The Royal Yacht Britannia: A Floating Royal Residence in Edinburgh
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
The Royal Yacht Britannia, permanently berthed in Leith, Edinburgh, served as the British Royal Family's sea residence for over 40 years. Now a top visitor attraction, it offers a fascinating exploration of royal life across five decks, including the State Apartments, the Bridge, the Engine Room, and the Queen’s favourite Sun Lounge. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views and refreshments in the Royal Deck Tearoom while immersing themselves in the yacht’s rich maritime history.
A brief summary to The Royal Yacht Britannia
- Ocean Dr, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 6JJ, GB
- +441315555566
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3 pm
- Friday 10 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the full audio-guided tour to fully experience all five decks and the Royal Deck Tearoom.
- Visit the Royal Deck Tearoom for freshly made scones and refreshments with beautiful views over the water.
- Check seasonal opening hours before visiting, especially around Christmas and New Year when the yacht is closed.
- The audio guide is available in over 30 languages, including BSL/ASL and Braille scripts for accessibility.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfront views and the elegant interiors of the royal residence.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Tram
Take the Edinburgh Tram from the city centre to Ocean Terminal in Leith, a direct 15–20 minute ride. Trams run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing approximately £6–£8 return. The tram stop is adjacent to the yacht’s Visitor Centre.
-
Bus
Several Lothian Bus services connect Edinburgh city centre to Leith and Ocean Terminal, including routes 22 and 36. The journey takes around 25–35 minutes, with single fares around £2.50. Buses run regularly but check schedules for evening or weekend service.
-
Car
Driving to Ocean Terminal offers on-site parking facilities, including accessible bays. Parking fees vary, typically £1–£3 per hour. Note that Leith can be busy during peak times, and parking spaces may fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
-
Taxi / Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city centre to the Royal Yacht Britannia takes about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8 to £15. This is a convenient option for groups or visitors with limited mobility.
The Royal Yacht Britannia location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Royal Yacht Britannia
A Storied Vessel of Royal Heritage
The Royal Yacht Britannia sailed the seas as the official royal residence from 1954 until 1997, covering over one million nautical miles and nearly a thousand state visits worldwide. It was a home for the British Royal Family and a venue for hosting world leaders, including Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill. After decommissioning, Britannia was permanently moored in the historic Port of Leith, Edinburgh, transforming into a celebrated museum and event venue that preserves the legacy of royal maritime life.Exploring Britannia’s Five Decks
Visitors embark on a self-guided audio tour available in over 30 languages, traversing five decks that reveal the contrasting lives of the Royal Family and the 220 crew members who served aboard. Highlights include the elegant State Apartments, the Bridge where visitors can feel like the ship’s captain, and the gleaming Engine Room. The Queen’s favourite Sun Lounge offers a glimpse into her private moments, while the Crew’s Quarters showcase the working life below decks.Modern Visitor Experience and Amenities
The tour begins at the newly opened Visitor Centre on the second floor of Ocean Terminal, featuring exhibits on the history of royal yachts dating back to 1660. After the tour, guests can relax in the Royal Deck Tearoom, enjoying freshly made soups, sandwiches, cakes, and scones with spectacular views over the waterfront. The site also includes a well-stocked shop offering exclusive royal and nautical souvenirs. Accessibility is a priority, with full wheelchair access and facilities such as restrooms and hearing loops.Preservation and Ongoing Care
Owned and maintained by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust, the yacht undergoes continuous upkeep to ensure it remains a pristine heritage attraction. The dedicated maintenance team works almost every day of the year to preserve the ship’s condition, allowing future generations to experience this unique piece of British history.Visiting Information and Seasonal Variations
The Royal Yacht Britannia is open year-round except for 1 January and 25 December. Seasonal opening hours vary: from April to September, it opens from 9:30am to 4:00pm; in winter months, from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Last admissions occur 90 minutes to two hours before closing, with visitors typically spending 1.5 to 2 hours exploring. The site welcomes guide and assistance dogs but not pets generally.Location and Surroundings
Situated just two miles from Edinburgh’s city centre, Britannia is docked alongside Ocean Terminal in Leith, a vibrant harbor district. The location offers scenic waterfront views and easy access to nearby amenities. The surrounding area blends maritime heritage with modern shopping and dining options, enhancing the overall visitor experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Forth Lock
0.7 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Robert Burns Statue
1.0 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Leith East Breakwater Lighthouse
1.1 km
Historic maritime beacon guiding ships into Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks since 1876, now a cherished symbol of nautical heritage.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.3 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Dugald Stewart Monument
3.1 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Burns Monument
3.2 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Queen Mary's Bath House
3.2 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
3.2 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
3.2 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
3.2 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Melville Monument
3.3 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
3.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
3.3 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ocean Terminal
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
0.2 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Leith Citadel
0.6 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
Teuchters Landing
0.6 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.7 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
The Leith Mural
0.7 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
Custom House Leith
0.7 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Shore
0.8 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
The King's Wark
0.8 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.9 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Lighthouse Park
0.9 km
Tranquil coastal park in Leith with iconic lighthouse views, maritime heritage, and sweeping panoramas over the Firth of Forth.
Leith
1.0 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
Fishmarket Square
1.1 km
Historic Fishmarket Square in Newhaven, Edinburgh, where maritime heritage meets vibrant community life by the Firth of Forth.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
1.2 km
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
Newhaven Harbour
1.2 km
Historic fishing village and royal dockyard site with rich maritime heritage and scenic waterfront on Edinburgh’s Firth of Forth.
Essential places to dine
The Kitchin
0.6 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Domenico's
0.7 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
Fishers
0.7 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.7 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Heron
0.9 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Tapa
0.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Leith's historic gastropub where Scottish seasons meet craft drinks, roaring fires, and port-side charm in a dog-friendly haven of flavor and vibe.
The Walnut
2.3 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
2.7 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
2.7 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
The Gardener's Cottage
2.7 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Fhior
2.8 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
2.8 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britannia Gift Shop
0.1 km
Discover exclusive royal souvenirs and nautical treasures at the Britannia Gift Shop, where the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's yacht comes alive in every carefully curated item.
Build-A-Bear
0.1 km
Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.
The Leith collective
0.3 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
0.3 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
ScotClans
0.8 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Flux
0.8 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.9 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
Destined for Home
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
Georgian Antiques
1.3 km
Explore 50,000 sq ft of Scotland's finest antiques in Leith's historic heart – from Regency cabinets to gilded mirrors in one vast warehouse.
Logan Malloch Ltd
1.4 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Wee Leith Shop
2.0 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
Planet.A Boutique
2.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Cats Miaou
2.5 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
The Dragonfly
2.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Curiouser & Curiouser
2.7 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Vine Bar
0.6 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Barologist
0.7 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
Malt & Hops
0.8 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
Three Marys
0.9 km
Leith's stylish cocktail gem with smoked margaritas, eclectic decor, and shareable plates in a historic portside nook—perfect for inventive sips and cozy evenings.
Smoke & Mirrors
1.3 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Leith Dockers Club
1.3 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
The Lioness of Leith
1.4 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
The Street
2.9 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Nightcap
3.1 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
3.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
3.3 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Last Word
3.3 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Bramble Bar
3.3 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Cask
3.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Cru
3.4 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
3.3 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Why Not Nightclub
3.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
3.4 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
3.5 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
3.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.7 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.7 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Cabaret Voltaire
3.7 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
3.8 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
3.8 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
The Liquid Room
3.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Sneaky Pete's
3.9 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
3.9 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
3.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
