Description

Enjoy a private half day tour from Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel and Roslin Glen. This 15th century architectural gem is about a 45 minute drive from city centre. After a visit to the chapel we will take a short woodland walk to the ruined castle in Roslin Glen.

Rosslyn Chapel has become world famous since being featured in the Da Vinci Code movie in 2006 but has a much diverse history before this. Built as a private family chapel by William Sinclair in 1446, he hired the top masons in Europe. Both the exterior and interior have unique symbolic sculptures each telling a story. The most exquisite of them all is the Mastor Mason and Apprentice Pillars. The Sinclairs were said to be Templar Knights whom travelled the world returning with ancient treasure which may or may not be in the family crypt. During the Romantic Era it saw visits from famous writers and artists such as Robert Burns, Walter Scott, William Wordsworth, Robert Nasmyth and Queen Victoria. It is now open to the public for us all to discover the mysteries and myths of Rosslyn Chapel.

After we go to Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh's other castle. Famous for being the place Mary Queen of Scots stayed when her husband was murdered. It was home to the Preston family and then the Gilmors. It is now a romantic ruin with great views of Edinburgh and Arthur's seat. It has also been used in film such as Outlaw King, Mary Queen of Scots and Outlander.

In total the tour will take about 4 hours.
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Why Choose This Tour
This private tour to Rosslyn Chapel and gives you time to explore one of Scotland’s most remarkable historic sites in depth. Your qualified guide explains the chapel’s carvings, legends and genuine history, as well as its modern fame from the Da Vinci Code. The tour also allows you to enjoy the scenery of Midlothian and the village of Roslin away from the city centre. All of our private tours are led by a Blue Badge Tourist Guide accredited by the Scottish Tourist Guides Association. This is the recognised professional standard for guiding in Scotland. It is an ideal half day option from Edinburgh that combines easy travel with rich stories and striking architecture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the tour
The Rosslyn Chapel tour usually lasts around four hours from Edinburgh. This includes travel time, a guided visit at the chapel and some time for you to explore on your own.
- Is entry to Rosslyn Chapel included
Entry to Rosslyn Chapel can be included at the time of booking.
- How much walking is involved
Rosslyn Chapel is fully accessible and the site is mainly flat, making it suitable for most visitors. The tour also includes Craigmillar Castle, which has a couple of towers with staircases and some uneven surfaces typical of a medieval fortress. If mobility is a concern, we can substitute Craigmillar Castle with another nearby sight that better suits your needs. Just let us know when you book and we’ll adjust the itinerary accordingly.
- Do we have free time at the chapel
Yes, after the guided explanation you have time to look more closely at the carvings, visit the visitor centre or enjoy the setting at your own pace.
- Can we combine Rosslyn Chapel with other sights
Rosslyn Chapel can be combined with other nearby locations such as the Borders or additional viewpoints outside Edinburgh. If you are interested in a longer customised tour, please mention this when you enquire.
- Where does the tour start and finish
The tour normally starts and finishes in Edinburgh. Hotel pick up in the city can often be arranged and exact details will be confirmed with your booking.
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Private Tour to Rosslyn Chapel and Craigmillar Castle from Edinburgh

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