St Giles' Cathedral: The Heart of Edinburgh's Heritage
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of St Giles' Cathedral, a must-visit landmark in Edinburgh's vibrant Royal Mile.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, St Giles' Cathedral is a stunning blend of history, architecture, and spirituality. This iconic structure is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city, offering a deep insight into Scotland's religious past and cultural richness.
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 attract larger crowds.
- Don’t miss the Thistle Chapel, located within the cathedral, known for its exquisite wood carvings.
- Check the schedule for special events or concerts, which can enhance your visit with unique cultural experiences.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the cathedral's history and architecture.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area; the Royal Mile is filled with shops, cafes, and other attractions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to St Giles' Cathedral from anywhere in Scotland, you will want to navigate towards Edinburgh's city center. Use a GPS device or a mapping app to enter the address: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE. Note that parking in the city center can be limited and expensive. The nearest car parks include the NCP Car Park on Castle Terrace (EH1 2EW) or the Q-Park on St James Quarter (EH1 3AD). Expect to pay around £2-£4 per hour. Once parked, it is a short 10-15 minute walk through the Old Town to reach the cathedral.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you are traveling by train, you can catch a train to Edinburgh Waverley Station from various locations in Scotland, including Glasgow, Stirling, and Inverness. Once you arrive at Waverley Station, exit the station and walk up to the Royal Mile. This should take about 10 minutes. Follow the road signs to get to High Street, where the cathedral is located. It is approximately a 0.5-mile walk from the station.
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Public Transportation - Bus
For those coming from nearby cities, you can take a bus to Edinburgh. Local services like Lothian Buses run frequent routes into the city center. Look for buses that stop near the Royal Mile, as St Giles' Cathedral is located at the top of this historic street. The main bus terminal is located at St Andrew Square, from where you can walk 10 minutes to the cathedral. A single bus ticket costs around £1.80.
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Walking
If you are already in Edinburgh, walking to St Giles' Cathedral is a great option. The cathedral is centrally located on the Royal Mile, which is an iconic street filled with shops, restaurants, and historical sites. If you are near the Scottish Parliament or Edinburgh Castle, both are about a 15-minute walk to the cathedral. Just follow the signs to the Royal Mile, and you will find St Giles' Cathedral easily.
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