Tourist Guide for Dunfermline in Fife, Scotland
Visitor Attractions, Accommodation and Entertainment in Dunfermline
Sep 3, 2008
Within an easy commute of Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh, is the country’s ancient capital, Dunfermline. Situated in the Kingdom of Fife, Dunfermline is a city steeped in history. It has many tourist attractions, with a wide choice of hotels and guest houses to stay in.
History of Dunfermline
Dunfermline was once the place of choice for Scottish royalty. This is reflected by the fact that 11 kings and queens are buried there. The 12th century Abbey is best known as the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce, although his heart resides in the Scottish Border town of Melrose. Dunfermline remained the capital city of Scotland until 1603.
Throughout the city there are numerous reminders of Dunfermline’s favourite son, Andrew Carnegie. The celebrated industrialist and philanthropist donated several buildings to the city, including the swimming baths, library and Carnegie Hall theatre. His birthplace, a weaver’s cottage, is preserved as a museum. A statue of Carnegie can be seen in Pittencrieff Park, known as, 'The Glen', a large area of parkland he donated to the city.
Tourist Attractions in Dunfermline
The Abbey is open to tourists, as are the impressive ruins of the ancient palace which stand next to it. Near them is the Abbot House Heritage Centre, a 15th century building painted pink. The Glen is open every day and is home to a variety of wildlife, including peacocks and squirrels. An impressive glasshouse is home to a wide variety of tropical plants. There is also a free museum in the grounds.
In the corner of Chalmers Street car park is St Margaret’s Cave. Visitors enter through a small building and descend to an underground stream where the devoted queen went to pray. The cave is open daily and entry is free. St Margaret originally lived in a tower with her husband Malcolm Canmore. The remains of the tower can be seen in The Glen.
Entertainment and Night Life in Dunfermline
The Carnegie Hall regularly hosts large acts, as does the recently refurbished Alhambra theatre. Live music can be found in several smaller venues throughout Dunfermline, including PJ Molloys, The Bruce Tavern and the Corner Music Bar. The city has a rich musical heritage, having produced such talents as Nazareth, Big Country, Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull fame and renowned singer Barbara Dickson.
Dunfermline also has a professional football team. Dunfermline Athletic play their home games at East End Park, a short walk from the city centre. At their height in the sixties they were managed by the legendary Jock Stein and played in the European Cup. Currently, they languish in the less illustrious surroundings of the Scottish First Division.
Hotels and Guest Houses in Dunfermline
Dunfermline has a large selection of accommodation to suit all preferences. There are large hotels such as the City Hotel and the King Malcolm Hotel. There are also numerous guest houses and bed and breakfasts.
Road, Rail and Bus Links to Dunfermline
Due to its central location, Dunfermline is an ideal place to stay while exploring the rest of Scotland. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth and St Andrews are all within one hour's drive. Unlike the larger cities visitors to Dunfermline can enjoy the lack of traffic congestion and the ability to walk everywhere. The city has excellent public transport links. There are frequent trains to and from Edinburgh. There is also a bus station with connections to all the major Scottish cities. By car, Dunfermline is just fiv minutes drive from the M90 motorway.
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