Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel is a 15th-century chapel in Roslin, around seven miles south of Edinburgh city centre.

Founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair, it’s known for its exceptionally detailed stone carvings, the Apprentice Pillar, repeated Green Man figures, and the many symbols that have fuelled centuries of stories and theories.

The chapel is still an active place of worship, but it is also one of Midlothian’s best-known visitor attractions. Its profile grew internationally after appearing in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and the later film, although the building’s real history and craftsmanship are more interesting than most of the modern myths attached to it.

What to See at Rosslyn Chapel

The interior rewards a slow look. Stone pillars, arches, faces, plants, biblical scenes, and geometric details cover much of the building, with the Apprentice Pillar among the most famous features. A complimentary map helps visitors pick out the main carvings, and each timed visit includes a short informational talk from one of the chapel guides.

The visitor centre explains how the chapel was built and conserved, with digital interpretation and displays that help make sense of details that are easy to miss inside. There is also a coffee shop looking towards Roslin Glen and a gift shop, with purchases supporting the chapel’s conservation.

• Founded: 1446 by Sir William St Clair
• Visit format: 90-minute timed slots with a guide talk included
• Key features: Apprentice Pillar, Green Men, plant carvings, stained glass, sacristy, and exterior stonework
• Facilities: visitor centre, coffee shop, gift shop, and grounds

Tickets and Visiting

As of September 2026, standard admission is £12 for adults and £10 for reduced-price tickets, while children aged 17 and under are free when visiting as part of a family group. The chapel recommends booking online in advance because entry is managed through fixed time slots.

Interior photography and video are not permitted. You can take personal photographs outside the chapel, so save the camera for the grounds and exterior stonework. The sacristy is reached by 26 steep steps, and the historic building has some uneven flooring, although detailed accessibility information is available from the chapel before visiting.

Getting to Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel sits in the village of Roslin in Midlothian, south of the Edinburgh City Bypass. It is close enough to Edinburgh for a half-day trip, but allowing extra time for Roslin Glen or the village makes more sense than rushing straight back after the chapel.

Drivers should follow signs for Roslin and Chapel Loan. Group and coach parking is limited and should be arranged in advance. For the latest public transport options and any changes to visitor access, use the official visitor information before travelling.