Rosslyn Chapel Scotland is a historical treasure shrouded with mystery and legend. It’s unique architecture, intricate carvings and statues, and belief that it may have once been home to the Holy Grail has attracted thousands of visitors around the world. I’ll admit, as we were planning our family travel adventure to Scotland, Rosslyn Chapel was at the top of my list. Thanks in part to the success of the Da Vinci Code, which famously filmed some compelling scenes on location, Rosslyn Chapel has seen an upsurge in guests in recent years. However, past the secrets and mysteries that the chapel has become known for, I found that there was so much more than meets the eye. Read on to find out everything you need to know about visiting Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland.
(We received media passes from Visit Scotland which provided us complimentary admission to Rosslyn Chapel. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. For more information please read our Disclosure Policy.)
History of Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland has an amazing and mysterious history that dates back to its origins in the mid-15th century. Around 1446, Rosslyn Chapel was initially founded as a Roman Catholic Church by William Sinclair, the 1st Earl of Caithness.
The site included much of what you still see today, thanks to continued preservation efforts. Original carvings and statues are still very much intact. There are are also several burial sites around the chapel, as well as the infamous underground crypts.
However, it is the chapel’s intricate pillars and carvings, and the potential for hidden messages and secrets, that have helped create Rosslyn Chapel into the mysterious legend it is today.
Adding to the mystery, many historical records have either been lost or destroyed. Throughout history, this has allowed much to be open to debate and imagination.
Amazingly, the chapel remains privately owned by the St. Clair family. Current owners, the 7th Earl and Countess of Roslin, are descendants to the original founders.
Rosslyn Chapel in Da Vinci Code
These days, Rosslyn Chapel and the Da Vinci Code are synonymous, thanks to the extraordinary popularity of the film.
If you haven’t seen the movie yet, you need to, immediately! It remains one of my favorite films and yes, it was the reason we made this visit. Without the book or movie, I wouldn’t have even known this beautiful place existed in the world.
As it turns out, I am not alone. Da Vinci Code put Rosslyn Chapel on the map. According to our tour guide, prior to the movie’s release, the chapel hosted around 30,000 visitors a year.
However, due to Da Vinci Code’s enormous success, Rosslyn Chapel now expects over 176,000 guests annually.
The scenes depicted in the movie, were for the most part, filmed on site. Once inside the chapel, head down the stairs into the crypt and you’ll immediately recognize the area as the underground chamber from the movie.
According to the book, movie, and several legends, Rossyln Chapel was the location of the Holy Grail. This belief is still held by many today.
Fans of the well-known author may also be interested in checking out other awesome places to visit through Dan Brown’s novels.
Mysteries and Secrets
Just where do these legends come from? As Victor Hugo once said, “History has it’s truth, and so has legend.”
Looking back into historical and religious texts, compelling evidence ties Rosslyn Chapel into tales of the Holy Grail, if you choose to believe it.
It is fact that Rosslyn Chapel did have ties to freemasonry and the Knight’s Templar. The establishing family of the chapel were also close to Knight’s Templar members, who fled to Scotland after a murderous uprising against them.
Interestingly, although it was long denied, there has been evidence to support a link between the Freemasons and the Knight’s Templar.
Even further, one known location of the knights who fled to Scotland was a few short miles away from Rosslyn Chapel and their allies, the St. Clair family.
The Underground Chamber
Some who believe that Rosslyn Chapel was in fact a hiding spot for some unknown treasure, perhaps even the Holy Grail, insist the answers lie in the crypts and underground chambers.
As stated previously, visitors may enter the chamber where scenes from the Da Vinci Code were filmed.
However, there is another underground crypt that has remained sealed for centuries.
One visitor’s guide told me, “If there was anything hidden here, I’m certain that it is down there.” He was referring to the sealed chamber.
Tip: Photography and video are no longer allowed inside of the chapel itself. Please keep this in mind when traveling and plan accordingly!
This crypt can easily be missed by guests. However, upon entering the chapel, look straight down to the left of the entrance doors.
According to the chapel’s website, it is a question that they are often asked. Why not just explore the vaults and learn once and for all what lies beneath?
Their statement reads, “The vaults under Rosslyn Chapel are the final resting place of a number of Barons of Rosslyn. It is not surprising that the Earl of Rosslyn does not wish to disturb the resting place of his ancestors.”
Furthermore, they report that such an excavation could jeopardize the structural integrity of Rosslyn Chapel, which has already been subject to extensive restoration processes.
So, is Rosslyn Chapel the location of what adventurers, archeologists, and historians have been searching for?
That remains unknown but for now, you be the judge.
Related:
- 7 Reasons Why Navarre Beach is Florida’s Best Kept Secret
- Magical Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
- 7 Best Tips for You at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
William the Cat
When you think of Rosslyn Chapel mysteries, a cat may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, William the cat, the chapel’s resident, feline guardian, is just that.
According to tour guides, William comes from a line of descendants who have been coming to the chapel for decades. This William has been known to locals to frequent the grounds for the last 14 years, as did his father before him.
We were lucky enough to catch him sleeping on the church pews. He seemed unbothered by the hundred or so visitors who had gathered inside. Later, he was seen walking beneath the cherry blossom trees.
No one knows why William the cat, or his ancestors, come here. Although he has a home in Roslin village with owners who love and care for him, he continues to show up day after day and night after night, to guard the mysterious chapel.
Things to Do at Rosslyn Chapel
Surprisingly, there is more to Rosslyn Chapel than the already stunning and mysterious architecture, carvings, and perfectly kept grounds.
In fact, prior to entering the chapel, visitors are welcomed in a moderately sized gift shop and café.
Adjacent to these areas, there is a space designed for children and families to explore and play.
Complete with games, a dress-up station, coloring stations, and the chance to create rubbings of some of the chapel’s famed statues, this section was a huge hit with my kids.
Those traveling with or without kids can also experience some of the chapel’s history through provided videos.
My favorite area outside of the chapel and it’s immediate grounds, however, are more hidden.
Just behind the chapel, prior to the street entrance, is a small back path that leads down to a serene cemetery on a hill.
The graves here go back to times almost as old as the chapel itself and are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees.
A small path between the back side of the chapel and this cemetery leads to some amazing views overlooking Midlothian.
Where is Rosslyn Chapel Located?
Rosslyn Chapel is located in Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland. Conveniently, it is a short 20-minute drive from Edinburgh, depending on traffic.
If driving, Roslin is located just off of A701 and there are signs in the village directing you where to go from there.
For those who might be visiting without a car, there is a daily bus service that runs from Edinburgh’s city center.
Catch the Lothian Service 37 bus that says “Penicuik/Deanburn” on the front.
However, you can expect this method of transportation to take a bit longer; approximately 45-60 minutes. There are stops located on Princes Street or North Bridge in Edinburgh.
Keep in mind that this service costs £1.70 and exact change is required.
For more information on bus services and run times, check out their website here.
Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland
Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland is an amazing opportunity to step back in time and surround yourself with history and legend.
If you’re visiting Edinburgh or surrounding areas, be sure to put this at the top of your must-do activities.
You will not be disappointed!
For more information about Rosslyn Chapel, including visiting hours, tours, and history, check out their website here.
If you’re looking for more stunning architecture and history on your trip, be sure to also check out the beautiful abbeys in Scotland as well.
Are you planning a trip to see Rosslyn Chapel Scotland or have already been? Let us know in the comments!
Caitlin Norton says
Oh my goodness! Rosslyn Chapel is stunning. It definitely has been added to my list of places to visit when I make it to Scotland.
Christina says
Love it! Definitely don’t miss out, you won’t regret it! It is even more stunning in person!
Jennifer Penas says
Isn’t it great to find such pleasure out of things you never thought you’d enjoy? What history that chapel has! You took some amazing photos as well!! xoxo
Christina says
Thank you! The history there is astonishing as well. Coming from the U.S., I’m in awe when we travel to places like this, with stories and structures that go so far back!
Luci Cook says
That is beautiful. I can feel that history just looking at the photography. I want to go there.
Christina says
I love hearing that! Scotland is absolutely gorgeous and Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see!
Linda says
Paisley Abby is worth looking at also.
Christina says
Hi Linda, thanks so much for sharing! I looked up Paisley Abbey and it looks beautiful! There are so many hidden gems around Scotland to discover!
hauntedhousewife says
I have read the Da Vinci Code and seen the movie but it’s been so many years! The chapel looks absolutely stunning. It was even more interesting to read about! Visiting this beauty is going on my bucket list for sure!
Christina says
That’s so awesome! Da Vinci Code is one of my favorite movies, but I think I need to re-watch it now that we’ve been to Rosslyn Chapel and Paris. It was really cool seeing what is different from how the movie portrayed it and what it is actually like.
mysocalledchaos says
That is absolutely stunning! I really want to visit Scotland one day.
Christina says
Isn’t it? You should definitely try and make a trip there, I was completely blown away with how gorgeous Scotland is.
atruthfultraveler says
I wish I had known about this when I was visiting Edinburgh last year!!! I have seen Da Vinci Code many times, but never knew much about the different filming locations. This is so cool!
Christina says
I guess it’s a good reason to make a trip back! 🙂 It seems like a lot of people either don’t know about Rosslyn Chapel or realize how close it is and easy to get to from Edinburgh!
marciemcheung says
Holy cow. I think we NEED to plan a trip to Scotland next year. I’m kind of obsessing over this post. I mean, the HOLY GRAIL!?!
Christina says
Right? There is so much history throughout Scotland, not to mention how absolutely gorgeous it is! You should definitely put it on your bucketlist!
Sarah - Borders & Bucket Lists says
Wow everything about this place looks stunning. And how does every photo seem to have a rose gold-ish tint? That’s so cool.
Christina says
Rosslyn Chapel was definitely magical! I hope you have the chance to visit someday!
Rowena says
I actually haven’t seen the Da Vinci code but know the premise and can imagine how this fits in! Gorgeous chapel!
Christina says
You should put it on your watch list! It’s one of my favorite movies. Definitely very cool once you see the place and how it all comes together!
rhiydwi says
How did I not know Da Vinci Code was filmed partly in Scotland? I just assumed it was all in France! Planning a short weekend break to Edinburgh with my sister for this summer – hopefully we can visit Rosslyn Chapel if we have the time!
Christina says
Yes, that would be so amazing! It’s so close to Edinburgh, it wouldn’t even take up an entire day to go there and get back to the city. I’m totally jealous that you’re going, I cannot wait to get back to Scotland again!
Bangali Backpackers says
Rosslyn Chapel is stunning! I love how your photos have managed to capture the intricate carvings. The soft golden light accentuates the loveliness 🙂
Christina says
Thank you so much! Rosslyn Chapel is even prettier in person!
theunend says
I was fortunate to visit Rosslyn several years before the DaVinci Code. I was struck by how small the chapel was and how much there was to see in such a small space. The carvings are amazing! I’d love to go back. Taking the bus to the chapel was easy from Edinburgh (if you have th energy, it’s a delightful walk back to Edinburgh). thanks for a great post!
Christina says
I was surprised by that too actually! There are so many carvings and statues, even though we went twice and spent several hours inside, I still feel as though I missed some. I can imagine that walk would be absolutely beautiful, as Roslin is gorgeous with some amazing views.
Kirstin | the tinberry travels (@tinberrytravels) says
Such a beautiful place! We’ve still not managed to make it here despite living in Scotland!
Christina says
How lucky you are to live in such a gorgeous country! You definitely should try and make it there, it is completely worth it!
Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad says
It looks so beautiful there, I’ve still never been! Definitely adding it to the list for when I move to Edinburgh. 😀
Christina says
Yes! I’m so glad to hear that, you will love it!