Visit chapel that inspired Da Vinci Code, close to Edinburgh

Book now for autumn visits to Rosslyn Chapel, and check out this season’s special eventsBook now for autumn visits to Rosslyn Chapel, and check out this season’s special events
Book now for autumn visits to Rosslyn Chapel, and check out this season’s special events
Rosslyn Chapel is one of Scotland’s real gems, and can be found just seven miles south of Edinburgh, amid the stunning rural landscape of Midlothian.

Visit this autumn and find out just why this historic building inspired the creation of the Da Vinci Code.

It’s the ideal time to visit, away from the high of the summer tourist season, and being so close to the city, is easy to reach by public transport or car – there’s even free parking on site.

The chapel, which was founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair and took over 40 years to build (although was never completed) is open daily. Each day is split into 90 minute timeslots to manage the flow of visitors and ensure each one has the best experience.

Rosslyn Chapel: discover one of Midlothian’s gemsRosslyn Chapel: discover one of Midlothian’s gems
Rosslyn Chapel: discover one of Midlothian’s gems

The chapel is managed by Rosslyn Chapel Trust, a registered charity, so every visit supports its preservation.

Booking is highly advisable because of the popularity of this attraction and can be made easily through the website at www.rosslynchapel.com

What to see

Cast your eyes to the building itself and you’ll find practically every stone surface inside and out is carved, showcasing an outstanding display of craftsmanship.

Autumn is a glorious time to visit this mediaeval chapel, which was the inspiration for Da Vinci CodeAutumn is a glorious time to visit this mediaeval chapel, which was the inspiration for Da Vinci Code
Autumn is a glorious time to visit this mediaeval chapel, which was the inspiration for Da Vinci Code

Look out for some of the famous features, including the Green Men, the chapel’s angels and the Apprentice Pillar. And see if you can find the carvings said to be maize, although that was not known in Scotland at the time when the Chapel was built, so how does it appear here?

Most famously this mediaeval chapel was the inspiration for the Dan Brown novel, and subsequent film, The Da Vinci Code.

Planning your visit

Rosslyn Chapel might be one of Scotland’s best known buildings but one visit is rarely enough to take it all in. If you’ve been before, it’s time to come back! Admission is £9.50 for adults/ £7.50 for visitors who are aged 60+, or unemployed or disabled or students

Within each timeslot, a Chapel Guide will give a short presentation about the building’s history and main features. There is no extra charge for this.

The rest of the timeslot allows plenty of time to look round at leisure using the free map to find key carvings inside and outside. The visitor centre includes interpretation, gift shop and coffee shop, overlooking Roslin Glen, which looks stunning at this time of year.

Special events

Look out for some special events coming up this autumn such as an evening of contemporary multi-genre original music, a musical history of Mediaeval Scottish Kings or poetry set to the music of Vaughan Williams, Roger Quilter, Herbert Hughes and others. You could also visit the chapel by candlelight this autumn.

And closer to Christmas there is a programme of events, including a new adaptation of A Christmas Carol – including carols – plus more candlelit visits, to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the chapel at night.

For more details or to book tickets for the special events click here .

Book your place

The chapel is open seven days a week. To book your 90-minute timeslot please go to the website here).

Any vacant spaces for timeslots are available for people to purchase on the day, however, booking is highly advisable to avoid disappointment.