Rosslyn Chapel, kids go free on the ultimate day out spanning 600 years of history
Whether it is finding the inspiration for the Da Vinci Code, immersing yourself in 600 of history or exploring the beautiful surroundings, Rosslyn Chapel is the perfect day out for all
Kids go free and regular visitors can take advantage of an annual pass, meaning stepping back to 1446, when the chapel was founded, is simple.
The first thing that astounds people when they arrive is the architectural splendour of the building.
The ornate Apprentice Pillar has immaculate carvings but it is the brutal story behind it, told since at least 1677, which leaves visitors amazed.
The Master stonemason had travelled to Europe to look for inspiration but a young apprentice decided to have a go himself before his superior returned. The carvings he created were sublime but not to the liking of the Master. On returning he saw the work and, enraged at the audacity of the young man, killed him with a blow to the skull with one of his tools. He was hanged but the other apprentices had a further punishment – they made a carving of his head into a wall looking down on the pillar so he had to look upon the pillar for all time.
Hear more about the Chapel and its legends from the expert Guides when you visit.
More recently, the chapel was the centre of the Da Vinci Code story and has attracted hundreds of thousands since the book was published in 2003.
Kids go free
Children will love using a free guide full of puzzles and activities to help them explore the fascinating building.
Other highlights include:
– Getting stuck in to the dressing up zone. Or using interactive activities such as working out how a stonemason would build an arch?
– Counting the angels and animals – there are a lot! Can you spot the angel playing bagpipes?
For teens who want to make history more real than text books, or students who want to know more, there’s plenty for all ages.
Whatever the weather
When the weather is good you can spend more time looking round the outside of the Chapel and spotting some of the key carvings; and where better to take a break than the coffee shop seating area on the terrace overlooking Roslin Glen.
If the rain comes there is more than enough to see and do inside the Chapel and visitor centre.
Visiting is easy
Located in Midlothian, there are public transport links from Edinburgh, as well as free parking. Visits are split into 90-minute slots – but you can take as much time as you like to discover the grounds and visitor centre if you want to make a day of it.
It’s free for children in a family group and a full-price adult ticket is only £10.50 (reduced price £9) – that ticket also allows you to apply for an annual pass at no extra charge. Meaning you can visit anytime in 12 months and maybe show off your surroundings if you have people to stay.
A charitable trust runs and manages Rosslyn Chapel – so your visit will help to look after this unique building for future generations.