Canongate Kirk: A Historic Royal Parish Church on Edinburgh's Royal Mile
Historic Canongate Kirk, a royal parish church with unique Dutch gable and serene blue interior, nestled on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Canongate Kirk, completed in 1691 and designed by architect James Smith, stands as a distinctive Presbyterian church with a Dutch-style gable and Doric portico. It serves as the parish church for the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, housing notable graves including economist Adam Smith. The church interior features a unique cruciform layout with pale blue paintwork and a celebrated Danish Frobenius organ, blending modest elegance with deep royal and local heritage.
A brief summary to Canongate Kirk
- 153 Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8BN, GB
- +441315563515
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in spring to see the twin cherry trees in bloom framing the church entrance.
- Explore the kirkyard to find graves of notable Scots like Adam Smith and poet Robert Fergusson.
- Attend a concert or event during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for a unique cultural experience.
- Look for the stag’s antlers and cross emblem atop the church, symbolizing local royal legend.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the Kirk’s royal connections and architectural history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 35 or 36 from Edinburgh city centre, with a journey time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Buses stop near the Royal Mile; expect regular service every 10 to 15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80–£2.00 GBP single.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to the York Place stop, then walk about 15 minutes downhill along the Royal Mile to Canongate Kirk. The tram journey takes about 10 minutes from the city centre, with tickets costing approximately £1.80 GBP single.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Edinburgh to Canongate Kirk takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing roughly £7–£12 GBP. Taxis are readily available but may be limited during festival seasons.
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Walking
From Edinburgh city centre, a walk to Canongate Kirk along the Royal Mile takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes on mostly paved urban terrain, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
Canongate Kirk location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Canongate Kirk
A Royal Foundation and Historical Significance
Canongate Kirk was constructed between 1688 and 1691 following a royal mandate by King James VII, who repurposed Holyrood Abbey for the Roman Catholic Order of the Thistle. This forced the local Church of Scotland congregation to relocate, prompting the use of funds from a mortification left by Thomas Moodie, a wealthy merchant and treasurer of Edinburgh, to finance the new church. Moodie's coat of arms and a commemorative plaque remain prominently displayed above the church entrance, symbolizing his lasting legacy. The Kirk has since maintained close ties to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, serving as their parish church and hosting royal worship services including visits by Queen Elizabeth II in 1952.Architectural Distinctiveness and Interior Character
Designed by James Smith, a notable 17th-century Scottish architect, Canongate Kirk features an unusual Dutch-style curvilinear gable topped by a golden cross set between stag antlers—a symbol linked to King David I’s legendary encounter with a white stag in the nearby forest. The church’s exterior also includes a small Doric-columned portico. Inside, the Kirk departs from typical post-Reformation Scottish church designs with its cruciform layout and Romanesque basilica style. The interior is painted in pale blue and white, creating a serene and modest atmosphere that contrasts with grander ecclesiastical spaces. Renovations over time have removed earlier Victorian-era alterations, restoring the original simplicity and enhancing natural light.Musical Heritage and Memorials
Canongate Kirk was among the first Church of Scotland buildings to install an organ in 1874. The current Danish Frobenius organ, installed in 1998, was the 1000th instrument produced by the maker and honors the late Very Rev Dr Ronald Selby Wright. The church also displays military colours and honours, reflecting its role as the regimental church for The Royal Regiment of Scotland. The surrounding kirkyard is the final resting place of prominent Edinburgh figures such as economist Adam Smith, poet Robert Fergusson, and Agnes MacLehose, known as Robert Burns’ muse “Clarinda.”Community Role and Cultural Events
Beyond its religious function, Canongate Kirk remains an active community hub. It hosts concerts and events, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and offers guided tours that delve into its rich history and architecture. The churchyard features informational plaques and the old Mercat Cross of the Canongate, connecting visitors with Edinburgh’s civic heritage. Twin cherry trees planted by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip flank the entrance, blooming in spring and adding seasonal charm.Symbolism and Local Legends
The stag’s antlers and cross motif, prominent on the church’s facade and interior decorations, derive from a medieval legend of King David I’s miraculous vision of a white stag with a cross between its antlers. This emblem links the Kirk to the nearby Holyrood Abbey’s origins and the spiritual heritage of the area. The church’s modest yet evocative design invites reflection on the blending of royal history, local tradition, and Presbyterian worship.Preservation and Restoration Efforts
Canongate Kirk has undergone several restorations, notably in the early 1950s when Victorian galleries and partitions were removed to restore light and dignity to the interior. Further refurbishment in 1991 and the organ installation in 1998 reflect ongoing efforts to preserve the church’s historical and cultural significance. The building’s Craigleith sandstone construction ties it to Edinburgh’s architectural heritage, sharing material lineage with landmarks such as Nelson’s statue in London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Fergusson Statue
0.0 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Burns Monument
0.2 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
0.4 km
Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.4 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Queen Mary's Bath House
0.4 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
0.4 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.4 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
0.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
North Bridge
0.6 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
South Bridge
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh at South Bridge, a lively hub that connects the city's past with its modern vibrancy.
Mercat Tours
0.6 km
Uncover Edinburgh's captivating stories with Mercat Tours – your gateway to the city's historical and haunted heritage.
Edinburgh
0.6 km
Explore Edinburgh, a city rich in history and culture, with stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes.
124 High St
0.6 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
The People's Story Museum
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s working-class heritage through immersive exhibits and personal stories in a historic 16th-century landmark on the Royal Mile.
Museum of Edinburgh
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history in a charming 16th-century building on the Royal Mile, featuring iconic artifacts and engaging exhibitions.
Edinburgh World Heritage
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a city alive with history and culture.
Dunbars Close
0.1 km
Discover Dunbars Close, Edinburgh’s secret garden oasis offering peaceful charm and historic ambiance on the Royal Mile.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Jacob's Ladder
0.2 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
Regent Rd
0.3 km
Tranquil urban park and historic street offering stunning views and cultural landmarks in the heart of Edinburgh.
White Horse Close
0.3 km
Discover White Horse Close, a picturesque 17th-century courtyard and former coaching inn steeped in Edinburgh’s royal and social history.
The Chocolatarium
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
Scottish Parliament Building
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s modern democratic heart with free tours, debates, and iconic architecture in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Monument to the Scottish Parliament
0.3 km
Explore Scotland’s bold and modern seat of democracy, where architecture and politics intertwine in Edinburgh’s historic heart.
The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier gin destination with immersive tours, bespoke blends, and stunning city views at The Arches.
Little Fish Tours
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
Dynamic Earth
0.3 km
Explore Earth’s incredible story through immersive science, interactive exhibits, and a stunning planetarium at Edinburgh’s Dynamic Earth.
Essential places to dine
Tolbooth Tavern
0.0 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.3 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
0.3 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Monteiths
0.4 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.5 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
Howies Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
The Piper's Rest
0.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.6 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Duck & Waffle
0.6 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
The Gardener's Cottage
0.7 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Number One
0.7 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
The Botanist Edinburgh
0.7 km
A lush botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering creative cocktails, hearty British fare, and live music in a vibrant garden setting.
Ecco Vino
0.7 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Twenty Princes Street
0.7 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wyrd Shop
0.0 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Ragamuffin
0.3 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Holyrood Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
Real Scot Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.4 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.5 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Galaxy
0.6 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.6 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pure Scottish
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.6 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.3 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whistlebinkies
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.6 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.6 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Captain's Bar
0.7 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Cask
0.7 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.7 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
0.8 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Street
0.8 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Frankenstein
0.9 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Artisan Bar
0.9 km
A classic Edinburgh pub with ornate charm, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming vibe for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.5 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.6 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.6 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
1.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Why Not Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
1.1 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Garibaldi's
1.2 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
1.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
