Family days out near Edinburgh: Historic Rosslyn Chapel has fun activities for the children
Rosslyn Chapel has a history to share which will not only ignite young imaginations but will also fascinate mums, dads and the rest of the family too.
This ancient chapel in Midlothian was founded in 1446 and has been popular for generations because of its unique architecture and the amazing craftsmanship in the medieval stonework.
It’s a destination which isn’t just proud of its past but is also looking forward to the future.
The star of The Da Vinci Code
The chapel is looked after by Rosslyn Chapel Trust, a recognised charity, and each visit supports the ongoing conservation work to look after the chapel for the next few generations.
And what’s more, this stunning chapel was featured in the famous film The Da Vinci Code starring Tom Hanks. The interest generated from the film helped the trust tackle some of the conservation work.
Young visitors can really take a deep dive into lots of activities, bringing the history of this beautiful building to life.
Children will love all these activities
The chapel provides a free children's guide which is full of activities and puzzles, to keep the youngsters busy and the rest of the family relaxed and involved.
The little people in your lives can:
- Draw a “Green Man” which is a face with leaves growing out of its mouth. Rosslyn Chapel has over 100 examples.
- Look out for the “musical angels”. Youngsters can seek the heavenly choir singing and playing medieval musical instruments. There’s even an angel playing bagpipes!
- Colour in the chapel’s newest stained glass window which was unveiled in 2021
- Design their own heraldic shield and take inspiration from the coat of arms of chapel founder Sir William St Clair
- Spot the animals, such as the squirrel, rabbit, butterfly and kangaroo in the stained glass window to St Francis of Assisi
- And look for some of the more exotic ones, like a camel which can be seen outside!
Follow the outdoor trail to see the gargoyles and features of the chapel's Gothic architecture
How to get there and special admission deal
Rosslyn Chapel is open all year round and just a few miles from Edinburgh. It is easily accessible by bus from the city (take the number 37 heading for Penicuik/Deanburn).
It’s a great place to visit in the summer holidays and admission is free for children in a family group.
On Wednesdays, during the school holidays, activities take place which are included in the ticket price.
Then when a Green Men has been drawn, and the bagpipe-playing angel spotted, perhaps it’s time to round off the visit with a drink and cake in the coffee shop which overlooks the spectacular Roslin Glen.
There’s a gift shop too, to take home a memory of the day.
Follow in the footsteps of generations of visitors, and Hollywood movie stars too, and book your visit to Rosslyn Chapel. Plan your day by visiting the chapel’s website.