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St Giles' Cathedral

Name: St Giles' Cathedral
Rating: 4.6

4.6 ·

Walk into St Giles' Cathedral, the crowned Gothic landmark at the heart of the Royal Mile. Inside, take in the carved details and calm atmosphere that contrast with the busy street outside.

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Full description

St Giles' Cathedral is the Gothic Presbyterian church in the middle of the Royal Mile, where John Knox once preached, and its crown-shaped spire is one of the Old Town's most recognisable features. Founded around 1124, it is dedicated to St Giles, patron saint of lepers.

Reviewers highlight the many small architectural details inside and the calm atmosphere even when the Royal Mile outside is busy. Entry is free, and about 30 minutes is enough to walk the interior and look up at the vaulting.

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Address

High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, UK

Website

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Hours

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Booking

Walk-in

Duration

30 min

Best time

morning, lunchtime or afternoon

Intensity

Easy pace

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Good to know

Check Sunday hours, as services affect access
come in the morning for a quieter interior
look up at the crown spire from the street before going inside.

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Reviews

Really beautiful cathedral right in the middle of Edinburgh. The inside is stunning, loads of little details to look at and the atmosphere feels very calm even when it’s busy outside on the Royal Mile. Definitely worth popping in, even if you’re just walking past. Proper piece of Edinburgh history and one of those…

Aryan Patel

3/5

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