Royal Yacht Britannia (HMY Britannia)

Overview

The Royal Yacht Britannia is the former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now serving as a museum open to the public. It offers a unique glimpse into the royal family's life at sea and its role in official duties.

The Royal Yacht Britannia served the British royal family for over 40 years, hosting numerous state visits and official engagements.

Historical Maritime

Location

Address

Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh

Neighborhood: Leith

Coordinates

55.986600, -3.183900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

£21

Children

£10.50

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better light for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Spring blooms on deck
• Easter events

summer

warm to hot

• Extended evening hours
• Summer concerts

autumn

cool, crisp

• Autumn colors
• Harvest displays

winter

cold

• Holiday decorations
• Christmas markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring ID for discounts
Check weather and dress appropriately

What to Bring

essential

ID Tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella Scarf

not allowed

Large bags Drones Professional photography equipment without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• Uneven surfaces
• Steps and ladders on deck

Medical facilities: First aid available on site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Contactless payment

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Typical Costs

entry £20

parking £5

food £10-15

souvenirs £5-20

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Comfortable shoes for walking on deck, Walking shoes, non-slip, High heels, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance
• Official website
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• Available online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Royal Yacht Britannia App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Special offers

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Edinburgh Airport

Distance: 13 miles (21 km)

Travel Time: 30-40 minutes

taxi

£30-40 30-40 min

public_transport

£5-7 50-60 min

From City Center

Distance: 2.5 miles (4 km)

tram

£2.50 15 min

bus

£1.50 20-25 min

taxi

£10-12 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique piece of British history, beautiful setting on the waterfront

Historical Significance: Served as the royal yacht for over 40 years, hosted numerous state visits

Insider Tips

Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience
The best views of Edinburgh are from the top deck
The café offers a great selection of Scottish treats

Local Recommendations

• Try the afternoon tea at the on-site café
• Visit the nearby Ocean Terminal shopping center
• Ask the guides about their favorite royal stories

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, French, German, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

The Royal Deck

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the yacht against the sky

Result: Iconic shot of Britannia

#RoyalYachtBritannia #Edinburgh #Travel

The State Dining Room

Best Time: Daytime

Tips: Focus on the luxurious details

Result: Elegant interior shot

#RoyalInteriors #Luxury #History

The Sun Lounge

Best Time: Afternoon

Tips: Use natural light from the windows

Result: Bright and airy interior shot

#RoyalLife #InteriorDesign #Edinburgh

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor decks, Public areas

prohibited areas Private quarters, Restricted areas

flash photography not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography permit required

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed with permission

selfie sticks allowed but use discretion

Nearby Attractions

Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre

Distance: 100m

Walking: 2 min

Type: Shopping

Leith Links Park

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Park

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Event

Edinburgh Castle

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Historical Site

Reviews

4.7

Based on 12,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online in advance"
"Visit early for fewer crowds"
"Don't miss the audio guide"

Contact Information

+44 131 555 5555

info@royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

Social Media

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