Princes Street to Rosslyn: Your Travel Guide

Planning a trip from the bustling heart of Edinburgh to the enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel? Many visitors find themselves on Princes Street, a prime location in the city centre, wondering about the most convenient way to reach this iconic landmark. Fortunately, getting to Roslin from Edinburgh is a straightforward journey, primarily served by local bus routes. This guide will detail your options, estimated travel times, and some key points to consider for a smooth and enjoyable excursion.

Getting to Roslin Chapel by Bus from Princes Street

The most popular and direct method of travel from Princes Street to Roslin is by bus. Lothian Buses operates the service that will take you to the vicinity of Rosslyn Chapel. The key bus route to look out for is the 37/N37.

The Lothian Buses 37/N37 Service

The Lothian Buses 37 service is your primary chariot to Roslin. This route originates from Princes Street in central Edinburgh and travels south towards Penicuik, with a crucial stop in Roslin village, close to the renowned chapel.

Journey Time and Frequency

The journey from Princes Street to the Original Rosslyn Hotel (the main stop for the chapel) typically takes approximately 48 minutes. This duration includes any minor transfers or variations in traffic flow. The 37 bus is a frequent service, with buses departing from Princes Street approximately every 15 minutes during operational hours. The N37 is the night bus service, offering a similar route but with different timings and potentially slightly different pricing.

Departure Point

You can catch the Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel bus directly from Princes Street station. Look out for the designated Lothian Buses stops along Princes Street, typically well-signposted.

Arrival Point

The bus will arrive in the village of Roslin. The stop closest to Rosslyn Chapel is usually near the Original Rosslyn Hotel. From this stop, it's a short walk to the chapel itself. Always listen to the driver or check the bus's display for the correct stop for Rosslyn Chapel.

Bus Fares and Ticketing

For those making a day trip, purchasing a day ticket can be cost-effective. Lothian Buses offer various ticketing options:

• Single Ticket: For a one-way journey.
• Day Ticket: Allows unlimited travel on Lothian Buses services within a specified zone for a full day. This is often the best value for tourists.

Ticket prices can vary, but historically, a day ticket for an adult has been around £4, with single tickets costing less. It's always advisable to check the latest fares directly with Lothian Buses or on their app before your journey. You can usually pay with contactless payment, exact change, or through their mobile app.

Other Bus Options (with a walk)

While the 37 is the most direct route, other Lothian Buses services might take you to nearby areas, requiring a short walk into Roslin. These are less direct but can be an alternative if timings don't align perfectly.

• Bus 15 (Edinburgh-Penicuik): This route also stops at the Gowkley Moss Roundabout, which is a walk of about 20 minutes from Roslin village.
• Bus 47 (Edinburgh-Penicuik): Similar to the 15, this bus stops at the Bilston and Gowkley Moss roundabouts, necessitating a walk.
• Bus 67 (Edinburgh Bush Estate): This service stops at the Gowkley Moss Roundabout, again requiring a walk.

These options are generally less recommended if your sole aim is to reach Rosslyn Chapel directly, but they offer flexibility if you're exploring other parts of Midlothian.

Travelling to Roslin by Car

If you prefer to drive, Roslin is located approximately 7 miles (11km) south of Edinburgh's city centre. The journey is relatively short, typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• From the North: Follow signs for the A720, the Edinburgh City By-pass. Take the exit at "Straiton Junction" and follow the signs for Roslin and Penicuik.

There is parking available near Rosslyn Chapel, though it can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to check the official Rosslyn Chapel website for the most up-to-date parking information and any associated fees.

About Roslin and Rosslyn Chapel

Roslin is a tranquil village nestled in Midlothian, famously seven miles south of Edinburgh. While the village itself is charming, its international renown comes from two key associations:

• The Roslin Institute: This is where the world's first cloned sheep, Dolly, was created in 1997, a significant milestone in scientific history.
• Rosslyn Chapel: This late-Gothic architectural marvel is steeped in mystery and intricate artistry.

The chapel's construction began in the 15th century, intended as a grand collegiate church dedicated to St Matthew. However, only a portion was completed before construction halted shortly after the founder's death in 1484. Subsequent additions, like the vestry built centuries later, are modest compared to the original vision.

Architectural Marvels and Legends

Rosslyn Chapel is renowned for its exceptionally detailed stone carvings. The exterior features a profusion of pinnacles, gargoyles, and flying buttresses. Inside, the foliage carving is particularly outstanding, with botanically accurate depictions of numerous plants and leaves. Intriguingly, some of these carvings, such as cacti and Indian corn, suggest that the chapel's founder's grandfather, Prince Henry of Orkney, may have travelled to the New World long before Columbus, a notion supported by local legends.

The chapel is often referred to as a "Bible in stone" due to its rich figurative sculptures, which are more allegorical than literal. They depict themes such as the Dance of Death, the Seven Acts of Mercy, and the Seven Deadly Sins.

A standout feature is the "Prentice Pillar", an extraordinarily ornate knotted pillar in the Lady Chapel. Legend has it that an apprentice carved this masterpiece while the master mason was away. Upon returning and seeing the pillar, the master mason, in a fit of jealousy, murdered the apprentice. A small carved head with a slashed forehead, located on the ceiling, is popularly believed to represent the murdered apprentice, with a corresponding head on the opposite side symbolising the killer.

Conspiracy Theories and Modern Fascination

Rosslyn Chapel has become a focal point for numerous theories and speculations, ranging from connections to the Freemasons and the Turin Shroud to sightings of UFOs. While these theories add to the chapel's mystique, the site itself is undeniably a captivating destination for its history, architecture, and artistry alone. It's a place that continues to inspire awe and intrigue, making it a highly recommended visit for anyone travelling to Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the quickest way to get from Princes Street to Rosslyn Chapel?

A: The quickest and most direct way is to take the Lothian Buses 37/N37 service from Princes Street, which takes approximately 48 minutes.

Q: How often does the bus run?

A: The 37 bus typically runs every 15 minutes during its operational hours.

Q: Where do I catch the bus from on Princes Street?

A: You can catch the bus from the designated Lothian Buses stops along Princes Street. Look for clear signage.

Q: How long does the bus journey take?

A: The journey from Princes Street to the stop nearest Rosslyn Chapel takes about 45-48 minutes.

Q: Can I walk from the bus stop to the chapel?

A: Yes, the bus stop in Roslin village is a short walk from Rosslyn Chapel.

Q: Is there parking in Roslin?

A: Yes, there is parking available near Rosslyn Chapel, but it can get busy.

In conclusion, whether you opt for the convenience of the bus or the flexibility of a car, reaching Roslin from Princes Street is an accessible and rewarding experience. The journey itself offers a glimpse into the Scottish landscape as you leave the city behind and venture towards the historical and enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel.