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The steeple is one of the visible landmarks in Edinburgh, better at night because it's lit up. You'll pass by this numerous times as it's in Royal Mile and a meeting point for many of the tours that happen in Edinburgh. You'll pass can feel the history and see the age of the building. I love it especially at night when there are less people, you can really admire the exterior and you can see how the additions and changes over hundreds of years have all settled nicely into one holistic vision. Inside, it almost feels like you are in a creepy video game. The chapels that were added have a nice secluded quality from the main areas and there are old tombs and underground areas that can be explored, many of which open up into shockingly grand spaces. The only negative is it's an extremely popular destination for tourists like myself and it's hard catching it with no one else around.
If you're in Scotland this is a landmark of pure historic Edinburgh, that should be on your to do list. Standing nine hundred and one years, this church is currently guided under Presbyterian faith, although the founding religion was under Roman rule and ideology. A deacon wearing a red robe holding a boook with zero facial expression, stood motionless at the top of the cement stairs until a visitor approached and then opened the rust colored steel doors for entry (for some reason I think he's sick of photos). The interior of the church is free to view but they gently request donations. You only need about ten minutes here and onto the next sight.
Beautiful place, but please note that donations are welcome, not mandatory. When we arrived, a kind young man explained that there were no tickets to purchase, though donations were appreciated. However, upon leaving, a lady was suggesting that £5-6 was the 'correct' amount to give, which felt a bit contradictory.
This cathedral has been around since the 11th century and it does make you wonder how they built this marvel which I would think is hard to build now. It truly is an awe-inspiring church. The gothic style is spectacular and the wood carvings are so intricate. Whether you are religious or not, this is a must visit and a wonderful place to step back, practice gratitude and pray/meditate.
If these walls could talk... she has 900 years of history. The major thing I noticed in this church were all the crowns, Parliament insignias and references to government. No separation of church and state then. This is a beautiful medieval church. This church was instrumental during the Scottish Reformation and the Covenanters' Rebellion which has led to it being called "the Mother Church of World Presbyterianism".
This place is stunning!! You can enter for free, but they do suggest a 6 pound donation, which I think is worth it. There are so many plaques commemorating different military groups, which I was not expecting, but very beautiful. There's so much to see, you could probably spend a good hour in there and not be bored. I did overhear an attendant inform another visitor that it is an active church, so you could attend a service if you plan it. Definitely a must see!
St. Giles' Cathedral is a stunning church, just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, with a history dating back to 1124, when it was founded by King David I. Despite losing its' Cathedral status as a Presbyterian church, the name of the church seems to have stuck, yet is sometimes referred to as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, it's still a stunning church and building, which is a popular tourist attraction in Scotland. (Presbyterianism does not have bishops, therefore they do not have cathedrals) You are able to visit and pass through the site for free, where you can sit down, pray and admire the beauty of the church while lighting a candle for a loved one, donations are obviously encouraged. The architecture with the stained glass windows is unique and beautiful and well worth a visit to admire, regardless of whether one is religious or not. I would say the outside could go with a bit of a clean, but well worth a visit for sure, a landmark you can't miss when walking up to Edinburgh Castle, along the Royal Mile. 4*
St Giles' Cathedral, dates back to 1124, and has been an active church ever since, surviving religious upheaval periods. In great condition, right in the heart of Old Town. Has historical signs, stained glass windows, great craftsmanship, and is free! Gives a great sense of Scotland religious history.
St. Giles is quite the landmark in Edinburgh, and you can't miss it walking along the Royal Mile. Although the church dates to the 14th century, most of what you see is the result of a 19th century restoration. The interior is impressive, but not much sets it apart from other churches throughout the UK. The stained glass is beautiful, and the architecture ornate. More impressive than the building itself is the fact that a church has stood there since AD 894 and that it serves as the mother church of Presbyterianism.
They were having a church service from 1200-1215 when we visited (seems they do this daily), but they welcome the public as long as you're respectful and quiet. The stained glass windows were absolutely beautiful! If you've been to a lot of churches around Europe, this one may seem a tad underwhelming but still well worth a visit. And it's along the royal mile anyway so it would be hard to miss it while you're there. Free to enter but they "recommend" a 5.00gbp donation. There was also a strange sign way in the back of the church that said you needed to buy a "photo permit" in the shop for 2gbp but it wasn't clear what this was actually for.
Beautiful small cathedral just off the Royal Mile. Beautiful stained glass windows and the architecture is stunning. It's really worth a stop. We sat inside for a short time and despite the number of visitors walking thru, it's very peaceful. There's a gift shop off to the side and a cafe on a lower floor.
This cathedral is stunning, both inside and out. It's free to get in, but if you want to take pictures, it'll cost you £2. We're tourists on vacation, so of course we paid the £2 to take as many pictures as possible! This isn't as big Westminster Abbey, and maybe it isn't as old, either, but it's definitely impressive in its own right. The stained glass windows are beautiful, and the different architectural pieces - columns, statues, etc. - are all wonderful to gaze at. I don't know if they do tours - there was one gentleman giving very good information to a couple not far from us at one point, but I couldn't tell if he worked there, or if he was just a family friend. Tours would be awesome - either of the guided or audio variety, but I can see how that might be more work than it's worth. There are a few different nooks and crannies to explore inside, plus a little cafe, if you're feeling peckish. There are also people who definitely do work there milling around should you have questions (and to check that you have the photo pass). We were there maybe an hour - it couldn't have been much longer than that - but it was a nice way to pass the time.
Another must-visit location in Old Town Edinburgh - we stopped by after visiting the Castle and had a magical experience. While walking along the aisles and pews and enjoying the stained glass windows, exceptional masonry, gothic architecture and the magnificent vaulted Scottish blue ceiling, the most haunting melodies floated towards us from the far end of the cathedral. It was a choir of young ladies, singing the most beautiful songs. We stayed rooted to where we were, then started making our way towards them. The singing went on for several minutes, and we quietly listened, adding another special memory to our family's trip to Scotland. read more
St. Giles' Cathedral, also known as Edinburgh's High Kirk or Church, is one of the most remarkable landmarks in the Royal Mile, a jaw-dropping Gothic temple of great historical importance and, of course, a must-visit if you're in town. You can't really miss St. Giles Cathedral when you are walking on Royal mike, its looming presence in the Old Town of Edinburgh means its visible from all over the city. St Giles' Cathedral is the largest of Edinburgh's Old Town churches, and sits right on the Royal Mile at the heart of the medieval city. One of Scotland's most important medieval buildings the current structure was begun in the 14th century and has been a centre of Scottish historical events ever since. St. Giles' cathedral was always a hub for urban life, both as a place of worship in Edinburgh and as a cultural symbol for Scotland. The church also has a large stained glass window commemorating Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, above the main entrance on the west side of the building The Cathedral is free to enter with donations welcome read more
While in Edinburgh, I signed up for a tour of St. Giles Cathedral. I signed up through a website and it was a free tour. I had other friends sign up for the same time slot. The tour guide was a volunteer and he was informative. The cathedral was beautiful inside and out. I absolutely loved it! read more
The steeple is one of the visible landmarks in Edinburgh, better at night because it's lit up. You'll pass by this numerous times as it's in Royal Mile and a meeting point for many of the tours that happen in Edinburgh. You'll pass can feel the history and see the age of the building. I love it especially at night when there are less people, you can really admire the exterior and you can see how the additions and changes over hundreds of years have all settled nicely into one holistic vision. Inside, it almost feels like you are in a creepy video game. The chapels that were added have a nice secluded quality from the main areas and there are old tombs and underground areas that can be explored, many of which open up into shockingly grand spaces. The only negative is it's an extremely popular destination for tourists like myself and it's hard catching it with no one else around. read more
If you're in Scotland this is a landmark of pure historic Edinburgh, that should be on your to do list. Standing nine hundred and one years, this church is currently guided under Presbyterian faith, although the founding religion was under Roman rule and ideology. A deacon wearing a red robe holding a boook with zero facial expression, stood motionless at the top of the cement stairs until a visitor approached and then opened the rust colored steel doors for entry (for some reason I think he's sick of photos). The interior of the church is free to view but they gently request donations. You only need about ten minutes here and onto the next sight. read more
10 months ago
Beautiful place, but please note that donations are welcome, not mandatory. When we arrived, a kind young man explained that there were no tickets to purchase, though donations were appreciated. However, upon leaving, a lady was suggesting that £5-6 was the 'correct' amount to give, which felt a bit contradictory. read more
This cathedral has been around since the 11th century and it does make you wonder how they built this marvel which I would think is hard to build now. It truly is an awe-inspiring church. The gothic style is spectacular and the wood carvings are so intricate. Whether you are religious or not, this is a must visit and a wonderful place to step back, practice gratitude and pray/meditate. read more
If these walls could talk... she has 900 years of history. The major thing I noticed in this church were all the crowns, Parliament insignias and references to government. No separation of church and state then. This is a beautiful medieval church. This church was instrumental during the Scottish Reformation and the Covenanters' Rebellion which has led to it being called "the Mother Church of World Presbyterianism". read more
This place is stunning!! You can enter for free, but they do suggest a 6 pound donation, which I think is worth it. There are so many plaques commemorating different military groups, which I was not expecting, but very beautiful. There's so much to see, you could probably spend a good hour in there and not be bored. I did overhear an attendant inform another visitor that it is an active church, so you could attend a service if you plan it. Definitely a must see! read more
3 years ago
St. Giles' Cathedral is a stunning church, just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, with a history dating back to 1124, when it was founded by King David I. Despite losing its' Cathedral status as a Presbyterian church, the name of the church seems to have stuck, yet is sometimes referred to as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, it's still a stunning church and building, which is a popular tourist attraction in Scotland. (Presbyterianism does not have bishops, therefore they do not have cathedrals) You are able to visit and pass through the site for free, where you can sit down, pray and admire the beauty of the church while lighting a candle for a loved one, donations are obviously encouraged. The architecture with the stained glass windows is unique and beautiful and well worth a visit to admire, regardless of whether one is religious or not. I would say the outside could go with a bit of a clean, but well worth a visit for sure, a landmark you can't miss when walking up to Edinburgh Castle, along the Royal Mile. 4* read more
St Giles' Cathedral, dates back to 1124, and has been an active church ever since, surviving religious upheaval periods. In great condition, right in the heart of Old Town. Has historical signs, stained glass windows, great craftsmanship, and is free! Gives a great sense of Scotland religious history. read more
2 years ago
Beautiful cathedral in the historic old Edinburgh. It's free to visit but a donation is suggested. It was very crowded for a Tuesday afternoon so I'm guessing the weekends are even more crowded. read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
St. Giles is quite the landmark in Edinburgh, and you can't miss it walking along the Royal Mile. Although the church dates to the 14th century, most of what you see is the result of a 19th century restoration. The interior is impressive, but not much sets it apart from other churches throughout the UK. The stained glass is beautiful, and the architecture ornate. More impressive than the building itself is the fact that a church has stood there since AD 894 and that it serves as the mother church of Presbyterianism. read more
They were having a church service from 1200-1215 when we visited (seems they do this daily), but they welcome the public as long as you're respectful and quiet. The stained glass windows were absolutely beautiful! If you've been to a lot of churches around Europe, this one may seem a tad underwhelming but still well worth a visit. And it's along the royal mile anyway so it would be hard to miss it while you're there. Free to enter but they "recommend" a 5.00gbp donation. There was also a strange sign way in the back of the church that said you needed to buy a "photo permit" in the shop for 2gbp but it wasn't clear what this was actually for. read more
Beautiful small cathedral just off the Royal Mile. Beautiful stained glass windows and the architecture is stunning. It's really worth a stop. We sat inside for a short time and despite the number of visitors walking thru, it's very peaceful. There's a gift shop off to the side and a cafe on a lower floor. read more
11 years ago
This cathedral is stunning, both inside and out. It's free to get in, but if you want to take pictures, it'll cost you £2. We're tourists on vacation, so of course we paid the £2 to take as many pictures as possible! This isn't as big Westminster Abbey, and maybe it isn't as old, either, but it's definitely impressive in its own right. The stained glass windows are beautiful, and the different architectural pieces - columns, statues, etc. - are all wonderful to gaze at. I don't know if they do tours - there was one gentleman giving very good information to a couple not far from us at one point, but I couldn't tell if he worked there, or if he was just a family friend. Tours would be awesome - either of the guided or audio variety, but I can see how that might be more work than it's worth. There are a few different nooks and crannies to explore inside, plus a little cafe, if you're feeling peckish. There are also people who definitely do work there milling around should you have questions (and to check that you have the photo pass). We were there maybe an hour - it couldn't have been much longer than that - but it was a nice way to pass the time. read more
Beautiful cathedral located on the Royal Mile. We attended Sunday mass at 10am and were awed by the beautiful sounds of the choir and tremendous pipe organ. We returned for a free 6pm pipe organ "concert" which was excellent. read more
9 years ago
A beautiful Cathedral located right by tourist central- the Royal Mile. Many paid tours of Edinburgh will cover this area and there is a rich history here worth looking in to (as if I'd spoil it by sharing it with you on here!) Entering the Cathedral, you'll forget you're right in the city. It's a peaceful and beautiful building to look at, regardless of creed. You can walk around or just take some time to sit and enjoy the space. One of my favourite places to just sit and chill when I come to this end of town and its well worth the visit at least once. read more
5 years ago
8 years ago
Beautiful cathedral located on the Royal Mile in old town Edinburgh is a great place to visit. Free to enter but if you want to take pictures, you'll need to fork over £2 for a "permit". Meaning a sticker you put on your shirt. Definitely worth stopping by and recommended. read more
8 years ago
Impressive Architecture, Interesting History and It's Free! How can you not like a beautiful old church? We enjoyed talking to the staff, taking our time to look around and learning more about the history of the cathedral. If you want to take photos, pay $2 at the gift shop or front desk, and they will give you a sticker to wear signifying you have paid the fee. read more
10 years ago
An absolute must see for any local or visitor to our city. Located on the historic Royal Mile in the Old Town, it's about as central as you can get and short walking distance from many hotels and restaurants. Not only is it spectacular on the outside it's beautiful on the inside. Pay £2 and you can take photos too. Don't miss the Thistle Chapel, a fantastically ornate area hidden at the back of the cathedral. If you get the chance join one of their short and highly informative tours. Don / www.edinburghphotowalks.com read more
St Giles is not the prettiest or most dramatic of cathedrals, but has a complex and interesting history and its setting on the Royal Mile makes it an essential stop on the tourist trail, as well as a unique place to attend a service. History There has been a place of worship on the site for around 900 years, and possibly longer, as there is a record of a parish church in Edinburgh in 854AD. A Romanesque church on the present site was built in the 1120s and dedicated to St Andrew in 1243, but later rededicated to St Giles. This church was later enlarged in the Gothic style, and the present choir, built between 1320 and 1380 is the main remnant of this building. Partially burned in 1385, it was repaired and further expanded during the 15th and 16th centuries. From this period are the Albany Aisle (1409) and the Preston Aisle (c. 1454). Private chapels were also inserted, and by the 16th century there were some 150 chapels. However, the church underwent major changes as a result of the ministry of the famous Scottish Reformation churchman, John Knox, who was Minister at St Giles 1559-1572. During this period the church was reorganised to reflect the Reformed style of worship, which included removing many of the chapels and much of the stained glass. Because of his Ministry, the church is regarded by many as the spiritual home of Presbyterianism. The building was also partitioned for other uses, which over subsequent years including a police station, fire station school and coal store. During the 17th century, the church came under Episcopal (Anglican) control, and was elevated to Cathedral status in 1635-38 and again in 1661-89; these changes reflected the tensions in Scotland of introducing Episcopalianism: in 1638, those opposed to King Charles' plans to reintroduce episcopacy in Scotland signed the National Covenant. After various power struggles, the Presbyterian Church of Scotland became the Established church, and St Giles ceased to be a Cathedral, although the name has stuck. The tensions are well illustrated by two impressive tombs in the church: those of James Graham, Marquess of Montrose, who resisted the National Covenant, and who was executed in 1650; and his opponent, Archibald Campbell, Marquess of Argyll, himself executed in 1661. Montrose was interred in the church after the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660; his memorial dates from 1880. That to Argyll, in a similar style, dates from 1894. The exterior was substantially restored in 1829, and from 1872 the partitions were removed and the interior opened up, with new stained glass windows inserted (all the glass dates from the 19th and 20th centuries). The major 20th century addition was the Thistle Chapel, built in 1911 for the Knights of the Thistle, Scotland's order of chivalry. It was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer in an elaborate 15th century high Gothic style . The church The church now dominates the central section of the Royal Mile, and its tower lantern is a prominent landmark. The area in front of the west doors has been opened up as a large and spacious square. The exterior is impressive, but most of the interest lies inside. The interior is dark and cavernous, an effect magnified by the presence of double south aisles and numerous small chapels (also referred to as aisles), the arcade arches giving a forest-like appearance. Although it has transepts, the addition of aisles and chapels give it an almost rectangular plan. The architecture is largely late Decorated and Perpendicular Gothic, although many of the windows date from the 19th century restorations. Most impressive is the Thistle Chapel which, with its complex vaulted ceilings and elaborate woodwork, is an impressive testament to early 20th century workmanship. The Chepman aisle houses Montrose's impressive memorial, complete with life-sized alabaster effigy in full 16th century military garb. Argyll also has a life-size effigy, in Civilian dress, located in St Eloi's aisle. The south Preston Aisle which leads to the Thistle Chapel, dates from 1454 and was erected to contain a relic (an arm bone) of St Giles, although this was lost in the reformation around 1560. The 15th century Albany Aisle is now dedicated to those who fell in the two World Wars, and includes memorials to the various Scottish Regiments. The church walls are covered in numerous other memorials, of varying quality and interest, predominantly from the 19th century. Practicalities Today, as well as regular worship, the church has a regular cycle of concerts and recitals. It also has a shop off the north Chancel aisle and a restaurant in the crypt, accessed from the south side of the Chancel. There is level access through much of the main body of the church, with an entrance ramp by the west door and in the Moray Aisle. read more
16 years ago
A prominent feature on Edinburgh's most famous high street, the Royal Mile, St Giles is another site synonymous with historical Edinburgh. Although it's called a Cathedral, St Giles is actually a Church of Scotland "High Kirk". It was technically only a Cathedral twice when Episcopalian groups gained control during the 17th century. Prior to the Reformation Edinburgh fell under the jurisdiction of St Andrews Cathedral, so St Giles remained merely a Church in all but name. St Giles is the patron saint of Edinburgh, for whom the Cathedral is named after. Its oldest part supposedly dates back the the 1100s (the central pillars) . But the main Church was rebuilt after a fire in the 1300s, after which bits were added over time. After the Reformation St Giles arguably gained in importance. This is, after all, where the famous (or infamous) John Knox preached. It is sometimes called "the mother church of Presbyterianism". If you couldn't tell already there is a lot of history to St Giles. You can find out more when you visit. Its many monuments and memorials and generally very pretty interior, make this Cathedral an essential tourist attraction. A notable example would be a memorial to Robert Louis Stevenson. So there's no excuse not to visit. Especially as it's free! read more
9 years ago
I was staying at the hotel which near by the St. Giles Cathedral. So although it was on my check-list, I didn't visit this place until the very end of my trip. And this cathedral was really beautiful, I was so glad I did find the time to visit it. It is free to enter the cathedral. I remember they did charge for taking picture. I gave 2 pounds back then, it is alright for me. Compared to some other cathedrals, I found the price was acceptable. Besides, such a beautiful place, I wouldn't like to miss the change. It was also quite peaceful place. Even there were quite a lot visitors, I didn't really heard heard much noise. It was quite nice and I was enjoying that and the nice artworks around. Because of its location, there are many things people could do. Cool restaurant and bars just around the corner. And from here only take about 5-8 minutes walk to the Edinburgh Castle. Sweet. read more
Visited April 2015: "Scotland's St Giles Church" When we got to the church, we discovered that you had to pay a 2 pound fee to take photographs. The Thistle room was also closed due to thievery. It is just a 10 minute walk down Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle. There are some incredible stain glass windows, mosaic floors, and there's a cafe in the reflectory. read more
11 years ago
Splendid neo-Gothic cathedral on the Royal Mile, the most stunning church in Edinburgh. Wikipedia says: "St Giles' Cathedral, more properly termed the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is the principal place of worship of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh. Its distinctive crown steeple is a prominent feature of the city skyline, at about a third of the way down the Royal Mile which runs from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. The church has been one of Edinburgh's religious focal points for approximately 900 years. The present church dates from the late 14th century, though it was extensively restored in the 19th century, and is protected as a category A listed building." As you can see from my pictures, there is a reason why this stunning piece of architecture (that is what a church is for me, I'm not religious) is a Grade I listed building. It is a MUST for visitors to the city, and if you are a returning visitor, chances are you will be returning to St. Giles, too. Frequent concerts are being held at this free of charge facility (the concerts may not always be free). It is a huge, imposing, slightly intimidating structure - which of course is the point of all such religious buildings. But today, even the not quite so penitent men (and women) will pass. ;) Amenities include toilets and a café. Photos, obviously, are allowed. Since this is a premium attraction in Edinburgh's old town, expect it to get busy during the summer months. read more
I think whether you're religious or not, you have to appreciate the awe inducing awesomeness that is St Giles Cathedral. A dominating, landmark feature of the Royal Mile, the cathedral is just beautiful in my opinion, and you have to admire the years of skill and craftmanship that have gone into creating such a structure. There is a long history to the cathedral, which you can learn about if you come here for a visit. If you're a keen Gothic architecture viewer, then this is a fine example, and there are also stained glass windows aplenty, which I guess is a pretty regular feature of most religious buildings, but I can't get enough of them, probably due to my general childlike fascination with bright colours and anything remotely distracting. Religious or not, having a walk round the wide arches of the cathedral or coming to a service is a really calming experience, and makes it a good place for getting your thoughts together in peace. read more
16 years ago
Of all the historic buildings in Edinburgh this has to be one of the best. From the moment you walk in you are surrounded by countless works of art. The most easily noticed of these are the stained glass windows that surround the cathedral. These are truly brilliant due to a combination of their rich colours and the fact that they are simply of high artistic quality. Between these great windows you will find carved stone statues also of great quality. These are littered throughout the cathedral generally in honour of a famous name now departed. It's not as peaceful as other chruches and the amount of people makes it almost principly a tourist attraction rather than a quiet place of thought such as St Marys. That said the ornamentation is superbs and the place is well worth a visit. I should also mention that in summer (May to September) on weekdays the opening hours go on till 7pm. read more
St Giles' Cathedral is a breathtakingly beautiful medieval building. Located on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile, it's an essential sight to see for the gorgeous stained glass windows, ornate steeples and exquisite interior. Another one of Edinburgh's many must visits.. read more
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St. Giles' Cathedral - churches - Updated May 2026
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