Rosslyn Chapel — Attraction in Great Britain

Been in Scotland a few times now. And finally we made some time to visit the famous Rosslyn Chapel. Made even more famous a while ago by the movie "The DaVinci Code".

We booked our tickets online for a late afternoon. Very easy. We knew dogs aren't allowed, but since we were travelling with our Bulldog, we just took turns to visit the Chapel. The carpark is just around the corner and spacious. If full, there's an overflow carpark as well.

There's a shop, a café with nice views, lots of information about the history and toilets in the visitors center.

The Chapel itself deserves all the hype! We've spent a lot more time here than planned. It's just simply amazing. There are so many details to discover, incredible architecture.

Rosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair. Following the Reformation, the Chapel fell into disrepair and, in 1650, Cromwell's troops attacked Rosslyn Castle and are said to have stabled their horses inside the Chapel. The Chapel was rededicated in 1862. In 1995, confirmed that damage was occurring and that humidity in the Chapel was very high. After this, a major conservation project by the Rosslyn Chapel Trust came to life. And now the Chapel sits there in all its glory for the next generations to come.

You can read more about the restoration at the Chapel itself, there are lots of pics and infos. It was a huge project, and that justifies the entrance fee. It was just a lot of work. And to keep the Chapel in shape costs time and money. So the entrance fee is money well spent.

And for your money there's so much to see. You can take a tour as well if you're interested. Or you just can explore it on your own. Checking the Stained glass windows, counting the "green men", the plant carvings or go down to the Sacristy, which was very interesting. And: Chapel Guides give talks throughout the day.

There are time-slots for visiting and the visit is limited by both time and number of visitors. That made a lot of sense, because it never felt like the place was crowded and like this, one can enjoy the Chapel fully. Staff/guides were all very friendly and helpful.

A fantastic visit and one of our very highlights on this years Road Trip through the UK. Highly...

Rosslyn Chapel is a very unique place. Historical, mystical, spiritual built with accomplished masonry and conspiracy abides. The Chapel is quite a small space inside but magnificent. The skill of the masonry work and years of toil and artistry put into the Chapel is amazing. It can be visually overwhelming and over stimulating when you first step inside as their is so much to marvel at, mostly references to religious narratives. I recommend taking your time and putting your observational goggles on. I would also recommend reading about the Chapel masonry to know for points of interest to look for. There are very knowledgeable staff who are friendly and happy to answer your questions. Just to make you aware NO PHOTOGRAPHY is permitted inside any part of the Chapel. There is signage at the door making you aware of this and quite often the staff will politely forbid people who break the code inside, no pun intended. During my visit, a very knowledgeable member of staff called Brian gathered an audience and told the story of Rosslyns timeline like a well versed poet. He was an excellent story teller and was very engaging and enthusiastic. It was all very fascinating and interesting. He started his story from the founding of the chapel by William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness in 1446 to the present day restorations, popularity of Dan Brown's grandiose story, The Da Vinci Code in 2003 and the troubles of the turbulant medieval period. I would highly recommend staying around for this talk. Check with the friendly staff when these talks are given. Rosslyn has a very good gift shop at the entry/exit before the Chapel. Everything from books, to ornaments, keyring, to magnets, pictures to tote bags and so much more. There are also clean single, unisex toilets and a cafe with a good selection of food and hot and cold drinks. There are benches outside the Chapel to relax and enjoy looking at the Chapel and there are stunning views over looking Rosslyn glen. Overall, a fulfilling and fascinating experience. I would highly recommend a visit to...

A Tapestry of Stone - Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland

A delightful detour on our NC500 journey was the visit to Rosslyn Chapel. This 15th-century chapel, located in the village of Roslin near Edinburgh, offers an extraordinary blend of history, artistry, and intrigue.

From the moment we first saw it, Rosslyn Chapel captured our imaginations. It may be small, but it is a true masterpiece of architecture and sculpture. The exterior stonework, with its detailed carvings and towering spires, is impressive, but it's inside the chapel where the real magic lies.

The interior is a visual feast. Virtually every inch of the stone surface is adorned with intricate carvings - biblical scenes, symbolic representations, and mysterious figures. Particularly stunning is the Apprentice Pillar, a beautiful piece of stonework that's a testament to the craftsmen who built the chapel.

The staff at the chapel were excellent, providing insightful commentary on the chapel's history, the meanings behind the carvings, and the chapel's connection to modern cultural phenomena like the Da Vinci Code.

Despite its popularity, our visit felt peaceful and contemplative, with visitor numbers well-managed. The facilities, including the visitor centre, gift shop, and café, are all top-notch. Accessibility is well catered for with designated parking spaces and wheelchair access.

In conclusion, Rosslyn Chapel is an unmissable destination for any road trip in Scotland. Its architectural beauty, the intricate carvings, and the layers of history and mystery that surround it make for an enriching and intriguing visit. Rosslyn Chapel is a testament to the past's ability to inspire awe and wonder in the present.

Its very good accessible with the...