Location:

St Giles’ Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, just a short walk from Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament. It is the city’s most important place of worship and has stood at the centre of Edinburgh life for nearly 900 years. With its iconic crown spire, it is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city.

Top 3 things to do at St Giles’ Cathedral:

• Explore the interior – Admire the stunning Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and intricately carved stone details inside the cathedral.

• See the Thistle Chapel – Visit the beautifully decorated chapel of the Order of the Thistle, one of Scotland’s highest honours.

• Look up at the Crown Spire – Take in the famous crown-shaped spire, one of Edinburgh’s most distinctive skyline features.

Dogs allowed:

No — dogs are not permitted inside St Giles’ Cathedral, except assistance dogs.

Entry Fees:

Free entry — admission to St Giles’ Cathedral is free, but donations are encouraged. Some special areas or guided tours may have a small fee.

More information:

St Giles’ Cathedral was founded in the 12th century and has played a central role in Scotland’s religious and political history. It was a key site during the Scottish Reformation, with reformer John Knox preaching here in the 16th century. Today, it remains an active place of worship while also serving as one of Edinburgh’s most visited historic attractions, combining centuries of history with striking architecture and cultural significance.