St Giles' Cathedral: A Majestic Jewel of Edinburgh
Explore the architectural wonder of St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh's spiritual heart and a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
St Giles' Cathedral, an iconic landmark on the Royal Mile of Edinburgh, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. As the mother church of Presbyterianism, it features a beautiful Thistle Chapel and an impressive interior that captivates visitors with its intricate stained glass windows and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore this architectural masterpiece while soaking in the spiritual ambiance of one of Scotland's most significant religious sites.
A brief summary to St Giles' Cathedral
- High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE, GB
- +441312260674
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be crowded with tourists.
- Check the Cathedral’s schedule for music concerts and special services that offer a unique experience.
- Take time to explore the Thistle Chapel, often missed by visitors but absolutely stunning.
- Don't skip the surrounding areas; the Royal Mile has plenty of shops and eateries for a complete Edinburgh experience.
- Use public transport or walk to avoid parking hassles and enjoy the beautiful streets of Edinburgh.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Edinburgh city centre. From Midlothian, you can take the A7 or A701 towards Edinburgh. Once in the city, follow signs for the city centre. You can use the postcode EH1 1RE for your GPS. There are several parking options nearby, including NCP Edinburgh St James, which charges approximately £20 for a full day. After parking, it’s about a 10-minute walk to St Giles' Cathedral. Head northwest on St James Square, then turn left onto Leith Street. Continue on to the High Street, and St Giles' Cathedral will be on your right.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach St Giles' Cathedral via public transport, you can take a bus from various locations in Midlothian to Edinburgh city centre. Look for Lothian Buses service 33, which takes you directly to the city. The bus fare is around £1.80 for a single journey. Once you arrive at the city centre, get off at the 'St Andrew Square' stop. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk: head west along George Street, then turn right onto High Street, where you’ll find St Giles' Cathedral.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you prefer train travel, you can take a train from Midlothian stations like Gorebridge or Newtongrange to Edinburgh Waverley Station. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. Train fares vary but expect to pay around £5. From Waverley Station, exit and walk up the steps towards the Royal Mile. Turn left on the Royal Mile and continue walking until you reach High Street. St Giles' Cathedral will be on your right.
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