The Society of Friends was founded by the late Very Revd Nevile Davidson, D.D. in 1936.

During the year the Society of Friends promotes Summer Music Recitals, a Winter Lecture Series and other special events.

The primary objects of the Society are:

• The installation of fine wodern stained glass by distinguished contemporary artists, in all the windows in the Quire, in the two trancepts, the West wall of the Nave, the Blacader Aisle, the Cameronians' Corner and the Millenium Window by John K Clark in the North wall of the Nave.
• Bringing the Blacader Aisle back into use as a place of worship, for the first time since the Reformation. The walls of this beautiful chapel have been limewawshed white, and its magnificent collection of 64 carveed stone bosses on the vaulting have been painted and gilded.
• The provision of a Royal Pew for members of the Royal Family when worshipping in the Cathedral, and the re-shaping, re-varnishing and decorating of the pews in the Quire and the provision of chairs for the Nave.
• The installation of wrought-iron lamps in the Lower Church, making visible many of the splendours of the vaulting and arches.
• The installation of a large ornamental clock of bronze and carved oak above the Great West Door.
• The cleaning, decoration and furnishing of the Chapter House and chapels adjoining, and the furnishing of St Nicholas' Chapel.
• Renovation of the organ.
• The provision of a mobile bookstall and arranging for volunteer guides to welcome visitors to the Cathedral.
• The provision of the St Kentigern Tapestry in the Lower Church from funds from the Robert Love Bequest.