St Mary's Cathedral
Religious Site Prominent Scottish cathedral with Gothic Revival architecture
A Scottish St Mary’s Cathedral features Gothic Revival architecture, stained glass and an active choir; visitors attend services, organ recitals and occasional guided tours.
St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh is the cathedral of the Scottish Episcopal Church’s Diocese of Edinburgh, located on Palmerston Place in the West End of the city.
The building is a Gothic Revival cathedral completed and extended in the late 19th century, with stained glass, an organ and liturgical furnishings consistent with Episcopal worship. It functions as a diocesan seat and hosts regular services and musical events.
The cathedral was built and modified during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting the Victorian-era interest in medieval church forms and ecclesiastical revival.
It stands near the New Town and the Meadows, within central Edinburgh and a short walk from Princes Street and other city centre landmarks.
- Diocesan seat: Serves as the cathedral of the Scottish Episcopal Diocese of Edinburgh and is an example of Gothic Revival architecture in the city.
How to Get to St Mary's Cathedral #
St Mary’s Cathedral is in the centre of its city (Scotland) - if you’re already in the city centre it’s a short walk from main rail and bus stops. For visitors arriving by car, follow the city’s main approach roads into the centre and use nearby public car parks; walking distances from central transport hubs are typically under 15 minutes.
Tips for Visiting St Mary's Cathedral #
- Visit outside major service times (check the cathedral's published schedule) to see the interior and any exhibitions without interruption.
- Look for announced concerts or organ recitals-the cathedral regularly hosts musical events and the schedule is often posted on its website or noticeboard.
Best Time to Visit St Mary's Cathedral #
St Mary's Cathedral in Scotland is open year‑round; visit in shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for milder weather and fewer crowds, or summer for longer days and busier city life.
Weather & Climate near St Mary's Cathedral #
St Mary's Cathedral's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 19°C. Moderate rainfall (648 mm/year), distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 66 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
