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Photo courtesy of Colin Smith
St. Giles' Cathedral
Type: Historic Sites, Religious Sites
10Best Says
There has been a church on the site of this cathedral since the 9th century. St. Giles' Cathedral was built in 1120, and it has served an important role in Scottish religion as the Mother Church of... Read More
There has been a church on the site of this cathedral since the 9th century. St. Giles' Cathedral was built in 1120, and it has served an important role in Scottish religion as the Mother Church of Presbyterianism. John Knox led the Scottish Reformation from St. Giles and it is still in use today.
The pre-Raphaelite stained glass is amazing. It is also well worth seeing the chapel of the Order of the Thistle, the highest Scottish chivalric order, established in 1910. When you are finished exploring you can also descend into the crypt, where there is an unpretentious coffee shop. You can't miss its famed crown spire on the Royal Mile and entry is free.
Hours:
- May: -; Sep Mon-Fri; 9am-7pm
- Sat: 9am-5pm
- Sun: 1pm-7pm Oct; -; Apr Mon-Sat; 9am-5pm
- Sun: 1pm-5pm
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Simon Hill
Edinburgh Local Expert
- Free Things to Do, Historic Sites: "The stained glass and incredible ornamentations inside St. Giles Cathedral can hardly fail to capture your imagination. If you want to film or take photographs then you should pick up a permit at the Information Desk, it only costs £2."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: You won't soon forget St. Giles Cathedral as stepping through the doors is like stepping back in time.
- Best for Historic Sites Because: St Giles lies at the heart of Edinburgh, and it's religious and social history
