The Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh is a symbol of Scotland’s democracy and a key part of the country’s political landscape. Located in the heart of the city, the Scottish Parliament is a modern building that serves as the home of the Scottish Government and its 129 Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).
History of the Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament was established in 1999, following the 1997 devolution referendum which saw an overwhelming majority of Scots vote in favour of creating a devolved government. The Parliament is based at Holyrood, in the historic centre of Edinburgh, and is the seat of the Scottish Government.
The building was designed by the Spanish architect Enric Miralles and was opened by Her Majesty The Queen in October 2004. The Parliament building is a modernist design, with an iconic roof shaped like a boat, and incorporates elements of traditional Scottish architecture.
Attractions at the Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament is open to the public, and visitors can explore the building and learn more about Scotland’s democracy. The Parliament offers a range of guided tours, which offer an insight into the history and workings of the Parliament. There are also interactive displays and exhibitions, which explain the role of MSPs and the Parliament in Scotland’s democracy.
The Parliament is also home to the Scottish National Party (SNP) and the offices of the First Minister of Scotland. Visitors can also explore the Parliament’s gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and wildlife.
What to Expect at the Scottish Parliament
Visitors to the Scottish Parliament can expect to find a modern building, with a range of interactive displays and exhibitions. There are also guided tours, which offer an insight into the workings of the Parliament. The Parliament is also home to the SNP and the offices of the First Minister of Scotland.
Tours of the Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament offers a range of guided tours, which offer an insight into the history and workings of the Parliament. Tours are available in a variety of languages and are suitable for all ages. The tours include a visit to the debating chamber, where MSPs debate on legislation, and the Garden Lobby, which is home to a variety of plants and wildlife.
Admission to the Scottish Parliament
Admission to the Scottish Parliament is free, and visitors do not need to purchase tickets to visit the building and explore the interactive displays and exhibitions. Guided tours are also free, but tickets must be booked in advance.
Tips for Tourists Visiting the Scottish Parliament
- Book your tickets for the guided tour in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the building is large and there is a lot to explore.
- Take time to explore the gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and wildlife.
- Take advantage of the interactive displays and exhibitions to learn more about Scotland’s democracy.
- Be aware that the Scottish Parliament is a working building and there can be disruption due to debates and votes.
Practical Information for the Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament is located at Holyrood, in the historic centre of Edinburgh. The building is open to the public Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5pm. Guided tours are available in a variety of languages and must be booked in advance. Admission to the Scottish Parliament is free.
The Scottish Parliament is an important part of Scotland’s democracy and a symbol of the country’s politics. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the Parliament is a modern building that serves as the home of the Scottish Government and its 129 MSPs. Visitors to the Parliament can explore the building, learn more about Scotland’s democracy, and take advantage of the interactive displays and exhibitions. The Parliament also offers a range of guided tours, which offer an insight into the history and workings of the Parliament. Admission to the Scottish Parliament is free, and visitors do not need to purchase tickets to visit the building and explore the interactive displays and exhibitions.
