This great place of worship was first established by Edinburgh’s Catholics back in 1120. Four-and-a-half centuries later, it became a Protestant hub after the Scottish church broke away from Rome and the authority of the Pope. It officially became a cathedral in the 17th century, but with its landmark spire added much earlier, in the 15th century, St. Giles' has long been a fixture on the Edinburgh cityscape.
The cathedral today is the official Church of Scotland and the Mother Church of Presbyterianism. It takes its name from the patron saint of beggars and disabled people.
Inside the cathedral, visit the Thistle Chapel, the spiritual home of The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, a chivalric order that dates back to the Middle Ages. Take your time to explore and appreciate the ornate and elaborate interior that comprises oak carvings, intricate stonework, and features such as sculpted angels and quintessentially Scottish bagpipes.
The cathedral is also something of a cultural gem, complete with memorials to famous Scots, including a bronze tribute to author Robert Louis Stevenson and a statue of Protestant reformer John Knox, not to mention memorials to Scottish soldiers. Musical performances are also a regular feature, with a glittering array of lunchtime concerts, organ recitals and choral works to be enjoyed in these stirring surroundings. Many of these performances are free of charge to visitors. Check online before your visit to see what’s on.
There will be volunteers on hand during your visit to answer any questions you may have and to show you around on a free guided tour. Bear in mind you'll have to get a permit if you want to take photographs inside the cathedral, which you can obtain for a small fee from the information desks at the Thistle Chapel and the main West Entrance.
Situated on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town, St. Giles' Cathedral opens to visitors every day of the year, except after the Christmas Day mid-morning service and on 26th December and 1st and 2nd January. Opening times vary through the year. Visit the cathedral website for more information.
