Thistle Chapel

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Best Hotels with Fishing Near Thistle Chapel

Tucked inside St Giles' Cathedral, the Thistle Chapel is one of Edinburgh's hidden gems. This exquisite Gothic chapel, built in 1911, serves as the spiritual home of Scotland's Order of the Thistle. Marvel at the intricate woodcarvings - each stall bears a unique knight's crest, while sunlight filters through vibrant stained glass. Don't miss the mischievous elf sculpture hidden beneath the seats, said to be the craftsman's playful signature. Join a guided tour to uncover its ties with the Scottish monarchy, where whispers of history echo under the vaulted ceiling.

Featured
Best Price
Top Reviewed
Star Rating
#HotelStarsRatingReviewsDistance
1InnerCityLets - Royal Mile★★★★★5-0.14 km
2Edinburgh Western Harbour★★★★4.2-4.2 km
3Edinburgh - Houseboats★★★★4.2-1.33 km
4Lauderville Guest House★★★★4.7-2.19 km
52 Bed Aprtmt- Waterfront, 5 Beds, Parking★★★★4.3-4.01 km
6Windsor Street Apartment★★★★4.4-1.08 km
7Stylish Apartment★★★★4.1-4.12 km
8Sheridan Guest House★★★★4.9-2.64 km
9Britannia Penthouse★★★★4.3-3.38 km
InnerCityLets - Royal Mile

InnerCityLets - Royal Mile

5 / 5Outstanding
199 The Royal Mile
0.14KM from Thistle Chapel

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this hotel is a dream come true for travelers! Whether you're looking to showcase your skills at the bowling alley, sweat it out on the tennis court, or rent a bike to explore the city, this place has it all. Wind down at the bar in the evening and soak up the local nightlife. With its prime location near the Royal Mile, you'll have easy access to hiking and fishing spots. Rated a perfect 5.0, it's the ideal choice for your stay!

Bowling AlleyBarHikingBicycle Rental ServiceFishingTennis Court
per night
From
USD**1
Edinburgh Western Harbour

Edinburgh Western Harbour

4.2 / 5Good
9/35 Western Harbour View
4.2KM from Thistle Chapel
Conference HallChildren's Play AreaBowling AlleyHikingSquash CourtBicycle Rental Service
per night
From
USD**0
Edinburgh - Houseboats

Edinburgh - Houseboats

4.2 / 5Good
Gilmore Bank, Lochrin Basin Ln
1.33KM from Thistle Chapel
Family-friendly HotelPicnic AreaChildren's Play AreaBarbecueFishingBarbecue Available
per night
From
USD**7
Lauderville Guest House

Lauderville Guest House

4.7 / 5Great
52 Mayfield Rd
2.19KM from Thistle Chapel
DryerHikingLuggage StorageFishingGolf CourseMedical Room
per night
From
USD**4
2 Bed Aprtmt- Waterfront, 5 Beds, Parking

2 Bed Aprtmt- Waterfront, 5 Beds, Parking

4.3 / 5Good
1 western harbour Breakwater
4.01KM from Thistle Chapel
Children's Play AreaBowling AlleyHikingSquash CourtMini GolfFishing
per night
From
USD**1
Windsor Street Apartment

Windsor Street Apartment

4.4 / 5Good
2 (2F1) Windsor Street
1.08KM from Thistle Chapel
Children's Play AreaBowling AlleyHikingSquash CourtMini GolfFishing
per night
From
USD**4
Stylish Apartment

Stylish Apartment

4.1 / 5Good
8/12 Western Harbour Midway
4.12KM from Thistle Chapel
Bowling AlleyPicnic AreaHikingLuggage StorageFishingAirport Drop-off Service
per night
From
USD**3
Sheridan Guest House

Sheridan Guest House

4.9 / 5Outstanding
1 Bonnington Terrace
2.64KM from Thistle Chapel
SailingLuggage StorageFishingParking
per night
From
USD**1
Britannia Penthouse

Britannia Penthouse

4.3 / 5Good
5-21 Portland Gardens
3.38KM from Thistle Chapel
FishingGolf CoursePet FriendlyParking
per night
From
USD**2

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Thistle Chapel

The Witchery by the Castle offers lavish Gothic suites just 5 minutes walk away, famous for its antique four-poster beds. For luxury, The Balmoral Hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant and Rocco Forte spa. Budget options include Ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre with quirky designs.

Yes! St Giles' Cathedral (where the chapel is located) offers 45-minute guided tours (£8/person) covering the chapel's heraldic carvings and secret drawer mechanisms. Private tours can be booked for knightly history enthusiasts, including access to rare archives.

The chapel boasts a stellar-vaulted ceiling adorned with 68 carved angels playing medieval instruments. Each rib converges at a central golden thistle, symbolizing Scotland's highest chivalric order. Photography is allowed but no flash to preserve the gilded details.

While no strict dress code, smart casual is recommended (no beachwear). During Order of the Thistle ceremonies (June/July), public access may be restricted. Check the St Giles' Cathedral website for special event notices.

Regular Sunday services at 11:00 AM are open to all. The chapel also hosts Evensong on Thursdays with its famous acoustics. Note: Photography is prohibited during services. The annual Thistle Service (July) requires advance ticket registration.

Within 5 minutes' walk: Edinburgh Castle (iconic views), The Real Mary King's Close (underground history), and National Museum of Scotland. Don't miss the Heart of Midlothian mosaic outside St Giles' – locals spit on it for luck!

Traveler Reviews

See what other travelers say about Thistle Chapel

HG*訪‍客
HG*訪‍客

InnerCityLets - Royal Mile

We stayed in a stunning, spotless apartment on Queen's Street for a week and couldn’t have been happier. The location was perfect—right in the heart of the New Town, just steps away from grocery stores, shops, and an amazing variety of restaurants. Each of us had our own private bedroom, so we had plenty of space to unwind in the evenings without feeling cramped. After a full week of exploring Edinburgh’s historic streets and walking everywhere, our group unanimously agreed that staying on the New Town side was the best decision. It made everything so much easier and more enjoyable. The apartment was clean, well-equipped, and offered a real home-away-from-home vibe. We’d definitely book again if we return to the area—highly recommend this stay!

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HG*訪‍客

Edinburgh - Houseboats

This was our first visit to Edinburgh, and we absolutely fell in love with the city—and especially with the Boatel, 'Wee Sisters'! From the moment we arrived, everything impressed us: the prime location just steps from the heart of town, the spotless cleanliness, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the fully equipped kitchen that made cooking a breeze. The TVs were clear, the beds comfy, and the little touches—like fresh flowers and thoughtful amenities—made the stay feel extra special. It was so convenient, relaxing, and truly unique. Huge thanks to Natalie and her team for creating such a memorable experience. We’ll definitely be back!

HG*訪‍客
HG*訪‍客

Lauderville Guest House

Simon was an exceptional host—warm, welcoming, and always ready to help. The rooms are beautifully designed with a perfect blend of charm and comfort, and they were spotless from top to bottom. Located just a short 5-10 minute cab ride from the Royal Mile, it’s incredibly convenient without being too close to the crowds. The neighborhood itself is so quaint and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing stay. I truly enjoyed every moment here and would absolutely come back. Highly recommend this gem if you're visiting Edinburgh.

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Stylish Apartment

The communication was excellent from start to finish—everything was exactly as shown on the listing, which made me feel confident and relaxed. The apartment is clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough for a family getaway. It’s located in a quiet area but still within easy reach of Edinburgh’s main attractions via public transport. I loved how thoughtfully it was designed with comfort and convenience in mind. If you're looking for a cozy, reliable place to stay with your family, this is absolutely a top choice. Highly recommend it!

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HG*g‍u‍y‍r‍4‍9‍9

Sheridan Guest House

Staying at Sheridan Guest House was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—just steps away from both bus stops and convenient parking, making it easy to explore Edinburgh without stress. The property itself is beautifully decorated with a cozy, thoughtful touch in every corner; cleanliness is top-notch, and the quiet neighborhood adds to the peaceful vibe. The hosts are genuinely warm and welcoming—they went out of their way to make us feel at home. Breakfast was especially impressive: generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a nice mix of local flavors. It’s rare to find such charm, comfort, and hospitality in one place. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable experience. I’d happily return and recommend it to anyone visiting Edinburgh.

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InterContinental Edinburgh The George

Honestly, just one word: amazing! From the moment I walked in, everything about this hotel exceeded my expectations. The breakfast was outstanding—plenty of variety and delicious quality, with staff who were friendly and attentive without being overbearing. I stayed in room 44, a unique loft-style layout that felt quirky and cool—definitely not your average hotel room. Despite being split-level, it was incredibly quiet, making for a peaceful night’s sleep. I loved the bathroom amenities—they used my favorite brand, Baudruche, and the scent alone made me feel pampered. Granted, the room size isn’t huge compared to some mainland hotels, but considering I was staying in a beautifully preserved historic building right in the heart of Edinburgh, it felt like a real privilege. The location is fantastic—walkable to major sights and super convenient for public transit. Everything about this stay screamed quality and charm. If I ever come back to Edinburgh, this will be my first choice again. A truly unforgettable experience.

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Kimpton Charlotte Square

From the moment we arrived, the warm hospitality at Kimpton Charlotte Square made our stay in Edinburgh truly special. A huge shoutout to Brian from the concierge team—he was absolutely outstanding! Not only does he speak seven languages fluently, but his knowledge of local spots and genuine kindness made every interaction a pleasure. Whether it was recommending hidden gems or helping with last-minute travel plans, he went above and beyond with a smile. His professionalism and personal touch turned what could’ve been just another hotel stay into an unforgettable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, combined with the charming atmosphere of the hotel, made this place feel like home. I’d highly recommend this gem to any traveler looking for warmth, style, and exceptional service—truly a standout in Edinburgh.

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The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton

Staying at The Caledonian Edinburgh was an absolute highlight of our trip. Located right at the intersection of Princes Street and Lothian Street, it sits perfectly between Old Town and New Town—just a short walk from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, with views of the fortress from the front door. The hotel itself is a historic building with rich heritage, once visited by legends like Arthur Conan Doyle, which made it extra special for us as devoted Sherlock Holmes fans. The breakfast was a classic English spread, but what stood out most was the waffle served with honey straight from a whole, fresh honeycomb—such a unique and memorable touch. There’s also a beautiful garden restaurant in the atrium, though we were pressed for time and didn’t get to experience it. Still, the atmosphere alone adds so much charm. From the location to the details, every element felt thoughtfully curated. A truly exceptional stay that exceeded expectations.

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HG*1‍8‍6‍0‍6‍8‍8‍*‍*‍*‍*

Prestonfield House

Staying at Prestonfield House felt like stepping into a classic British country estate—seriously elegant and full of charm. The property is nestled in a private grounds, giving it a peaceful, secluded vibe that’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. While the location is a bit off the beaten path, it's easily accessible by train or car, and the surrounding countryside adds to the overall experience. The architecture and interiors are incredibly photogenic—every corner looks like a scene from a period drama. The only minor downside is some noticeable sound transfer between floors, so quiet moments might be interrupted occasionally. But honestly, the ambiance, privacy, and unique character more than make up for it. A truly memorable stay with high value for money.

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The Balmoral Hotel

Staying at The Balmoral Hotel was an absolutely unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the location was perfect—just a five-minute walk to Calton Hill, and everything else in the Old Town, Rainbow Street, and Royal Mile was within easy reach. The hotel itself feels like a living piece of history, with elegant architecture and timeless charm. I couldn’t help but stop by room 552—the door painted a striking purple, which added such a unique touch. It’s said that J.K. Rowling found inspiration here while writing the final book in the Harry Potter series, and it’s easy to imagine why. The views from the windows are breathtaking, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. If you’re looking for a blend of luxury, history, and convenience in Edinburgh, this is the place to be. Highly recommended.

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HG*M‍2‍5‍7‍8‍4‍8‍*‍*‍*‍*

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

My stay at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh was absolutely outstanding. I booked a Club Level room with a view of Edinburgh Castle—waking up to that iconic skyline was breathtaking, especially during sunrise. The hotel has a side entrance just steps away from the castle gates, making access incredibly convenient. Whether you're heading to Princes Street, Calton Hill, or exploring the Old Town, everything is within easy walking distance—no need for taxis or buses. The service truly stood out. Staff were genuinely warm and attentive, going above and beyond to make me feel welcome. In all my travels across Europe, this is hands down the best hospitality experience I've had at a hotel. As a Club Level guest, I had access to the exclusive lounge, where breakfast and evening canapés were served—both well-prepared and satisfying. Coffee was available throughout the day, perfect for early risers or late-night relaxations. The spa facilities are impressive too; while some premium treatments require an extra fee, the sauna, steam rooms, and wellness areas are thoughtfully designed and create a peaceful retreat. The room itself was comfortable and clean, with a spacious bathroom. It’s not the largest room, but it’s well-proportioned and functional. One minor downside? No balcony—but honestly, that didn’t detract from the overall experience. The fitness centre is large and well-equipped, with a good selection of machines and a lovely pool area. Just wish the closing time could be extended a little later into the evening. Overall, this hotel delivers on every front—location, views, service, amenities, and atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Edinburgh. I’ll definitely come back here next time.

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The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection

Staying at The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection in Edinburgh was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. What truly stood out was the outdoor terrace—overlooking the heart of Edinburgh’s skyline with stunning views that made every morning and evening feel special. The service was exceptional too—staff went above and beyond with genuine warmth and attention to detail, making us feel welcomed from the moment we arrived. Every interaction felt personal and thoughtful. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between luxury and charm, and it’s clear they care about guest experience. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Edinburgh who wants a memorable, high-quality stay.