Experts' Choice Award St Giles' Cathedral
What the experts agree on
St Giles' Cathedral's iconic crown spire dominates Edinburgh's skyline and Royal Mile. Inside, 15th-century interiors blend religious history with intricate details like angels playing bagpipes, plus John Knox's statue and beautiful stained glass.
“The beautiful crown spire was completed in 1495... the interior lacks grandeur but is rich in history.”
– Lonely Planet
Concierge "An imposing stone edifice punctuated by stained-glass windows, St. Giles' Cathedral looms over surrounding buildings on the Royal Mile, and its spire is a dominant feature of the city's skyline."
Fodor's "Inside the church stands a life-size statue of the Scot whose spirit still dominates the place—the great religious reformer and preacher John Knox, before whose zeal all of Scotland once trembled. " Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"This Presbyterian cathedral dates for the most part from the 15th C." Full review
Afar Magazine "This beautiful cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is located on High Street in Edinburgh. It has beautiful stained glass windows and two memorials." Full review
Atlas Obscura "The 20th-century chapel’s intricate woodwork includes amazing details, most notably angels playing bagpipes. " Full review
Frommer's "A brief walk downhill from Edinburgh Castle, this church - and its steeple in particular - is one of the most important architectural landmarks along the Royal Mile." Full review
The Guardian "I also visited 12th-century St Giles’ Cathedral as part of the Burns & Beyond culture trail, an annual event opening up unusual venues for small gigs. The cathedral is open year round."
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Rough Guide "Along the way, stop at St. Giles' Cathedral, a stunning Gothic landmark with its famous Thistle Chel, where intricately carved wooden angels play the bagpipes—a uniquely Scottish detail."
Lonely Planet "Don't speed past St Giles' Cathedral without paying your dues to history"
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