The Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh
Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a majestic floating palace and iconic symbol of British royal history and maritime heritage.
The Royal Yacht Britannia, berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, served as the British Royal Family's floating palace for over 40 years. Now a top visitor attraction, it offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life at sea across five decks, featuring the State Apartments, Crew’s Quarters, Engine Room, and the Queen’s favourite Sun Lounge. Visitors enjoy an immersive audio guide, historic exhibitions, and the Royal Deck Tearoom with stunning waterfront views.
A brief summary to Edinburgh
- Edinburgh, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Start your visit at the Visitor Centre on the second floor of Ocean Terminal to explore interactive exhibits before boarding.
- Use the free audio guide provided to fully appreciate the stories and history across all five decks.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to tour the yacht and visit the Royal Deck Tearoom for refreshments with waterfront views.
- Check seasonal opening times in advance as hours vary throughout the year, with closures on 1 January and 25 December.
- Accessible by tram, bus, car, and bike; free parking is available at Ocean Terminal with some height restrictions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Edinburgh Tram from the city centre or Edinburgh Airport directly to Ocean Terminal in Leith, a 20-25 minute journey. The Britannia Visitor Centre is on the second floor of the terminal. Tram tickets must be purchased in advance on the platform.
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Bus
Use Lothian Bus services 10, 16, 34, or 35 from Edinburgh city centre to Ocean Terminal. Tickets can be bought on board with contactless payment or cash (exact change required). The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Car
Drive approximately 20 minutes from Edinburgh city centre to Ocean Terminal, Leith. Use postcode EH6 6JJ for satnav. Free multi-storey parking is available with a 2-metre height restriction; no motorhome or caravan parking is permitted.
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Bike
Cycle to Ocean Terminal using Edinburgh’s dedicated cycle lanes and the Water of Leith path for a traffic-free route. Bike racks are available outside Ocean Terminal for secure parking.
Edinburgh location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Edinburgh
A Floating Palace of British Royalty
The Royal Yacht Britannia served as the official sea residence of the British Royal Family from 1954 until 1997. Over its 44 years of service, Britannia sailed more than one million nautical miles, hosting 968 state visits and welcoming world leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill. The yacht was designed with input from Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, reflecting a blend of modest elegance and functional luxury. Since being decommissioned, it has been permanently berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, where it has become a celebrated visitor attraction.Exploring Five Decks of History and Royal Life
Visitors begin their tour in the modern Visitor Centre on the second floor of Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, where interactive exhibits and archival photographs trace the history of Royal Yachts dating back to 1660. Boarding the yacht, guests explore five decks with a complimentary audio guide available in over 30 languages, including BSL and Braille. Key highlights include the Bridge, where visitors can experience the captain’s perspective; the lavish State Apartments; the Queen’s Sun Lounge, her favourite room for breakfast and tea; and the Crew’s Quarters, offering insight into daily life for the 220 Royal Yachtsmen who served aboard.Engineering Marvel and Royal Hospitality
The gleaming Engine Room stands as a tour highlight, showcasing the impressive machinery that powered this majestic vessel. The yacht also features a permanent display of the Rolls Royce car kept in its garage, symbolizing the blend of royal tradition and modern technology. The Royal Deck Tearoom, located on board, invites visitors to enjoy homemade cakes, sandwiches, and specialty teas while taking in spectacular waterfront views of Leith Harbour.Leith: Edinburgh’s Historic Harbour District
Leith, once Scotland’s principal port for wool, wine, and spices, has evolved into a vibrant cultural and shopping district. The Ocean Terminal complex, home to Britannia, integrates retail, dining, and entertainment, making it a lively gateway to the yacht. The area’s maritime heritage enriches the visitor experience, linking the Royal Yacht to Edinburgh’s broader historic and contemporary identity.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The Royal Yacht Britannia is open year-round with seasonal variations in opening hours, generally from mid-morning to late afternoon. The attraction is fully accessible, offering free audio guides, including accessible formats, and a welcoming environment for all visitors. The combination of historical immersion, stunning architecture, and scenic waterfront location makes it a memorable cultural experience for families, solo travelers, and royal enthusiasts alike.Legacy and Cultural Significance
More than a museum ship, Britannia represents a unique chapter in British history, embodying the monarchy’s relationship with the sea and international diplomacy. The yacht’s preservation allows visitors to step back in time and witness the understated elegance of royal life at sea, from state banquets to everyday moments. As Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Attraction in 2025, it continues to inspire fascination and admiration worldwide.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
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- Day Trip
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
