Dunkeld Cathedral

Dunkeld Cathedral stands on the bank of the River Tay in the small town of Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross, central Scotland. The restored choir is still the town's Church of Scotland parish church, while the roofless nave and the tower are a ruin looked after by Historic Environment Scotland.

What is the story behind Dunkeld Cathedral?

A Pictish monastery occupied this riverside site long before the present building. Kenneth MacAlpin is recorded as bringing relics of St Columba here in 849, and in 1114 King David I reorganised Scotland's bishoprics, naming Cormac as the first Bishop of Dunkeld. Construction dragged on for roughly 250 years: the nave dates to 1406, and work on the tower and its off-centre window began in 1469.

After the Reformation of 1560 the nave lost its roof and has stayed a shell ever since. The choir was repaired in 1908 with funds largely from Sir Donald Currie, and the Dukes of Atholl spent heavily on upkeep over the centuries.

What can you see?

• The choir and parish church – a working place of worship with a calm, plain interior.
• The ruined nave and tower – the best-known silhouette in town, easy to photograph from the grounds.
• Tomb of the Wolf of Badenoch – the weathered monument of Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan, carved with an armoured figure.
• Chapter House Museum – a small display of monastic relics and local history.
• Riverside grounds – lawns and mature trees running down to the Tay.

Gavin Douglas, the poet who translated Virgil's Aeneid into Scots, was once bishop here.

When can you visit, and what does it cost?

Historic Environment Scotland lists free entry. From 1 April to 30 September the site opens daily 9.30am to 5.30pm, last entry 5pm. From 1 October to 31 March it opens daily 10am to 4pm, last entry 3.30pm. It closes on 25 and 26 December and 1 and 2 January. Dogs other than guide dogs are not allowed.

Following high-level masonry inspections, access to the ruined nave and tower has been restricted, while the parish church and the grounds stayed open. Check the Historic Environment Scotland page for the current position and dunkeldcathedral.org for service times.

Spring and summer bring long days and green grounds; autumn colour along the Tay is also a strong draw.

Frequently asked questions

Is Dunkeld Cathedral free to enter?

Yes, Historic Environment Scotland lists admission as free. Confirm before you travel.

Can I go inside?

You can enter the parish church in the choir when no service is on. The nave and tower may be off limits.

How long should I allow?

Around 45 minutes to an hour covers the church, the museum and a stroll by the river.

Is it still a church?

Yes. The choir serves as the Church of Scotland parish church for Dunkeld.