Explore relics from the Middle Ages and pay tribute to an infamous massacre at the touching memorial in this 13th-century cathedral.
Dunblane Cathedral is a medieval church that blends Romanesque and Gothic designs. Its earliest part is the tower, which dates back to the 12th century. Other sections were added to the church over the centuries to reflect changing styles. Capture photos from afar of the majestic cathedral and its adjoining cemetery.
Arrive at the church and inspect the intricately carved Gothic façade on the western side. Note how the lower half has Romanesque features, while the top part is Gothic. Gaze up at the red sandstone bell tower that has survived almost 1,000 years and stands six stories tall. It was originally part of a pre-existing religious structure, thus explaining its unusual position at the southern wall of the nave.
Enter the church to see its tall nave with majestic columns and arches flanking the pews. The 15th-century choir stalls are among the highlights, due to their rarity and nicely preserved condition. Appreciate the collection of 19th-century furniture throughout the interior. Discover the Pictish carved stones from the Middle Ages.
View the carved stone in the south aisle marking the 1996 Dunblane Massacre, when a gunman murdered 16 children and a teacher at a nearby school. It remains among the deadliest assaults in British history and played a huge role in enacting gun restrictions. Be sure to stop by the other remembrance plaque in the garden outside the church to read the poignant and fitting quotes from acclaimed writers.
Learn about the famous weddings at this site, such as that of British tennis star Andy Murray. Officially, it is no longer a cathedral, due to the absence of bishops in the Church of Scotland. Listen to tales about the church, which was without a roof from the end of the 16th century until 1893.
Enter the cathedral, which opens daily from morning until late afternoon, for free. It also opens on Sunday afternoons. The church accepts donations.
Dunblane Cathedral is in the center of the small town near Stirling in central Scotland. It is just north of the Dunblane Museum and the Dunblane New Golf Club.
