Church of the Holy Rude

In the heart of Stirling’s old town, the Church of the Holy Rude rises in timeless stone. Founded in the 12th century and rebuilt in the 1400s, it’s one of only three churches in Britain to host a coronation—James VI in 1567. Surrounded by historic grounds and with Stirling Castle as its backdrop, the church holds centuries of faith, power, and memory. Visiting this site was amazing, highly recommended for anyone visiting the Castle.

It started raining, so I popped into this church on my way to the castle — and I'm so glad I did. It's quite unassuming from the outside but the interior is absolutely stunning and steeped in history (James IV was coronated here!). The woman at the desk (I can't recall her name, but I remember she was a Kiwi!) was fantastic — a true historian with a genuine passion for Scottish history. It was breathtaking just to wander around, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful light from stained glass windows. The kirkyard outside was equally fascinating, with headstones spanning several centuries. I’d definitely recommend stopping by this church if you're heading to the castle — it's such a special place.

I think anything you look at in this area will be phenomenal! You don’t see things like this in North America that’s for sure. So hard to take it all in and enjoy the sights. Road ways very steep and unsteady. We just walked around the outside of it but the church is gorgeous

We were wandering around Stirling and it started raining. Decided to pay the 5 pound/per permission admission fee and explore Church of the Holy Rude. The admission fee goes towards the conversation efforts of this medieval church. It is a stunning structure with so much history in its walls. The exhibits were informative but the star of the show was Russell. He was so friendly and knowledgeable, sharing his wealth of information about the church and really interesting pieces of history about Scotland. I highly recommend making this church a stopping point in your itinerary when you are in Stirling.

I can just picture myself in the medieval era, walking around this lovely old church. It's a bit of a scary place, but in a way that makes it special. I really hope people didn't have to pay to get in back then! Oh my, a £5 entry fee to enter the church! I've never seen anything like it, not even in Italy where there are some truly incredible churches built by the world's best ever artists, not in Prague Known as the City of a Hundred Spires... I always thought a church was a lovely, peaceful place to pray or just enjoy the silence. We strolled around outside instead. The Church was founded way back in 1129, during the reign of David I. The earliest part of the church we see today was built in the 15th century. The church has a rich history spanning so many centuries! It's been there through so many important moments in Scottish history, from the Battle of Stirling Bridge to the coronation of King James VI.

Most visitors to Stirling head to the nearby palace, but often miss this unassuming church by the local churchyard, yet it is the actual site of the coronation of kings. You'll be greeted by friendly ladies at the entrance and given a leaflet in your own language. The church is a beautiful example of Nordic Gothic. The original wooden beamed roof and many stained glass windows are probably the most impressive features. Also worth mentioning is the very well maintained old churchyard around the church, where you will also find a hilltop with beautiful views over the surrounding area, including Stirling Palace.

Lovely Church to visit. We visited shortly after they opened which meant we were able to experience the stillness within the building (a small perk in my books). The team onsite were informative and helpful and happily let us explore and wonder around. There is so much history packed into the church - and the stained glass windows speak this for themselves. Definitely worth a visit

We did not get to go into the church as they were closed, which is unfortunate. The outside is beautiful and the graveyard holds so much history in it. Being on a hilltop, the views are stunning.

This church is a beauty. The kind you'd dream endlessly of getting married in; a big and white and regal and grandiose wedding or a simple, stripped-back minimalist wedding. Either way, I get the feeling that this building would lend itself well to any occasion as it's just so very striking as it stands. But I'm thinking harps and doves...Such is the beauty of the Holy Rude! To spend any amount of time here, no matter the reason, is a treat. It really is stunning! I was lucky enough to have visited the church recently when I volunteered for Creative Stirling at their second birthday event. With art installations, spoken word and a choir performance, the building made for the perfect ambience and the church congregation staff on hand couldn't have been more welcoming, and also helpful in both the setting up and packing up the event. So the Church of the Holy Rude impresses. She's huge, beautiful and, most definitely a church that's well worth a visit when you're up the top o' the town, whether it's castle-visiting or a scenic wander that's on the agenda. Foodie tip: Pop over to John Cowane's Coffee House for lunch. They are the sweetest and you won't be disappointed!

This is an old historical church at the very top of the town. I have been here to see choirs perform, and it is a beautiful setting. Stirling Gaelic Choir perform here on occasion, and there is a christmas carol concert every year. Visiting choirs also do recitals here - keep an eye out for details on flyers in town! It would be nice to see this significant and beautiful building be used for more arts events. It is a shame to think of it lying empty six days a week.

Peaceful place. Lots of history. Run here before you go to the castle. Look around, see the Windows, visit the alter too. Visit the cemetery too. Interesting tombs.