Canongate Kirk Edinburgh
A historic 17th-century Presbyterian church on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, known for its architecture and the notable graves in its kirkyard.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Canongate Kirk Edinburgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 17th-century Presbyterian church on Edinburgh's Royal Mile, known for its architecture and the notable graves in its kirkyard.
"A charming, humble church with a unique yet beautiful design and style."
🚶♀️ Explore the Kirkyard
Wander the historic cemetery; it's peaceful and holds many notable graves.
♿ Fully Accessible
The kirk is accessible with no steps and a disabled toilet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Adam Smith's Grave
Canongate Kirkyard
Pay respects to the father of modern economics, Adam Smith, buried in this historic cemetery.
Historic Kirkyard
Canongate Kirkyard
Wander through a peaceful, historic cemetery with ancient trees and notable resting places.
Architectural Charm
Canongate Kirk
Admire the unique and beautiful 17th-century Presbyterian architecture of this significant Edinburgh landmark.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessibility & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Kirkyard
Wander the historic cemetery; it's peaceful and holds many notable graves.
♿ Fully Accessible
The kirk is accessible with no steps and a disabled toilet.
📜 Gravestone Translations
Some gravestones have ancient Greek inscriptions; look for translations online!
🎶 Check Concert Schedule
The kirk hosts concerts; check their schedule for a unique experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Kirkyard
Wander the historic cemetery; it's peaceful and holds many notable graves.
♿ Fully Accessible
The kirk is accessible with no steps and a disabled toilet.
📜 Gravestone Translations
Some gravestones have ancient Greek inscriptions; look for translations online!
🎶 Check Concert Schedule
The kirk hosts concerts; check their schedule for a unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Canongate Kirk to be a charming and architecturally interesting historical building, complemented by its peaceful and significant kirkyard. Many appreciate its accessibility and the opportunity to visit the graves of notable Scots like Adam Smith. The church's concert program also adds to its appeal.
"A pretty kirk with a few interesting artifacts to see. The building is architecturally interesting and surrounded by a beautiful graveyard.
The kirk has no steps and is fully accessible to people who use a wheelchair or have mobility issues. There is a disabled toilet.
They have an induction loop."
Shelley C
"A charming, humble church with a unique yet beautiful design and style. Adam Smith’s grave is also located right in the garden."
Mehdi
"Canongate Kirkyard is a peaceful and historic cemetery on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where notable Scots rest beneath ancient trees and timeless stonework."
Ali Asghar Aghili
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Canongate Kirk is located on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. It's easily accessible by foot from the city center. Numerous bus routes also stop nearby along the Royal Mile. +1
Yes, Canongate Kirk is situated at the lower end of the Royal Mile, a significant walk downhill from Edinburgh Castle. The walk itself offers many sights.
From Edinburgh Airport, you can take a tram or a bus (like the Airlink 100) to the city center, then walk or take another bus to the Royal Mile.
Parking in Edinburgh's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk.
Absolutely! Canongate Kirk is a key landmark on the Royal Mile and can easily be incorporated into a day exploring Edinburgh's historic heart.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Canongate Kirk itself is typically free, as it is a working church. However, donations are appreciated.
Opening hours can vary as it's a place of worship. It's best to check the official Canongate Kirk website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
The kirkyard is generally accessible without an admission fee, allowing visitors to explore the historic gravestones.
Yes, you can attend services, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the space. Check the church's schedule for service times.
While official guided tours might not always be available, the historical significance and notable graves in the kirkyard offer a self-guided exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful 17th-century architecture and a sense of history. It's a place of worship with a serene atmosphere.
The kirkyard is famous for being the resting place of notable Scots, including economist Adam Smith, and features interesting gravestones and ancient trees.
Yes, the kirk is fully accessible with no steps and a disabled toilet. The kirkyard may have uneven terrain in places.
Photography rules can vary. It's respectful to ask permission or check for signage regarding photography inside the church.
Yes, Canongate Kirk has a busy concert program. Check their schedule for upcoming musical performances.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the kirk, especially with its distinctive architecture, and the atmospheric kirkyard offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, photography is permitted in the kirkyard for personal use, but always be respectful of the site and any ongoing services or events.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful moods for photographing the kirk and its surroundings.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historic buildings. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Yes, photographing gravestones is usually allowed for personal interest, but avoid disturbing the site or other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the kirk itself is a place of worship, the surrounding kirkyard offers space for children to explore respectfully. Ensure they understand the importance of being quiet and mindful in a cemetery. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the grounds.
🏛️ History Buffs
The kirkyard is a highlight, featuring the graves of prominent figures like Adam Smith and Robert Fergusson. The inscriptions on some of the older gravestones, including those with ancient Greek text, offer a unique historical puzzle to decipher.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take advantage of the accessible facilities and the quiet nature of the site to enjoy a moment of calm. The kirkyard offers plenty to discover, from notable graves to intriguing inscriptions, making it an engaging solo exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Canongate Kirk
The Canongate Kirkyard, adjacent to the kirk, is a treasure trove of history. It's the final resting place for many eminent Scots, most famously the renowned economist Adam Smith. Other notable figures interred here include Robert Fergusson, a significant Scottish poet, and the murdered private secretary of Mary, Queen of Scots. The gravestones themselves tell stories, with some featuring ancient inscriptions that have intrigued visitors for years.
The kirk also holds a special place in the hearts of some prominent figures. It's noted that Queen Elizabeth II had a fondness for this particular spot in Edinburgh. Beyond its historical and religious importance, Canongate Kirk is also known for its vibrant concert program, adding a cultural dimension to this historic site.
Exploring the Canongate Kirkyard
Look out for the gravestone of Robert Fergusson, a poet whose work influenced Robert Burns. His monument is often noted for its inscription. The kirkyard also holds the remains of figures connected to royal history, adding layers of intrigue to your exploration. Some gravestones feature inscriptions in ancient languages, prompting curiosity and research.
When exploring the kirkyard, wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven. Take your time to read the inscriptions and imagine the lives of those buried here. It’s a quiet and reflective space, offering a stark contrast to the bustling Royal Mile just steps away.
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