Very beautiful church, impressive architecture. I didn’t like the way they commercialize lighting candles there, makes it somehow less attractive and private to me, also I didn’t like the donation request before even entering, next to 3 other stations you passed by in the church of such requests, but besides the church is worth the time and attention, it’s very gorgeous and for sure something to look at!

St Giles’ Cathedral is a magnificent landmark in the heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, and our visit was truly memorable. The Cathedral’s Gothic architecture is stunning, from its soaring crown steeple to the intricate stonework and peaceful chapels inside. It’s a place where history feels alive in every corner. St Giles’ has been at the center of Scottish religious and civic life for nearly 900 years. It played a pivotal role in the Scottish Reformation and is closely associated with John Knox, the influential 16th‑century reformer who served as its minister. Although the original churchyard no longer survives, Knox’s grave is still marked just outside the Cathedral in parking space 23, a humble but powerful reminder of his impact. It’s absolutely worth seeking out during your visit. Inside the Cathedral, you’ll find memorials to many notable figures, including James Graham, the Marquis of Montrose, and Archibald Campbell, the Marquis of Argyll, whose turbulent political and religious legacies shaped Scotland’s history. The Thistle Chapel, home to the Order of the Thistle (Scotland’s highest order of chivalry), is a breathtaking masterpiece of woodcarving and symbolism. We had a lovely time exploring this beautiful and historic space. Whether you’re drawn by architecture, Scottish history, or simply a quiet place to reflect, St Giles’ Cathedral is a must‑see when visiting Edinburgh.

St. Giles’ Cathedral, also known as Edinburgh’s High Kirk or Church, is one of the most remarkable landmarks in the Royal Mile, a jaw-dropping Gothic temple of great historical importance and, of course, a must-visit if you’re in town. You can’t really miss St. Giles Cathedral when you are walking on Royal mike, its looming presence in the Old Town of Edinburgh means its visible from all over the city. St Giles' Cathedral is the largest of Edinburgh's Old Town churches, and sits right on the Royal Mile at the heart of the medieval city. One of Scotland’s most important medieval buildings the current structure was begun in the 14th century and has been a centre of Scottish historical events ever since. St. Giles’ cathedral was always a hub for urban life, both as a place of worship in Edinburgh and as a cultural symbol for Scotland. The church also has a large stained glass window commemorating Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, above the main entrance on the west side of the building The Cathedral is free to enter with donations welcome

Visited St Giles Cathedral the day before I returned home from an enjoyable break in Scotland. Admission was free, but on entering I was invited to make a voluntary donation (minimum £6). Reasonable I thought, given both the importance of this church and the beauty of its architecture. It dates from the 12th century, and there's a wealth of fine stone carving both inside and out. The interior is very impressive, with massive pillars, majestic arches, beautiful stained glass windows, and many interesting memorials, including one to Queen Elizabeth II, who lay in state here after her death at Balmoral in 2022. The Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, who was born in Edinburgh, is also commemorated here. I found the cathedral staff both friendly and welcoming, and I was surprised to find that dogs are also welcome inside if they're on a lead. There are free guided tours, rooftop tours, or you can download an audio guide for £5.50, but I was happy to look around at my own pace. The highlight for me was undoubtedly the ornate Thistle Chapel, with its magnificent carved ceiling and intricate oak stalls decorated with heraldic figures. It can get very crowded however, and you have to go down 4 steps to enter it, so it's not wheelchair accessible ( but the rest of the cathedral is). There's also a lovely gift shop near the cathedral entrance where I bought a couple of books. It's well worth spending an hour or two in this lovely cathedral when visiting Edinburgh.

St. Giles Cathedral, a beautiful and stunning architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of Royal Mile, is a must-visit in Edinburgh. Its impressive and picturesque exterior and interior, adorned with awe-inspiring stonework and stained glass, leave visitors in awe. While the cathedral is free to enter, donations are recommended. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season and time of day. A small souvenir shop inside offers a variety of items to take home. Afterward, relax on the chairs and immerse yourself in the cathedral’s beauty. Overall, St. Giles Cathedral is a highly recommended addition to your Edinburgh itinerary.