Church and Cathedral Tours in Edinburgh

Pay a visit to some of Edinburgh’s places of worship that have played significant roles in both its religious and cultural history.

Greyfriars Kirk

Greyfriars Kirk, founded in 1620, witnessed pivotal moments such as the signing of the National Covenant in 1638 and served as barracks during Cromwell’s invasion of Scotland. Equally important, its graveyard holds notable tombs, which can be explored on their private bespoke tours, which are personalised to the interests of the group.

They also offer weekly tours which are a short, information packed tour partnered with Invisible Cities and take place weekly on Wednesday afternoons at 12pm and 1pm, depending on availability and last about half an hour.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Dating back to the 12th century, the magnificent St Giles’ Cathedral boasts captivating architecture and artifacts and has been a working church for over 900 years. St Gile’s has seen the seeds of civil war sown and been John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation.

They offer daily free guided walking tours at 10:30am or 2:30pm that include highlights such as the famous Thistle Chapel, home of Scotland’s great order of chivalry, the building’s early foundations to John Knox’s Reformation and many more.

Or choose a 25-minute audio tour that leads you through the building’s secrets and stories, allowing you to stop and start at your own pace.

Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel, founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair, invites visitors to explore it’s beauty and mysterious symbolism of ornate stonework and it’s role in the Da Vinci Code. Just seven miles from the city centre, you can purchase a ticket for one of their 90-minute timeslots including: a free map to find the main carvings, an information talk, and plenty free time to visit their visitor centre, buy a souvenir, have a drink or snack in their coffee shop, and take some images.

There are also activities for kids such as costumes to try on in the visitor centre, a children’s guide, as well as games and fun souvenirs in their shop.

The Mansfield Traquair Chapel

The Mansfield Traquair Chapel, completed in 1885, reveals stunning murals by Scottish artist Phoebe Anna Traquair and architectural symbolism on their guided tours, offering a glimpse into its captivating history. Designed by the renowned artist Phoebe Anna Traquair in the late 19th century, the chapel’s interior is adorned with vibrant and detailed murals that depict biblical scenes and historical figures.

Private tours and talks can be arranged or alternatively you can visit the chapel on their open days where you are offered a free guided tour or an option to explore at your own leisure.