St Giles' Cathedral
St Giles' Cathedral features on the Gingerguide audio walk through Edinburgh. Give it roughly ~45 min: enough to look, hear a two to three minute story on the spot, and ask the AI guide whatever the story leaves open.
- Type religious
- Suggested visit ~45 min
- Edinburgh Edinburgh guide
About St Giles' Cathedral
Edinburgh's principal church with its iconic crown steeple, at the heart of the Royal Mile since the 14th century.
St Giles' Cathedral, officially the High Kirk of Edinburgh, has stood at the heart of the city's life for over 900 years. Its famous crown steeple, added in 1495, is one of Edinburgh's most recognisable landmarks. The cathedral played a central role in the Scottish Reformation, John Knox, the fiery Protestant reformer, served as its minister in the 1560s. Inside you'll find the exquisite Thistle Chapel, built in 1911 for the Knights of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry.
Did you know? Jenny Geddes reportedly started a riot in 1637 by throwing a stool at the minister who tried to read from the new English prayer book.
How long is a visit to St Giles' Cathedral?
Set aside roughly ~45 min for St Giles' Cathedral. That covers a good look and the narrated story, and because you set the pace you can always stay on.
Is St Giles' Cathedral worth your time?
St Giles' Cathedral is among the 26 narrated highlights the Gingerguide team chose for Edinburgh, so it is worth a look. Hear the story for the context, then ask the AI guide for anything more.
Nearby stops in Edinburgh
Hear the story of St Giles' Cathedral
Preview the Edinburgh tour free in the Gingerguide app.