St Giles Cathedral

St Giles Cathedral is in the middle of the Royal Mile and one of the most iconic buildings in all of Edinburgh.  It is also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, kirk being an old norse word for church.  St Giles contains the famous Thistle Chapel which I'll discuss in more detail later.  Anyone who walks down the royal mile can't help but notice and appreciate St Giles.  I've been inside numerous times and I always appreciate the history of the building and the great architecture. 

There are records of a parish church in Edinburgh by the year 854, however St Giles was formally dedicated by the bishop of St Andrews in 1243.  Throughout the years the church continued to serve the community, and although suffered damage during the 18th century was restored during the 19th century to the building we know today.  The addition of the Thistle Chapel during the early 1900s provided a place for the Order of the Thistle.  The Order of the Thistle is Scotland's great order of chivalry and is given to those who have provided distinguished service to the country.  Cities 360 provides a great indoor panoramic image of the Thistle Chapel.

The building itself is open and free to the public to tour or attend services.  The only cost is a small donation request to enter the Thistle Chapel or take indoor photographs.  The center of the room is dominated by the organ which is considered one of the finest in Europe.  There is also a quiet space in the northwest corner for prayer and meditation.  What I appreciate is that the church services are open to the public and they welcome all who attend.  Anyone visiting Edinburgh should spend some time in St Giles.  It can seem hectic and loud on the Royal Mile and St. Giles always provides a quiet and relaxing change from the bustle outside.

St Giles Cathedral from the Royal Mile

Princess Street Gardens

Princess St Gardens separate historic Old Town from New Town.  The park runs the length of downtown Edinburgh from Waverly station to Castle Hill and is where locals spend warm afternoons.

The area was originally created by draining the Nor Loch in the 1770s.  The park was intentionally left vacant to allow those living in New Town a spectacular view of Old Town; including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.  I really enjoy spending time in the Princess St Gardens because all of Edinburgh seems to congregate there during the warm weather.  It's the perfect place to read, get some sun, and enjoy music from the many free concerts.

The gardens are separated in the middle by the Mound, which officially connects the Old and New town.  The Mound also houses the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy.  Both of these museums feature great works of historical art along with contemporary displays. 

When the weather suddenly turns from sun to rain I strongly recommend visiting the National Gallery.  Unlike the US, galleries in the UK are, for the most part, free.  You can walk into the National Gallery and stay all afternoon, or at least until it stops raining.  I have spent a lot of time in the National Gallery and can recommend whiling away an afternoon indoors.

If the rain continues, the National Gallery also boasts a great restaurant featurning local specialties, afternoon tea, and great service.  I strongly recommend the bacon and cheese butterie, a local favorite. 




View of Old Town from Princess St Gardens.  The National Gallery is visible on the right.