Rosslyn Chapel Edinburgh
An intricately carved 15th-century chapel near Edinburgh, famed for its mysteries, 'Da Vinci Code' fame, and stunning Roslin Glen.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Rosslyn Chapel Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An intricately carved 15th-century chapel near Edinburgh, famed for its mysteries, 'Da Vinci Code' fame, and stunning Roslin Glen.
"An easily accessible wonder of stone carving, rich with interesting things to see and explore."
📸 No Photography Inside
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the chapel. Respect the rules to preserve the experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Explore Roslin Glen
Take time to walk through the beautiful Roslin Glen; it's a dreamlike wooded valley with a river and historical sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Apprentice Pillar
Interior
Marvel at the intricate carvings of the Apprentice Pillar, a masterpiece of medieval stonework with a legendary tale of envy and tragedy.
Intricate Stone Carvings
Interior and Exterior
Discover hundreds of detailed carvings, from biblical scenes to pagan symbols and even plants not known in Europe at the time of its construction.
Roslin Glen Walk
Surrounding Grounds
Wander through the enchanting wooded valley behind the chapel, featuring dramatic cliffs, a river, and remnants of historical structures.
The Da Vinci Code Connection
Chapel Exterior
See the iconic chapel made famous by Dan Brown's novel and the subsequent film, adding a layer of modern mystery to its ancient allure.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Entry
Explore Beyond the Chapel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 No Photography Inside
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the chapel. Respect the rules to preserve the experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Explore Roslin Glen
Take time to walk through the beautiful Roslin Glen; it's a dreamlike wooded valley with a river and historical sites.
🗣️ Attend History Talks
Staff-led talks offer fascinating insights into the chapel's history and mysteries. Don't miss them!
📚 Get the Guidebook
The guidebook is highly recommended to help you understand the intricate carvings and symbolism.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 No Photography Inside
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the chapel. Respect the rules to preserve the experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Explore Roslin Glen
Take time to walk through the beautiful Roslin Glen; it's a dreamlike wooded valley with a river and historical sites.
🗣️ Attend History Talks
Staff-led talks offer fascinating insights into the chapel's history and mysteries. Don't miss them!
📚 Get the Guidebook
The guidebook is highly recommended to help you understand the intricate carvings and symbolism.
☕ Cafe & Gift Shop
There's a welcoming cafe and a gift shop on-site for refreshments and souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rosslyn Chapel for its breathtaking architecture and incredibly detailed stone carvings, calling it a 'wonder of stone carving' and 'absolutely amazing.' The knowledgeable and friendly staff, along with the fascinating history and theories, are frequently highlighted as major positives. While popular, many find ways to enjoy quieter moments, and the surrounding Roslin Glen adds significant value to the visit.
"An easily accessible wonder of stone carving. Good Parking and more history in the local castle and glen to fill your day. A welcoming cafe and friendly guides help you make sense of all the intricacies and theories surrounding this chapel. Always popular but not always too busy. If you let the bus parties pass on their way you can have it to yourself."
Nigel Huxtable
"Highly recommend! Rich with interesting things to see and explore. The staff are amazing. Super knowledgeable and friendly. Margaret's talk on the history was enjoyable and informative. Maureen's guidance and care were exceptional. And the entry fee is reasonable."
Chrisna Vergottini-Mason
"Absolutely amazing place. It’s breathtaking. The architecture and stone work is unreal. I cannot recommend this place enough. The energy you feel when you walk in is indescribable. With Wallace cave, the chapel, the castle and the out gunpowder mill so close to one another, this makes for a great day trip."
Stuart Naples
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Rosslyn Chapel from Edinburgh is by bus, with Lothian Buses route 37 and 31 offering direct services. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive, with parking available on-site. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also options, though they can be more expensive.
Yes, public transport is quite convenient. Lothian Buses routes 37 and 31 run regularly from Edinburgh city center directly to Rosslyn Chapel, making it an accessible day trip.
For a day trip from Edinburgh, taking the bus (route 37 or 31) is a popular and straightforward option. It allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about parking.
Yes, many tour operators in Edinburgh offer day trips that include Rosslyn Chapel, often combined with other attractions like Hadrian's Wall or the Scottish Borders. This is a convenient option if you prefer guided excursions.
Yes, there is dedicated parking available at Rosslyn Chapel, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for Rosslyn Chapel. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry slot, particularly during peak tourist seasons. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures a smoother experience.
Rosslyn Chapel has specific opening hours that can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
There are reports that Rosslyn Chapel may offer free entry on Sundays, but this is not always guaranteed and can depend on specific events or times. It's essential to verify this information directly with the chapel.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Rosslyn Chapel. This rule is enforced to protect the delicate carvings and maintain the spiritual atmosphere of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find incredibly detailed stone carvings, including the famous Apprentice Pillar, biblical scenes, and enigmatic symbols. The chapel's architecture is a marvel of medieval craftsmanship.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours at the chapel itself, but allow an additional 1-2 hours to explore the surrounding Roslin Glen and its historical sites for a fuller experience.
Yes, knowledgeable staff often provide talks and insights into the chapel's history and mysteries, which are highly recommended. Check the schedule upon arrival.
The carvings are incredibly significant, featuring a mix of Christian iconography, pagan symbols, and even depictions of plants like maize, which were unknown in Europe at the time of its construction, fueling many theories.
Yes, children can find the intricate carvings and the 'Da Vinci Code' connection interesting. The surrounding glen also offers space for them to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Rosslyn Chapel that offers a selection of food and hot/cold drinks, perfect for a break during your visit.
While there are benches outside the chapel to relax and enjoy the views, dedicated picnic areas might be limited. The cafe is a good option for refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely not. Photography is strictly forbidden inside Rosslyn Chapel to preserve the sanctity and intricate details of the interior.
The exterior of the chapel offers many beautiful angles. The walk through Roslin Glen also provides stunning natural backdrops for photography.
Filming inside the chapel is not permitted. However, you might be able to film in the surrounding grounds, but it's best to check with the chapel administration beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that photography is not allowed inside the chapel, which might be a challenge for some younger visitors. However, the on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for snacks and breaks. Consider attending one of the staff talks, as engaging storytellers can make the history come alive for all ages.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider visiting on a Sunday if free entry is available (verify this beforehand). Pack your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in the scenic Roslin Glen, rather than relying solely on the on-site cafe. The glen itself is free to explore and offers a substantial experience alongside the chapel visit.
💑 Couples
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the glen, perhaps followed by a visit to the chapel to marvel at its intricate details together. The on-site cafe is a pleasant spot for a coffee or light lunch, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion from Edinburgh.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mysteries and Theories of Rosslyn Chapel
Further fueling the mystique are carvings that appear to depict plants like maize (corn), which were unknown in Europe before Columbus's voyages to the Americas. This has led to speculation about pre-Columbian contact or advanced ancient knowledge. The chapel's association with the Knights Templar and its potential connection to the Holy Grail, popularized by Dan Brown's 'The Da Vinci Code,' adds another layer of intrigue.
Visitors often report a unique and palpable energy within the chapel, described as mystical or spiritual. Whether you believe in the legends or not, the sheer artistry and the unanswered questions surrounding Rosslyn Chapel make it a captivating destination.
Exploring Roslin Glen: Nature and History
The glen is not just about natural beauty; it's dotted with historical remnants. You can find ruins of old buildings, including Rosslyn Castle (though much of it is in ruins and access may be restricted) and the remnants of a gunpowder mill. The walk along the river, crossing bridges and navigating sandstone cliffs, offers a different perspective on the area's past and its relationship with the chapel.
It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, offering a chance to connect with nature and imagine the lives of those who lived and worked in this valley centuries ago. The contrast between the intricate stonework of the chapel and the wild beauty of the glen is striking and adds depth to the overall experience.
The 'Green Man' and Other Iconography
Beyond the Green Man, the chapel's carvings tell stories from the Bible, depict saints, and feature a variety of mythical creatures and geometric patterns. The sheer detail and variety are overwhelming, with many visitors recommending taking your time and perhaps consulting a guidebook to fully appreciate the artistry and symbolism.
Some carvings are particularly unique, such as those that appear to represent cymatics, the study of visible sound and vibration. Stuart Mitchell has even created music based on the tones suggested by these carvings, adding another layer of scientific and artistic interpretation to the chapel's mysteries.
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