Visited July 2024

Location	Edinburgh
Entrance Fee	No
Railway Station Nearby	Edinburgh
Parking	City Car Parks
Facilities	None
Map

Up on the hill in Edinburgh's Holyrood Park, the ruins of St Anthony's Chapel sit in isolation overlooking the city, and Holyrood Abbey, with which it was once affiliated. 

Review

For a building in such a prominent situation, little is known about its construction. It is thought to date back to the 1300's and was probably in use up until the Reformation, when Holyrood Abbey would have been closed down; making the chapel superfluous also.

There are not many remains left today for the modern day visitor to see. The masonry that is left is a vaulted part of the North wall. It is not so much the amount of ruin left today, but the situation of it. The site can be seen from miles around, and then when you walk up the well-worn path to the chapel, you are rewarded by views over the city of Edinburgh and towards the River Forth. For the views alone it is worth the climb!

Now for the practicalities. The path up to the chapel is easy to find, and is of reasonable standard, although steep at times. It is also worn in some places so take care with the kids. It is also very busy up there, so if you like solitude at your sites then this is perhaps not going to fulfil that remit, especially in the busy summer months. It is also a stop off on the way up to Arthur's Seat, which is the highest point in Holyrood Park and the remains of an ancient volcano. This is also a very busy spot so be warned. 

It is a pleasant excursion for young and old alike, assuming no mobility problems. There are no facilities up at the chapel, but plenty down in Edinburgh below.

More info:  St Anthony's Chapel Ruins