New Parliament House, 5-7 Regent Rd, Edinburgh EH7 5BL

Old Royal High School


The Old Royal High School, also known as New Parliament House, is a 19th-century neoclassical building on Calton Hill in the city of Edinburgh.

Location

About

The Old Royal High School in Edinburgh, Scotland is a must-visit historical place for any tourist interested in the rich cultural heritage of the city. This magnificent building, located on Regent Road near the famous Calton Hill, has a long and fascinating history that spans over two centuries.

The Old Royal High School was built in 1829 as a school for the children of Edinburgh's wealthy families. It was designed by the renowned architect Thomas Hamilton in the Greek Revival style, which was popular at the time. The building is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and boasts a grand entrance, Corinthian columns, and an impressive pediment with a sculpture of King George IV.

Although the building was originally intended as a school, it served as the home of the Scottish Parliament from 1999 to 2004 during the construction of the new Scottish Parliament building. After the Scottish Parliament moved out, there were several plans to convert the building into a hotel or a cultural center, but none of these plans came to fruition.

Today, the Old Royal High School is a historical monument that is open to the public. Visitors can explore the building's grand entrance hall, which features a stunning staircase and beautiful stained glass windows. The main hall is equally impressive, with its high ceilings and ornate plasterwork. Visitors can also see the old schoolroom, which has been preserved as it was during the building's use as a school.

One of the highlights of a visit to the Old Royal High School is the panoramic view of Edinburgh from the rooftop terrace. The terrace offers stunning views of the city's skyline, including Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth. The terrace is also a popular spot for taking photographs and enjoying a quiet moment away from the bustle of the city.

Overall, the Old Royal High School is a historical gem that is not to be missed when visiting Edinburgh. Its neoclassical architecture, rich history, and stunning views make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Scotland's capital city.

Opening Hours

Wednesday 7 am–6 pm
Thursday 7 am–6 pm
Friday 7 am–6 pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Monday 7 am–6 pm
Tuesday 7 am–6 pm

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