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.
Arts and crafts for everyone
Crafternoons sessions DAILY during recess!
Join us Mondays to Saturdays during recess for more arts and crafts fun!
Tours and more
Explore the Parliament
The Festival of Politics
Join the discussion
Our Festival programme features leading experts from the worlds of politics, the arts, business, the media and the third sector. Join us on 20 to 22 August!
Debates
First Minister's Questions
Thursday at 12:00 45mins
Every Thursday at midday, the First Minister answers questions from MSPs. This session is open for the public to attend – and it's free. Booking in advance required.
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.
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.
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.