Holyrood Abbey is the ruins of an abbey founded in 1128 by David I and can only be accessed on a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse next door.
The remains of the abbey are very impressive – the nave with its Gothic architecture dates from the 1200s and its design is said to be similar to that of Lincoln Cathedral.
They also, as to be expected, have a very interesting royal history. It served as a royal residence before the palace was built and a number of royals are buried here including James V and Lord Darnley, husband of Mary, Queen of Scots. It was also the coronation site of James II, Margaret Tudor and Charles I.
The Protestant Reformation lead to the loss of much of the abbey and though it continued for a while as a parish church, this is in turn was ruined after the Catholic James VII evicted worshippers in 1657. The roof collapsed in December 1768 and the abbey has remained as it is since then.
It’s a nicely atmospheric building and well worth looking around after you’ve been to the palace.
Louise Jayne's Blog 