Christmas Activity Day

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is hosting a Christmas Activity Day on Saturday 19 December, from 10:00 to 15:00. It's a family day that draws on the Palace's royal past: the Palace tells us that Mary, Queen of Scots celebrated Christmas here, and that greenery has been used to decorate the state rooms for centuries. The day is built around that tradition, with a family activity trail that threads through the decorated Palace.

The same festive dress that fills the rooms also shapes the making session. There, you'll craft your own pomander orange in a style inspired by the 16th century, and a mini Christmas wreath to take home. The Palace itself is dressed for the season, with illuminated stags, does and fawns filling the Quadrangle, and the façade, gates and forecourt fountain lit each evening at the foot of the Royal Mile.

It's a good one for a Saturday morning with the kids, especially if you're already planning to be in the city that weekend. The Palace is at Canongate, Edinburgh East EH8 8DX, and the activity day runs from 10:00 to 15:00 on Saturday 19 December. Entry is included with a Palace ticket or a 1-Year Pass.