Canongate Kirk

When stepping up to Canongate Kirk you may be excused for not quite knowing what the building is, the front is unusual with its flat facade, heavy Doric porch and strange Dutch style gable, topped by a set of real antlers.

Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh

Opening times

Between May and September, the Kirk is open to visitors. Members of the congregation are on hand during the morning and afternoon to welcome you and to share our ancient church with you. You will find information about our church available in Afrikaan, Croatian, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Scots, and Spanish.

Address

Canongate
Edinburgh
City of Edinburgh
EH8 8BN

Above the porch is a plaque to Thomas Moodie, who left money in his will to build this conundrum.

It was opened in 1691, and its layout is unique for its time.

Canongage is the parish church for the Palace of Holyrood House, the home of the Queen in Scotland, which explains the Royal pew at the front of the church and the military colours hanging over the nave.

The white interior, with much pale blue painted woodwork including pews, give a startling, elegant effect.

Key features