Guests' reviews
Shadi Mirza | Mar 17, 2018
I’m not a very religious person. Okay, I don’t believe in any of that stuff. With that being said, the stained glass murals at St. Giles’ Cathedral made it worth setting foot inside of a church. They were breathtaking. Is it kind of dumb that you have to pay two quid to take photos? Yeah. But it’s not like the cathedral has a ton of revenue streams. If it keeps this beautiful place open for years to come, I can deal.
Jatania Mota | Apr 1, 2018
Beautiful ceilings with amazing details. The art on the windows are very intricate with vibrant colors and images that appear 3D with the perfect lighting. Staff is very polite and friendly. The is a 2 pound fee for a permit to take photos. Donations are welcomed. There is a restroom available on the premises. There is a gift shop and cafe.
John Sweeney | Jan 12, 2018
Well kept high "kirk," very Presbyterian, that is, plain, especially the sanctuary. The Thistle Room, though, is a Must See in Edinburgh. It's freezing cold so not always open because they can't keep staff in there to protect it. That said, they'll open it happily if folks are there to ogle it. Come to think of it, the Thistle Room alone elevates it to 4 stars. Oh -- yummy cafe downstairs, too. Good soups and broths.
Alicia Daniel | Jan 4, 2018
I’m so glad I went here. It’s gorgeous and full of fascinating history. I got the guidebook for £1 and a photo permit for £2, and both were well worth it. Strongly recommend the guide, as it had some helpful tips and highlights that no one else seemed to know. The cafeteria in the basement isn’t exactly cute or anything, but it has a friendly staff and the food looked (and smelled) good.
Kashlee Kucheran | Jan 8, 2018
How can you not like a beautiful old church? We enjoyed talking to the staff, taking our time to look around and learning more about the history of the cathedral.
It's free to enter. If you want to take photos, pay $2 at the gift shop or front desk, and they will give you a sticker to wear signifying you have paid the fee.
Hunter Hendrick | Apr 5, 2018
I set foot inside it on a trip from Austin TX. Our group went in and I loved it! I am a spiritual and religious person that enjoyed talking to the staff and other tourists. I do want to attend a service here sometime. In memory of loved ones, I lit a candle for each. That day, I felt more peaceful and upbeat. It made me feel better about death and I could feel their spirits surrounding me.
Pip Sheppard | Apr 8, 2018
Second visit here at St. Giles Cathedral (first one in 1980). It may be the mother church of Presbyterianism in Scotland, but the CoS is about as far from her roots as she can get. The lighting was much better on this visit. Dark and gloomy last time. Paying £2 to take pics was better than buying them in the tourist traps. Lovely architecture and a moving place. The history of the place is presented well.
Burckhardt Krieg | May 8, 2018
A absolute must to see this magnificent design and perfect workmanship for constructing this Gothic Cathedral.
Even if you are not a religious person , just step inside and see the astonishing tinted murals.
If you are in Edinburgh take the 2 hours or more and visit this Cathedral to see the fine detailed art.
It will cost some money for photographing and guided tour.
Kurt Kriese | Jun 6, 2018
St. Giles Cathedral is amazingly beautiful! When in Edinburgh, make sure that you stop by, regardless of your faith. The stained glass, lighting, sculptures are incredible. Take a few extra minutes to take a seat and just let your eyes wander - you won't regret it.
