St Columba's-by-the-Castle

St Columba's-by-the-Castle is a stone church on Johnston Terrace with a single-nave layout and a crenellated tower featuring triple arcading on its west wall. The interior features oak paneling from 1914 and a mural in the space where the east window is now blocked.

The building was constructed using stone salvaged from the palace of Mary of Guise, a 16th-century queen regent of Scotland. This material connection links the church directly to royal history on the Royal Mile.

The church serves as a gathering place for the local religious community through regular worship and weekly activities hosted throughout the building. It functions as part of an ecumenical partnership, reflecting how different faith traditions share and use this space today.

The church is accessible during regular worship hours and can also host various community events throughout the week. It is helpful to check specific opening times in advance, as these may vary depending on activities and seasons.

Inside, a notable 1959 mural titled 'Christ Enthroned' by artist John Busby fills the space where the east window once opened. This artwork becomes the main visual focus of the interior, set against the backdrop of dark oak paneling.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Inception: 1847

Website: http://stcolumbasbythecastle.org.uk/main

GPS coordinates: 55.94830,-3.19550

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:03