See stunning artwork, beautiful chapels, poignant memorials and musical performances at this ancient place of worship.

For more than 600 years, the crowned spire of St. Giles’ Cathedral has been a prominent feature of Edinburgh’s skyline.

St. Giles’ was founded as a Catholic place of worship in 1120 and switched to Protestantism after the Scottish church severed ties with Rome and the pope in 1560. It was recognized as a cathedral from the 17th century. The landmark spire was a late 15th-century addition.

St Giles’ Cathedral is the official Church of Scotland and the Mother Church of Presbyterianism. It’s named after the patron saint of beggars and disabled people.

The most elaborate part of the cathedral is the Thistle Chapel, the spiritual home of The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle. This is an order of chivalry with roots in the Middle Ages. Take your time to study the decorative and highly detailed interior with its oak carvings, ornate stonework and distinctly Scottish features such as angels with bagpipes.

The cathedral has many memorials to distinguished Scots and Scottish soldiers. They include a bronze memorial to the writer Robert Louis Stevenson and a statue to the Protestant reformer John Knox.

Try to time your visit with a musical performance. The cathedral has an extensive schedule of lunchtime concerts, organ recitals and choral pieces. Many are free. Visit the cathedral’s website for details.

Volunteer guides are available to answer questions and can conduct free guided tours on request. If you want to take photographs inside the building you’ll need a permit. These can be obtained for a small fee at the information desks at the Thistle Chapel and the main West Entrance.

St. Giles’ Cathedral is located on The Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. It’s open to visitors every day of the year except after the mid-morning service on Christmas Day, December 26, and January 1 and 2. There are different opening times at different times of the year for details check the cathedral’s website.

Plan a trip to see St. Giles' Cathedral

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Murrayfield Hotel

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found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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A lovely boutique hotel on the bus route for the city. It is full of character & although on main road we both slept like logs! V comfy bed .

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Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh - Leith Waterfront by IHG

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per person

Aug 8 - Aug 13

found 1 hour ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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8.6/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)

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RÌGH Residences

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￥421,328

per person

Aug 8 - Aug 13

found 1 hour ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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9.8/10 Exceptional! (299 reviews)

We were initially a little skeptical about the remote check-in process, but it turned out to be incredibly easy and went completely without a hitch. Our room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and well-appointed, boasting views over Frederick Street and George Street The bed was exceptionally comfortable, and the room featured all the thoughtful little extras that made our stay feel genuinely special—including proper tea and coffee facilities, fresh milk in the fridge, and delicious shortbread! We also loved the high-tech features like the automatic blinds and curtains and the room iPad; it was a new experience for us but very intuitive and easy to use. Beyond the room, the guest lounge area was both comfortable and welcoming, offering complimentary tea, coffee, and fresh pastries every day. The staff we encountered were very welcoming and seemed genuinely pleased that we had chosen to stay there . Storing luggage before check in and once we had checked out was no problem to them and day no extra charge. The location couldn't have been better, central enough that we were able to walk absolutely everywhere we needed and wanted to go. A fantastic experience from start to finish!

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2026