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 at a Glance#
About St Mary's Cathedral#
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.