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Royal Yacht Britannia

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Royal Yacht Britannia

Glimpse the life of royalty in the elegant rooms of what was once the Queen of England's personal cruise liner and Britain's ambassadorial ship overseas.

The magnificent Royal Yacht Britannia, docked at Ocean Terminal, provides fascinating insight into the wealth and opulence enjoyed by Britain's head of state. The craft, which served the Windsors for over 44 years, is 412 feet (126 meters) long and classy from bow to stern. Follow in the footsteps of Britain's monarchs and explore the sumptuous bedrooms and gilded staircases.

The Britannia first launched in 1953 and served the Royal Family as a floating residence and for transportation to visit other nations. The yacht was used as both a venue for entertaining guests from around the world and a floating home for Queen Elizabeth II.

Start in the Visitor Centre in Ocean Terminal before boarding. Photos from the ship's history shed light on the legacy of the craft.

Visit five decks, which contain fancy dining rooms, servants’ quarters and Her Majesty's bed chamber. Imagine being the Queen's engineer in the shiny Engine Room and inspect the various dials and pistons. Other rooms below the decks include the Sick Bay and Galley.

The luxurious State Apartments offer even more clues about the life of a traveling monarch. See the Rolls-Royce that the Queen would have been chauffeured in around foreign nations and the dining room where other dignitaries and heads of state were entertained.

Use one of the audio guides, included in the ticket price and available in multiple languages, to learn about the gigantic vessel. Visiting families can choose tours with child-friendly narration.

Stop for an afternoon drink or a light lunch in the on-deck tearoom, which was once the dining room of royalty. Enjoy a cup of tea served in fine china, with views over the water to accompany your refreshments.

To get here, take a bus to Ocean Terminal, which is a 2-minute walk from the yacht. Free parking is available for drivers. Your ticket to the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is open every day of the year except Christmas and New Year's Day, entitles you to apply for a free annual pass that means you can visit again and again.

Guide to Exploring Royal Yacht Britannia

University of Edinburgh

The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.

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Royal Botanic Garden

Relax after sightseeing among the exotic plants and Victorian greenhouses of this swath of nature in the heart of Edinburgh.

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Princes Street Gardens

Spend time in this attractive green space that separates Edinburgh’s Old Town from its 18th-century New Town.

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The Scotch Whisky Experience

Enjoy a barrel ride, talks and tasting sessions in this lively museum devoted to Scotland's famous amber nectar.

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Scott Monument

Climb up one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, a tower built to honor a Scottish literary legend.

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Writers' Museum

Housed in an old noble’s city mansion and hidden away in a quiet courtyard, this museum provides an enlightening look at the lives of Scotland’s most famous writers.

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Greyfriar's Bobby

Visit a cemetery that has entered into legend because of a faithful dog who waited for years by his master’s grave.

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The Meadows

One of Edinburgh’s largest public parks is an attractive open space with tree-lined walkways, picnic areas and sporting facilities.

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Edinburgh Castle

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

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Parliament House

Edinburgh’s original parliament building is often missed by most tourists, but it’s well worth a visit for the art and architecture. 

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Edinburgh Zoo

See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.

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Scottish Parliament

As Scotland’s political center, this striking modern building hosts the nation's government and welcomes visitors to its events and exhibitions.

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Georgian House

Experience how the affluent used to live in 18th-century Edinburgh at this free attraction, a restored Georgian townhouse.

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Arthur's Seat

Hike up a former active volcano that’s only a few minutes from the city center and enjoy impressive views of Edinburgh.

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National Museum of Scotland

Science, nature, history and culture come together in this spectacular museum, which celebrates learning about the world and all its wonders.

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St. Giles' Cathedral

See stunning artwork, beautiful chapels, poignant memorials and musical performances at this ancient place of worship.

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National Library of Scotland

Scotland’s largest library is free to use. Don’t miss its exhibition of one of the world’s most important literary archives.

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Calton Hill

Grab your camera and head for the hill that features monuments, superb views and the seat of the Scottish government.

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Scottish National Gallery

Discover the work of some of the greatest Scottish and European painters at this free gallery in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.

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