Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel is one of Scotland’s most intriguing buildings — a small 15th-century chapel famous for its extraordinarily intricate stone carvings and the mysteries and legends that surround it. Set in the village of Roslin, just seven miles south of Edinburgh, it draws visitors from around the world, its fame boosted by Dan Brown’s novel and film The Da Vinci Code.
History
Officially the Collegiate Chapel of St Matthew, Rosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair (Sinclair), and took some 40 years to build. Intended as a far larger church, only the choir was completed. Over the centuries it fell into disrepair before being restored in the Victorian era and again, extensively, in recent decades. A modern visitor centre now tells its story.
What to see

The carvings — virtually every surface inside is covered in remarkable stonework: foliage, biblical scenes, angels, and over a hundred mysterious “Green Men”.
The Apprentice Pillar — the chapel’s most celebrated carving, linked to a legend of a master mason and his gifted apprentice.
Curious motifs — carvings that have prompted endless theories, including some said to resemble New World plants carved before Columbus’s voyages.
The crypt and setting — and the views over Roslin Glen, a beautiful wooded gorge nearby.

The Da Vinci Code and the legends
Rosslyn Chapel’s air of mystery has inspired countless theories linking it to the Knights Templar, the Freemasons and the Holy Grail. It featured prominently in the climax of The Da Vinci Code, which brought a surge of visitors. While the wilder theories are firmly in the realm of legend, the genuine craftsmanship and atmosphere need no embellishment.
Tickets and opening times
Rosslyn Chapel is open to visitors year-round (with reduced hours in winter and closed on some holidays). Admission is charged and includes access to the visitor centre, where regular talks help bring the carvings to life. Photography is not permitted inside the chapel. Booking ahead is wise in summer.
How to get there
Roslin is about a 30-minute drive south of Edinburgh, with parking at the chapel. By public transport, the Lothian Bus service 37 runs from Edinburgh city centre to Roslin. Many visitors combine the chapel with a walk in nearby Roslin Glen Country Park.
Tips for visiting

Join one of the free talks given by the guides — they reveal details in the carvings you’d otherwise miss.
Allow 1–1.5 hours for the chapel and visitor centre, longer if you walk in Roslin Glen.
Remember photography isn’t allowed inside, so put the camera away and look up.

Frequently asked questions
Why is Rosslyn Chapel famous?
It’s renowned for its astonishingly detailed 15th-century carvings and the legends surrounding it, and gained worldwide fame through The Da Vinci Code.
How far is Rosslyn Chapel from Edinburgh?
About seven miles (roughly 30 minutes by car), in the village of Roslin. Bus service 37 connects it with central Edinburgh.
Can you take photos inside Rosslyn Chapel?
No — photography is not permitted inside the chapel, though you can photograph the exterior and grounds.
How long do you need at Rosslyn Chapel?
Around one to one and a half hours for the chapel and visitor centre; add more time for a walk in Roslin Glen.
Is Rosslyn Chapel worth visiting?
Yes — its unique carvings and atmosphere make it one of the most memorable small historic sites near Edinburgh.