This 600-year-old chapel is one of Scotland’s gems and has treats and events for winter and Christmas 2025
Whether you want to be wowed by the last autumn colours of the glen, intrigued by history and mystery, enchanted by candlelit Christmas concerts, or just want a lovely day out and a fantastic café, then this is a must-visit venue.
Rosslyn Chapel is stunning in all seasons, and autumn and winter are no exceptions. This Scottish gem is on the doorstep of our capital, just seven miles south of Edinburgh, and welcomes visitors from across the Globe thanks to its links including with the Da Vinci Code.
But there is so much more to it than a brush with Hollywood glamour. Visitor numbers in autumn and winter mean you can enjoy a more peaceful experience, with plenty of time to take in all the features of the building.
You can take in a talk from one of the knowledgeable guides who will help you make the most of exploring the chapel, founded in 1446 or discover its wonders for yourself by following the free guide map.
Almost every surface inside and outside this 600-year-old building is carved. This is not only a breath-taking display of incredible craftsmanship by the stonemasons, for you to marvel at, but also makes for intriguing discoveries, finding famous features like the Apprentice Pillar, the green man, the bagpipe-playing angel and many more.
Seasonal treats
The Christmas tree at Rosslyn Chapel is a sight to behold. The tree itself, a gift from local Midlothian estate Dalkeith Country Park, arrives in early December ready to be adorned.
There are a host of events planned for the festive season to delight young and old, which become truly magical in these very special surroundings.
Christmas events – book now
- Candlelit visits: An evening visit to Rosslyn Chapel by candlelight is absolutely magical and conjures up the very essence of Christmas. Listen to tales of history and mystery from our Guide and wander around the glowing chapel – interior photography is allowed to capture memories to treasure. The visitor centre and shop will be open so you can browse for gifts with a 20% discount available (excluding alcohol and other promotions) and a free guidebook for every household. But hurry to book your space. Numbers are restricted to just 30 people and these events take place on December 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7pm.
- Winter storytelling: Storyteller Dougie Mackay fronts an afternoon of winter-themed storytelling in the Lady Chapel. Suitable for families with children aged 4 and up, the ticket price also includes a hot chocolate in the coffee shop. Friday December 5, 3pm.
- Laudemus Virginem - Medieval Christmas with Gaita; The chapel’s acoustics come into their own with the sound of magical Mediaeval music. Gaita will evoke the medieval Christmas spirit with a selection of songs and dance tunes in praise of Virgin Mary, performed on period instruments. Enjoy this unique festive treat in the wonderful candlelit atmosphere of Rosslyn Chapel. Saturday 13th December, 7.30pm
Tickets are available for the candlelit visits, winter storytelling and Gaita concert and some events in early 2026 – click here for more details and to book.
Christmas services
Rosslyn Chapel, originally known as the Collegiate Church of St Matthew, is still a working church and of course will be open for services this Christmas. Check the website for details of regular and Christmas services
Glorious gifts
Chapel Advent calendars, Advent candles Christmas cards and unusual decorations are all available from the website shop and every purchase supports the work of the Chapel Trust.
You could also give the gift that keeps on giving – a day out at the Chapel. An experience pack includes admission for two, tea or coffee and a cake for two and a guidebook in a presentation folder. Visit the website here, and click on ‘shop’. The shop stocks a range of products, sourced from Scotland, which make great souvenirs or gifts – see this article for more details
Literary inspiration
There are still a few weeks to take in the last of the autumn colours displayed across Roslin Glen. This vista and the chapel have inspired poets and novelists alike from Robbie Burns to Wordsworth, Walter Scott to Lord Byron, as well as Dan Brown.
Visit the Chapel
Late autumn at Rosslyn Chapel is a wonderful time to visit – the summer crowds have gone and the stunning landscape in and above Roslin Glen is resplendent with amazing seasonal colours. And as autumn turns to winter the Christmassy warmth inside the chapel – not to mention the hot chocolate and soup in the coffee shop, are a welcome treat.
A visit here is more than just a history lesson; the interactive touch screens which help you find your favourite carvings, dressing up for all ages, and enjoying refreshments and some shopping all make for a full day out.
Easy to reach and you can book ahead
Rosslyn Chapel is just seven miles south of Edinburgh, enjoying a good bus service to and from city centre. Alternatively, there is free parking on site.
Book online to guarantee your visit – £11.50 full price/ £9.50 reduced price (adults aged 65+, visitors who are disabled, unemployed, students, Armed Services). It is free for children in a family group.
If one visit is not enough, upgrade your day ticket to an annual pass for no extra cost.