walk in on the day of your visit, or book ahead. Tickets are free. Chamber debates will resume after recess.
Watch a committee meeting
Tuesday to Thursday
Committees have specific topics and meet regularly to hear from various people. These meetings are open to the public. You can either book tickets ahead of time or watch a meeting on the day of your visit. Meetings are free to attend. Committee meetings will resume after recess.
Explore the Parliament
How to find us
Please try to arrive 20 minutes prior to event to allow time to pass through security at the Scottish Parliament.
By bus
Visitors can use the Lothian Buses service numbers 35 (nearest is outside our building on the Royal Mile).
Several open top tour buses make regular stops here, too.
By train
The Parliament building is a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station. Information about train services to and from Edinburgh is available from National Rail.
By road
Our postcode is EH99 1SP. The nearest car parks are St John's Hill or on New Street, next to Waverley Station. The Parliament sits on boundary of the Edinburgh Low Emission Zone.