Rosslyn Chapel

The Basics

Rosslyn Chapel is a popular day trip from Edinburgh. Organized day tours often venture south from Edinburgh, stopping at Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders, and—in some instances—at Hadrian’s Wall across the border in England. Other organized tours plot courses north from Rosslyn Chapel, making stops at Stirling Castle, the National Wallace Monument, and Dunfermline Abbey (the burial place of Robert the Bruce). Other day tours to Rosslyn Chapel stick to historic sites in and around Scotland’s capital, such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Glenkinchie Distillery.

The modern, on-site visitor center at Rosslyn Chapel helps day-trippers decode the enigmatic carvings using interactive displays, as do the informative talks, which take place at the chapel several times daily.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see for history buffs and Dan Brown fans.

• Allow 1–2 hours for your visit.

• Photography is not allowed inside the chapel itself.

• A café is located within the visitor center.

• Most of the chapel, with the exception of the crypt, is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Rosslyn Chapel is in the Lothians, about a 30-minute drive south from Edinburgh city center.

To get there by public transport, take the 37 Lothian bus (marked via Roslin) from Queensferry Street and get off at the Roslin Hotel stop. The chapel is a 2-minute walk from there.

When to Get There

Rosslyn Chapel is open throughout the year. If you want to explore the grounds, go in summer when the weather is more likely to comply. Weekday mornings are especially peaceful.

The Carvings at Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel’s intricate carvings are the its star attraction, and have spurred many theories regarding their meaning. The carvings feature flowers and biblical scenes, tsymbols supposedly associated with the Freemasons and the Knights Templar, and mysterious native American plants that were made before Colombus’ discovery of the New World. Some posit that the Knights of Templar hid in parts of the chapel and that its vaults may hold the Holy Grail or even the body of Christ.

What is the history behind Rosslyn Chapel?

Rosslyn Chapel was founded as a Catholic collegiate church in the mid-15th century by Sir William St. Clair and is now a Scottish Episcopal Church. The building is known for its ornate carvings, and since the 1980s many theories have surfaced about the link between the chapel, the Knights Templar, and the Holy Grail.

How can I get to Rosslyn Chapel using public transportation?

From Edinburgh city center, take the Lothian Service #37 bus, but make sure it says Penicuik/Deanburn on the front of the bus. The journey takes around 45–60 minutes, and the bus takes you to Roslin village, a couple of minutes walk from the chapel.

Are there guided tours available at Rosslyn Chapel?

Yes, there are guided tours available at Rosslyn Chapel that explain the history and most important features of the chapel. Some day tours also venture further afield and combine a chapel visit with other Scottish highlights, such as Hadrian’s Wall, Dunfermline Abbey, Melrose Abbey, and Stirling Castle.

What are the notable architectural features of Rosslyn Chapel?

Rosslyn Chapel is renowned for its intricate stone carvings, notably the Apprentice Pillar, which is steeped in legend. The chapel also features more than 100 Green Men carvings, symbolizing rebirth and nature. Other notable features include The Lady Chapel, ornate stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and the Sacristy.

Are there any legends or mysteries associated with Rosslyn Chapel?

Yes, Rosslyn Chapel is associated with multiple legends and mysteries, and it was notably featured in The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Its rumored associations with the Knights Templar have fueled conspiracy theories about the Holy Grail. A sealed underground vault adds to the intrigue surrounding this historic site.

Can visitors take photographs inside Rosslyn Chapel?

No, unfortunately taking photographs or filming video is not allowed inside Rosslyn Chapel. This policy is to ensure that other visitors don’t get distracted or inconvenienced. However, there aren’t any photography restrictions on the exterior of the chapel, and you can take photos here that are intended for personal use.