Address: High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE, United Kingdom
Phone: +441312260674
Rating: 4.6
based on 351 reviews.
Accessibility & Location
Pros:
"It's free and you can make a donation. Prince Charles has visited this cathedral on one of his visits to Edinburgh."
"A quick visit during your stay in Edinburgh, check out this cathedral that's almost 1,000 years old and explore the local history."
"The fact that it's free and conveniently located in the city centre makes it a place you simply must come and visit."
"This charming cathedral is located right down the street from Edinburgh Castle."
"Situated at the heart of Edinburgh Old Town you'll find the spectacular St Giles' Cathedral."
"Close to Edinburgh Castle St Giles cathedral on the Royal Mile at the Old Parliament Square is worth taking the time to visit and see."
"The cathedral is located in the center of the Royal Mile. The oldest part of the building - four massive central columns - dates back to the 12th century."
Cons:
"It was closed for a couple of days over the time we were there even tho it was supposed to be open so if you are not spending too much time in Edinburgh and you want to visit this church better call to confirm the opening times."
"It would be difficult for a wheelchair user to access the Cathedral."
"It's freezing cold so not always open because they can't keep staff in there to protect it. That said, they'll open it happily if folks are there to ogle it."
"It's a shame some sections were closed off due to restrictions."
Architecture & Aesthetics
Pros:
"This place is a wonder to behold."
"The cathedral is an architectural masterpiece, with beautiful ceilings and window decorations."
"Stunning cathedral with many interesting details."
"The cathedral's grandeur and serene atmosphere create a captivating ambiance, inviting visitors to reflect and admire the intricate details of the craftsmanship."
"The cathedral's stunning Gothic design, with its intricate stone carvings and soaring spires, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era."
"An outstanding cathedral in the heart of Edinburgh, I would recommend the guided tour which gives you an added insight into the history & architecture."
"Beautiful cathedral with awesome architecture with absolutely mesmerizing handiwork and intricate ceilings."
Cons:
"WHY is the stonework inside and out so dirty."
"I always find the interior a dark and gloomy place."
"It looked rather dull on the outside."
"Decoration of the architecture is plain."
Photography & Donations
Pros:
"Awesome Scottish cathedral. Free entry, but rather than a no photo policy (like Westminster Abbey), a £2 donation lets you take as many photos as you want."
"You can take pictures if you pay, but the tax is not that big."
"For £2 you can also buy a permit to allow you to take pictures inside the cathedral."
"Free entrance, but you must pay a pound or two for a sticker to be allowed to take photographs inside."
"You have to buy a photography permit but it's well worth it to take the memories of the place away with you."
"If you want to take pictures, there is a £2 photo fee and you get a sticker to wear to show that you're allowed to take pictures."
"It does cost £2 to take pictures if you are extremely into photography go for it."
Cons:
"The only downside is that you have to pay to take pictures but it's just one pound so pretty affordable."
"Historic location that is free to enter, but will ask for £5 donations. You are not allowed to take pictures of the interior unless you buy a £2 photo sticker."
"Not a fan of the two pound 'photo license' though."
"The only down is that you have to pay for permission to take pictures inside £2."
"And don't forget to pay the fee for taking photos."
"Entrance fee is voluntary suggested donations of five pounds per visit plus two pounds to all those who want to take pictures."
Atmosphere & Experience
Pros:
"Regular worship services, concerts, and events are held within its sacred walls, providing a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Scotland."
"Sit and meditate or maybe say a prayer for yourself, family or even mankind."
"Open close to Christmas where we were lucky enough to hear the brass band preparing for a performance. The ambience was incredible."
"Absolutely astonishingly beautiful, this is a cathedral experience you shan't be forgetting in a hurry once you gaze upon the simply magnificent architecture."
"The atmosphere within the cathedral is of tranquility and serenity."
"Outside the world is going mad in a busy city, but inside the Cathedral you are taken back through time with a still magic."
"What a restful, welcoming feel this Cathedral had."
Cons:
"Went there for a concert. Was a bit disappointed. Took place far end of the cathedral I couldn't see singers for a pillar like many I assume."
"You cannot miss this cathedral if you are in and around Royal Mile. The cathedral won't disappoint you, but if you have seen many of the classics around the world, this one can seem a lil smaller and not so artistic on comparison."
"I had not noticed the 'no photos sign' and was about to take one photo and suddenly was stormed by a church staff telling me not to photograph."
"The people who volunteer in here or work in here watch you like hawks those if your going to try to take a sneaky photo there pounce on you like a jaguar and get you to delete it."
"Truly a stunning building, it's just a shame the staff there were so unpleasant."
"Beautiful building with important historical significance. On the contrary, it is very unwelcoming for being a Christian church, but that is only due to the people who work/volunteer there."
"I am disappointed. This cathedral has an opportunity to share The Gospel with people from all over the world. Instead, they disregard the great commission and seek to get money from tourists."
Facilities & Services
Pros:
"The person at the front desk was very friendly and kind."
"There is also a gift shop with lots of little trinkets and things."
"There is an adjacent shop which sells quality goods associated with the cathedral."
"Even with it's flaws it has a caffe and public restroom."
"Cafe downstairs reasonable prices with homemade dishes."
"Thoroughly enjoyable Cathedral with a cafe downstairs and a special side chapel only open certain hours of the day."
"There is a shop where you can purchase tea and coffee downstairs."
Cons:
"The space is a little crowded with souvenir stands and it takes away from the experience."
"There is a cafe and souvenir shop at the side of the cathedral but prices are very high. Expect huge crowds during weekends or holiday periods."
"The cafeteria in the basement isn’t exactly cute or anything, but it has a friendly staff and the food looked (and smelled) good."