10 Things to Do in St Giles' Cathedral, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Situated in the heart of Scotland's capital city, St Giles' Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Edinburgh. This Gothic-style cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture and has been a place of worship since the 12th century. St Giles' Cathedral is a must-see when visiting Edinburgh, and here are 10 things to do when you visit this historic building.
1. Take a Tour: St Giles' Cathedral offers guided tours of the building and its grounds. The tour includes a visit to the historic crypt and a look at the beautiful stained glass windows. The tour also takes visitors through the cathedral's history, from its medieval beginnings to the present day.
2. Visit the Thistle Chapel: The Thistle Chapel is one of the most beautiful parts of St Giles' Cathedral. This chapel, built in 1911, is dedicated to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry. The chapel contains some of the most exquisite stained glass windows in the world.
3. Attend a Service: St Giles' Cathedral is an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. Services are held every Sunday at 11am and 6pm, and there are special services for holidays and other occasions.
4. Explore the Grounds: St Giles' Cathedral is surrounded by beautiful grounds, which are open to the public. There are several gardens, including the formal Garden of Remembrance, and a labyrinth. Visitors can also explore the historic graveyard, which dates back to the 15th century.
5. Visit the Museum: The St Giles' Cathedral Museum is located in the cathedral's north transept. The museum contains a variety of artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, sculptures, and furniture. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs.
6. Take a Photo: St Giles' Cathedral is a popular spot for photographers. The building's distinctive architecture makes it a great backdrop for photos, and the grounds are also picturesque.
7. Shop at the Gift Shop: The St Giles' Cathedral Gift Shop is located in the south transept. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, postcards, jewelry, and souvenirs.
8. Attend a Concert: St Giles' Cathedral hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year. The concerts range from classical music to folk music, and there are often special events such as candlelight concerts.
9. Climb the Tower: Visitors are able to climb the St Giles' Cathedral tower, which offers stunning views of Edinburgh. The climb is not for the faint of heart, however, as it is steep and narrow.
10. Enjoy a Meal: St Giles' Cathedral has a café located in the south transept. The café serves a variety of hot and cold drinks, as well as sandwiches and other light meals.
St Giles' Cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture and is an iconic landmark in Edinburgh. Whether you're looking to explore the building's history, take in the stunning views, or just enjoy a cup of coffee, St Giles' Cathedral is sure to have something for everyone.