St Giles' Cathedral
The 'mother church' of the Church of Scotland on the Royal Mile, with a crown-shaped spire and the Thistle Chapel as its highlight.
Construction began in the 12th century, and most of the surviving building dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. Its distinctive crown-shaped spire is a landmark on the Old Town skyline. John Knox, leader of the Scottish Reformation, preached here. The most exquisite feature is the Thistle Chapel, completed in 1911, where the wood carvings of angels and heraldry are extraordinarily intricate, and a small angel playing the bagpipes is hidden among them. Entry is free, though donations are encouraged, and photography costs a small fee. Guided tours of the roof require a separate ticket.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat about 10:00–18:00; Sun 13:00–17:00 (check official website)
Nearby sights
- The Real Mary King's Close
- National Museum of Scotland
- The Writers' Museum
- Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby
- Scott Monument
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- The Scotch Whisky Experience
- Scottish National Gallery