Visit the Scottish Parliament | Tour Details & Highlights
Visit the Scottish Parliament with Bright Bus Tours and explore the beating heart of Scotland’s democracy.
About Scottish Parliament
Experience the home of Scottish democracy firsthand at the impressive Scottish Parliament at Holyrood. Nestled at the foot of the historic Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament building is a must-see for visitors to Scotland’s capital city.
Opened in 2004, this architectural marvel is a symbol of modern governance in a country rich with tradition. The parliament’s bold architecture even features natural elements, which reflect Scotland’s landscape and culture.
The building hosts regular parliamentary sessions, meetings, talks and events, giving you a chance to see how the nation’s laws are debated and shaped.
Reach Edinburgh Castle With Bright Bus Tours
Here’s everything you need to know about travelling with
Bright Bus Tours to the Scottish Parliament.
Our City Tour
Jump on our exciting City Tour and experience the best of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. As you travel between stops, you’ll witness the city’s fascinating fusion of ancient and modern themes. Where is the Scottish Parliament on our tour? It’s at Stop 13 — ready for you to hop off and immerse yourself in Scotland’s political hub.
Your Bright Bus Tour ticket includes unlimited hop-on and hop-off access. So, you can easily fit the Scottish Parliament into your Edinburgh adventure, explore at your own pace, and resume your bus tour when you’re done to see Edinburgh’s other brilliant sights.
Scottish Parliament Tour Details
Keep the following details in mind when planning your trip to the Scottish Parliament.
Opening Times
During the parliamentary recess, the Scottish Parliament welcomes visitors on:
- Monday, Friday, and Saturday (including public holidays). It’s open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (the last entry is at 4:30 PM).
Note: These hours are as of August 2024 and are subject to change when Parliament is in session. We recommend checking the official Scottish Parliament website or asking our friendly Bright Bus Tours ambassadors for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Tour Options
- All guided tours are free. Your guide will provide expert insights into the history of the building.
- You can choose to do a self-guided visit. Informative leaflets are provided for independent exploration.
- There are group tours available. We recommend booking in advance for these.
Tickets & Entry
- Entry is free into the building and for tours.
- There is an airport-style security check at the entrance.
Note: Entry to the Scottish Parliament building and its tours are free, but your journey there with Bright Bus Tours is a separate experience. Our City Tour tickets, which include the Scottish Parliament stop, start from £16.
Facilities & Accessibility
Here are the on-site facilities and accessibility options you can expect during your visit to the Scottish Parliament.
Facilities
- You can browse unique Scottish souvenirs at the on-site gift shop.
- The café serves refreshments and light meals, perfect for a quick break during your tour.
Accessibility
- All public areas are wheelchair accessible, including guided tours and public galleries.
- You can borrow wheelchairs and portable seating from the Visitor Information Desk.
- The venue warmly welcomes assistance dogs.
- You can request portable hearing loops and audio enhancement headsets for tours and parliamentary sessions.
Book your Scottish Parliament Tour Now
Highlights of the Scottish Parliament
Make the most of your Scottish Parliament visit with these experiences.
Watch Scottish Democracy Live
Witness live parliament debates in the impressive Debating Chamber. On your guided tour, you might also observe committee meetings and sessions.
Tour the Grand Main Hall
Walk through the grand Main Hall and discover the symbolism behind the building’s design elements, each telling a story of Scotland’s heritage.
View Artworks & Exhibitions
The Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh boasts diverse artworks and exhibitions for visitors to admire. Also, check the official website for any upcoming special events that can add an extra dimension to your visit.
Explore Edinburgh’s Top Sights With Bright Bus Tours
Make your visit to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh even brighter with Bright Bus Tours! Our City Tour is the perfect way to discover Edinburgh’s political heart along with other iconic attractions.
But why stop there? Hop aboard our Britannia Tour to explore the city’s royal heritage, or take advantage of our Airport Express for the fastest, cheapest connection between the city and Edinburgh Airport.
With our friendly on-street ambassadors, open-top buses, and flexible hop-on hop-off services, you’ll explore the best of Edinburgh in the most exciting way possible.
Ready to visit the Scottish Parliament and explore Edinburgh’s wonders?
Book your City Tour tickets now!