Top Things To Do In St Giles' Cathedral (Edinburgh) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in St Giles' Cathedral

1. 1. Guided Tour of St Giles' Cathedral

   Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of St Giles' Cathedral, the historic City Church of Edinburgh, by participating in a guided tour. This tour is an opportunity to discover the Cathedral's rich past, stretching back over 900 years. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the grand architecture and intricate stained glass windows while recounting tales of the Reformation and the influential characters in Scotland's history associated with the Cathedral. Learn about the famous crown spire that dominates the skyline of Edinburgh and the ornate Thistle Chapel, home to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's foremost order of chivalry. Insight into the cathedral's function as a working church and its role in the local community is also provided. This is not just a tour; it's a passage through time where every stone has a story to tell.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £5 per person

2. 2. Attend a Worship Service

   Experiencing a worship service at St Giles' Cathedral is a chance to participate in a centuries-old tradition of religious practice in Scotland. The cathedral, with its awe-inspiring ambiance, is not just an architectural marvel but a living centre of Christian worship. As you join the congregation under the magnificent vaulted ceiling, you will be swept away by the harmonies of the organ and choir, resonating throughout the sacred space. Join in heartfelt hymns, listen to powerful sermons, and feel the spirituality of the surroundings merge with the liturgy. This activity offers not only a religious experience but also a deep connection with the Scottish cultural heritage. Regardless of one's own beliefs, all are welcomed warmly to participate in this reflective and humbling ceremony.

   Duration: Varies per service · Price: Free

3. 3. Photography Tour

   Capture the essence of St Giles' Cathedral through your lens on a photography tour. Designed for both amateur and professional photographers, this tour provides you with the opportunity to photograph the exquisitely detailed interior of the cathedral. As you move through the sacred space, you will find yourself framing shots of the mesmerizing stained glass windows, that paint the floor with light, the grandiose stone pillars, and the delicate carvings that adorn the chapels. A photography tour guide shares insights on the best angles and times for capturing the light perfectly, as well as the history behind the images you are capturing. Whether you are looking to improve your photography skills or simply wish to take home personal recollections of this spiritual place, this tour provides both inspiration and instruction.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: £10 per person

4. 4. The St Giles Music Experience

   Embark on the St Giles Music Experience for an auditory journey through the cathedral's illustrious musical history. The experience begins with a guided tour that offers insights into St Giles' legacy as a center for music and liturgy. Following the introduction, you are treated to an exclusive organ performance, featuring the majestic Rieger organ. The rich tones of the organ fill the cathedral, providing a soundscape that is both powerful and poignant. You will also learn about the cathedral's choirs and their importance to the worship and ceremonies that take place within these historic walls. With opportunities to meet with the musicians, this experience brings you closer to the heart of St Giles' musical traditions, ranging from medieval chants to contemporary compositions.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: £12 per person

5. 5. The Thistle Chapel Visit

   Hidden within the storied walls of St Giles' Cathedral lies the Thistle Chapel, an exquisite gem of Scottish gothic architecture. This intimate chapel is the spiritual home of The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s foremost Order of Chivalry. A visit to the Thistle Chapel is an opportunity to marvel at its ornate stonework, heraldic emblems, and rich wood carvings portraying angels, knights, and nobles. Accompanied by passionate guides, visitors will learn about the traditions of the Order, the symbolism behind the artefacts, and the influential figures that have knelt in its stalls. While in the chapel, take a moment to gaze up at the chapel's vaulted ceiling, which brings the heavens into this sacred enclave.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: Included in Guided Tour or £2 as separate entry

6. 6. The History and Legends Talk

   Delve into the depths of St Giles' Cathedral's past with The History and Legends Talk, an informal yet informative session that unravels the myths and stories associated with this ancient church. You'll stand where leaders and common folk alike have stood, hearing tales of rebellion, reform, and revolution. Each pillar and stone echoes with the whispers of figures like John Knox, the fiery preacher of the Reformation, whose influence still reverberates through the Cathedral’s halls. These talks, hosted by experienced historians, are rich in narrative and detail, bringing the cathedral's chequered history to life. By the end of your visit, you'll have gained a profound appreciation of the cathedral, not just as a structure, but as a living chronicle of Scotland's tumultuous and inspiring history.

   Duration: 45 minutes · Price: £7 per person

7. 7. Art and Sculpture Trail

   The Art and Sculpture Trail at St Giles' Cathedral invites visitors to explore the church's lesser-known artistic offerings. As you traverse the aisles and chapels, you will encounter an array of sculptures, modern art installations, and religious artefacts that reveal the aesthetic evolution of the cathedral. The art pieces tell a multilayered story of faith, culture, and history; they range from ancient stone slabs carved with intricate designs to contemporary artworks that challenge and engage. Expert guides illuminate the background and significance of each piece, instilling a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistic legacy that St Giles' Cathedral protects. This trail is a feast for the eyes and a captivating journey through the cathedral's visual treasures.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: £6 per person

8. 8. Explore the Rooftop Views

   For a truly unique perspective on Edinburgh, venture on the 'Explore the Rooftop Views' activity at St Giles' Cathedral. This exclusive experience takes you high above the nave, onto the rooftop of one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks. From this vantage point, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the city, including the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and across to the Firth of Forth. As you ascend the ancient spiral staircases, you will feel a sense of adventure and history as each step brings you closer to the sky. Safety equipment and a guide are provided to ensure a secure and informative experience. This rare glimpse from above offers a quiet moment to reflect on the beauty and scale of both the cathedral and the city it overlooks.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: £8 per person

9. 9. Cathedral Explorer's Family Activity

   Tailored for young visitors and their families, the Cathedral Explorer's Family Activity turns St Giles' Cathedral into a treasure trove of discovery. This self-guided exploration provides children with activity sheets designed to engage their curiosity as they search for historic and artistic details throughout the cathedral. Interactive tasks encourage children to observe, question, and learn, making it an educational adventure. Along the way, they'll encounter the story of the brave hearted saints, the symbolic fauna and flora carved in stone and wood, and the magnificent stained glass windows' colorful stories. A family activity at St Giles' is a fun-filled way to introduce children to the concepts of history, art, and architecture, leaving them with a sense of wonder and a memorable experience.

   Duration: Self-paced · Price: £2 per activity sheet

10. 10. Seasonal Concerts and Choir Performances

    Throughout the year, St Giles' Cathedral hosts an array of seasonal concerts and choir performances that showcase the very best of local and international musical talent. Whether it is the uplifting sounds of a Christmas carol service or the passion of an Easter concert, the cathedral's acoustic properties offer the perfect setting for these soul-stirring events. Attendees will be treated to performances by esteemed ensembles, soloists, and the renowned St Giles' Cathedral Choir. The blend of music with the spiritual ambiance of the cathedral provides a truly divine experience. Each concert or performance aims to reflect the seasonal mood and is often accompanied by thematic readings. This is an ideal activity for those seeking to experience music in one of Edinburgh's most prestigious and sacred venues.

    Duration: Varies per event · Price: Varies per event, some may be free while others require a ticket purchase