St Mary’s Cathedral
Address: Palmerston Place, Edinburgh, EH12 5AW
St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral on Palmerston Place is the highest building in Edinburgh and the largest cathedral in Scotland. This example of Victorian Gothic architecture is located in the West End of the New Town and dates from 1879. The design was inspired by the architecture of early Gothic churches and abbeys of Scotland.
You can see the 5000 ton central tower with 90-metre tall spire and the twin western spires from miles away. The twin spires, Mary and Barbara, are named after the Walker sisters, two sisters that originally funded the building’s construction in the 1870s. Inside, there is a window designed by Eduardo Paolozzi, the Rood Cross created as part of the National War Memorial and a stunning central High Alter. The cathedral’s internationally renowned choir sings the daily services.
5 things to do at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral
- Walk around the building and take in the Gothic-style architecture, including the tallest spire in Edinburgh.
- Explore the interior and look out for features such as the Rood Cross, High Altar and Paolozzi Window.
- Hear the bells ring every Sunday morning from 9.45 am.
- Attend a daily choral service.
- Enjoy a classical concert at the cathedral during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
