Palace of Holyroodhouse
As Prince William and Kate Middleton prepare to wed, the eyes of the world again focus on the British monarchy and its pomp and splendor. Enjoy a whirlwind tour of sites near and dear to the royal couple and the royal family — not to mention a few tasty bits of gossip.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, or Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. The palace stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Holyrood Palace is the setting for state ceremonies and official entertaining. The Queen typically stays here during Holyrood week, which usually runs from the end of June to the beginning of July.

Prince William has taken Kate Middleton on an emotional visit to his mother’s grave just days ahead of their wedding. 

The pair are believed to have made the journey to the ancestral home of Diana, Princess of Wales, in Althorp, Northants, this month and held hands as they lay flowers in her memory.

The Prince has spoken openly of his desire to share his wedding day with his mother and knows how much it would have meant to her.

A royal source said: “It was very important for William to take Kate to visit his mum just before their wedding day.

“Diana is still a huge part of her boys’ everyday life and always will be.
“It is tragic that she won’t be there to see the wedding, and that she never got to meet his bride.