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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel

Located in the quiet village of Roslin, this 15th-century chapel is famous for its incredibly detailed stone carvings and its many mysterious legends. It is in Midlothian, using the postcode EH25 9PU.

What to Expect and Enjoy
The chapel is much smaller than a cathedral, but every single inch of the stone inside is carved with symbols, plants, and figures.

  • The Apprentice Pillar: This is the most famous carving in the chapel. The story goes that the master stonemason was so jealous of his apprentice’s beautiful work that he killed him in a fit of rage!
  • The Da Vinci Code: Fans of the book or film will recognise the chapel as a key location. You can look for the symbols mentioned in the story and visit the crypt.
  • The Green Men: There are over 100 carvings of “Green Men” (faces with vines growing out of their mouths) hidden throughout the building. It’s like a giant scavenger hunt to find them all.
  • William the Cat: The chapel has a very famous resident black cat named William. He is often found sleeping on a cushioned pew or greeting visitors in the garden.

Best For and Time Spent
This is a “must-see” for couples, adults, and history fans. While children are welcome, it is a very quiet, respectful place, so it might not suit high-energy toddlers.

  • Duration: Most people spend about 1.5 hours here, which includes listening to one of the excellent (and free) introductory talks given by the staff.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Booking: It is essential to book your time slot online in advance as the chapel is small and very popular.
  • Photography: To protect the carvings and the atmosphere, photography is generally not allowed inside the chapel itself, but you can take as many photos as you like of the beautiful exterior.
  • Food & Drink: There is a lovely modern cafe on-site with views over Roslin Glen.
  • Nearby: After your visit, take a walk down into Roslin Glen. It’s a beautiful wooded valley with the ruins of Rosslyn Castle just a five-minute walk away.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Blackness Castle Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Linlithgow Palace Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Portrait Gallery Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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