Visit Rosslyn Chapel: Here’s what to see in this famous building (and how to get an upgrade)

There is so much to discover and learn about Rosslyn Chapel, no two visits are the same.

Whether you’ve been a dozen times, or you’re planning a first-time trip, you are in for a treat. And as it is just seven miles south of Edinburgh, can be reached by bus from the city and offers free parking for guests, it’s easily accessible for a day trip.

And, tickets can be turned into an annual pass – so once you’ve paid for your visit you can go as many times as you like in 2025!

The chapel, which is almost 600 years old, is famous throughout the world – its renown boosted after it was named as the inspiration behind the best-selling book, and later film, The Da Vinci Code.

When I decided to write The Da Vinci Code, I knew that its finale would have to take place at the most mysterious and magical Chapel on earth – Rosslyn

Dan Brown, author of The Da Vinci Code

And indeed it is a mysterious and magical place. Step inside this Medieval chapel for a world of delights. It has numerous unusual carvings – especially spot some of the most well-known.

Mid-term fun

With tens of thousands of visitors each year, some visiting slots can be booked up. But the chapel is open seven days a week and visitors are given a 90 minute time slot to look around, so everyone gets a comfortable trip and is able to see what they want to see, without it ever becoming too crowded.

That said, this time of year is a great time to visit, and February mid term could prove ideal – not least because admission is free for children in a family group and you’ll be given a free children’s guide and they’ll have chance to dress up for great photo opportunities!

All you need to know

We’ve put together an at-a-glance guide to the main things you need to know about getting here and making the most of your visit to Rosslyn Chapel.

Plan ahead – Look through the website – for lots of information and a 360 degree tour, and you can book your tickets here.

Follow the Chapel on social media – X and Instagram @rosslynchapel; facebook @rosslynchapeltrust for news, images and information about forthcoming events

Take in a talk – Chapel Guides give talks throughout the day so you can sit back and listen to the history and legends associated with the building.

But all visitors also get a free carvings map to help them locate the most significant stonecarvings inside and outside this stunning building.

Don’t miss – Look out for the Apprentice Pillar, said to have been designed by the Master Mason’s young apprentice. There are said to be over 100 Green Men carvings inside and outside, but how many will your spot? And have you ever seen an angel playing the bagpipes? One of the Chapel’s angels here is doing just that.

There’s only one inscription carved into the stone; can you see it and work out what it says?

Easy to get to

Rosslyn Chapel is in Roslin, Midlothian, just seven miles south of Edinburgh city centre

Take the bus from central Edinburgh – there’s a bus stop just a few minutes’ walk from the Chapel. Or if you’re coming by car there is free parking on site and EV charging point in carpark

Before you go

Finish the visit in the delightful coffee shop which overlooks the picturesque Roslin Glen, and browse the gift shop for a souvenir or a present. Most of the items are unique and exclusive to the Chapel so you won’t find them anywhere else!

Pick up a leaflet to turn your ticket into an annual pass for no extra cost and enjoy a year’s worth of visits

The Chapel is managed by Rosslyn Chapel Trust, which is a registered charity, and so every visit supports the work to look after the Chapel for future generations.