Dunfermline Abbey and Palace

TL;DR: Dunfermline Abbey and Palace is a stunning historic site with free access to the palace ruins and nave. Worth a visit, even if parts are closed. Dunfermline Abbey and Palace was a fantastic visit, even though the Abbey itself was closed due to concert practice. I was still able to explore the ruins of the old palace and walk through the impressive nave, both of which were breathtaking. The site is rich in history, as Dunfermline was once the capital of Scotland and the burial place of Robert the Bruce. The combination of ancient stonework, towering arches, and peaceful surroundings makes it a truly special place to explore. Best of all, it’s free to access, making it an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone interested in Scottish history!

There is no reason not to visit this place. There are plenty of different things to see and explore. On top of all that, this is all accessible for free. Donations to help fund this project are, of course, always welcome and appreciated.

The castle was so cool! Stopped by the guest house before entering the Abbey and was glad I did. the lady there recommended that I go down into the castle area first. You go down a narrow staircase and then you can explore the ruin. It was neat to see where the monks kept the ale and where the queen would have looked out of her large windows.

A site rich in history—worth a visit if you’re nearby! The main reason I wanted to visit was to see the burial site of the great Scottish king, Robert the Bruce. Unfortunately, the abbey was closed early to prepare for a lecture, so we couldn’t go inside. We didn’t have enough time to return or stay for the 3-hour lecture, but I still recommend visiting if you’re in the area, as the history is fascinating.

The palace is in its ruins. The Abbey is the burial place for King Robert the Bruse and supposed to be the first burial place of St Margaret of Scotland, but later taken to somewhere else. It has some nice stained glass windows. The current church was made some time in the 19th century.

Great ruins and cathedral right in the heart of the city. The architecture is truly stunning. Admission is free (you have to go to the gatehouse to get your free ticket).

Very interesting site to visit where Robert the Bruce rests. Exploring the grounds is a must. Visit the old palace remains. Walking about the old town is interesting too.

This place is absolutely beautiful and historic; feels so enriching to walk through and feel the depth of the history here. We are a Bruce family and so it felt important to visit. Our son loved it as well - peaceful to walk around but he got to run. Interior of the abbey and the history displayed there is wonderful. The burial spot for Robert the Bruce was so detailed and beautiful. This is a must do.

Dunfermline Abbey and Palace is an architectural heaven and she's 1,000 years old. Founded in 1128 by King David I, The site has served various roles throughout the centuries, from a place of worship and royal residence to a burial ground. The Abbey itself is an architectural marvel, featuring intricate Medieval, Romanesque and Gothic designs. The Abbey Church, which is a current place of worship, is home to the tomb of Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland's most celebrated kings. Robert the Bruce successfully led Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence against England. He restored Scotland to an independent kingdom and is regarded in Scotland as a national hero. Wonderful visit.

This Abbey was surely a highlight on our Road Trip through the UK. Firstly the architecture and secondly the history: Robert The Bruce is laid to rest here! Dunfermline's story stretches back to the 11th century - the time of Malcolm III and his queen, Margaret. Their son, David I, raised the status of the little priory to abbey in the 12th century. It started as a priory back in 1070. The Romanesque pillars are surely a sight to behold. The whole abbey is such an impressive masterpiece. The Abbey Nave is managed by the Historic Environment Scotland, while the abbey itself is not in care of the HES and is free to enter. And be sure to enter the abbey: Robert I was interred before the high altar in 1329. His heart was taken on crusade before eventually being buried at Melrose Abbey. If you're interested even the slightest in (scottish) history, then Robert The Bruce's resting place is an absolute must-do. A fantastic visit, we've spent a lot more time than planned. Surely worth it. Highly recommended. And make sure to check out the lovely parklands as well - just across the street.

Wow. I didn't know much about the historic former capital of Scotland. The Abbey and church here are fascinating and well worth a visit. We spent several hours hours here taking pictures and learning some history. The Abbey is really part of the Palace/Abbey experience- and isn't part of the (free) church experience. You pay 5 pound for an adult and 3 pound for a child (15 and under) to tour the ruins. I thought it was well worth it- but if you are disabled, the piecrust steps on the spiral staircases are going to be a real problem for you! Steep! And they might give a problem to the claustrophobic as well. The ruins are dramatic, and you can learn a lot from what's left. I also loved the gift shop. There are some very nice souvenirs to be had here. Make sure you also go in the church- as well as going in the Abbey (which backs up to the church). There was the nicest lady who walked us through the history of the Abbey and church- a lovely volunteer- she told us about the accidental finding of Robert the Bruce (whose skull casting is on display!)- as well as filling us in on Margaret and Malcolm- and their children who ended up being 3 kings of Scotland and one Queen of England! (what a family!) If you like Scottish history, you can't miss this place. See all the parts- they work together in a synergistic way. I wouldn't have missed this for anything. If you don't like Scottish history, and you're not interested in the older kings and queens- you won't enjoy this at all.

An awesome way to finish the day of castle hopping around the Kings of Fife. Leave plenty of time to explore this one, it is epic. When you enter the Palace, you'll go down a narrow set of stairs to get onto the grounds. From there, you can walk the grounds and explore the ruins. There are amazing arches and snippets of Palace history dotted on the grounds which are an interesting read. The Abbey, a short walk across from the Palace, is a truly stunning form. The Romanesque architecture inside is well preserved and the stained glass windows are beautiful. The Abbey church is also the last resting place of many Scottish Kings and Queens. There are grave sites scattered throughout the grounds and the area is surrounded by luscious greenery which I sadly did not have the time to explore. I would totally come back for the chance to explore further and reccomend this destination as a must-see.

Being less than 20 miles drive from Edinburgh I decided to visit Dunfermline one weekend. It's a fascinating and historic town and for me the main attraction is the Abbey. The building itself is beautiful inside and out with lovely stone work and stained glass windows. It also has a long and rich history that's intertwined with many of Scotland's most famous historic figures and royalty. The staff were all friendly and very keen to share their knowledge on the Abbey and it's history. All in all a great place to visit and spend a few hours. I popped back after sunset to take some photos as the gates to the grounds are open all the time. Don / www.edinburghphotowalks.com

A really stunning part of Dunfermline! I love visiting the Abbey and find it very photogenic. The woman that runs the shop is always really friendly and chatty. The location is very central to all Dunfermlines attractions.

Amazing glass windows and romanesque architecture! Firs time I heard about this place was when I was walking along the Main street in South Queensferry. Apparently Queen Margaret crossed the waters to get to a praying place in Dunfermline in the 11th century. King David I of Scotland then build a Benedictine Abbey in the 12th Century on top of an earlier monastic establishment in memory of his mother Queen Margaret who became a Saint in 1250. The abbey is/was connected to Dunfermline Palace, which is now a ruin. When walking along the pathway up to the church entrance on the East side you can feel the power the place once radiated and still does today. I particularly liked the half arches on the side of the abbey. It gave the place a mystic touch. Inside the abbey is split into two. One part is open to the public (tickets required) and the other part is for the church goers. Its the church of Scotland. The windows in that place are mesmerizing. I can imagine that they cost a lot of money whoever sponsored them in previous centuries. If you look closely they are telling a story of the last supper (in the centre) and of Queen Margaret and King Malcolm Canmore. Another thing so amazing (not for all people I gather) is that your are walking on grounds that hold the remains of a few Kings and Queens of Scotland, like Robert de Bruce, Alexander I, Alexander III, David I and of course Saint Margaret and her husband Malcolm. On top of the main tower the name Bruce is clearly visible to any visitor. I will certainly go back and take more time to walk the grounds and the park nearby!

This beautiful and historic abbey is a must if you're in the area - most entry is free, and when it's not, it's not particularly expensive. There are many great views from around the abbey as well. Overall, if you happen to be in Dunfermline and it's a nice day, I would put this at the top of your to-see list!

It's easy to get complacent about history on your own doorstep so I took time out during a recent treasure hunt to have a good look around and I was impressed. A popular venue for weddings and wedding spotters, the Abbey deserve a few hours of anyone's time. A pleasant day out.

i grew up in the shadow of this abbey so i guess i'm biased, but it really is beautiful! ancient and interesting graveyard to wander around and inside, if you can, get through to the main church and have a look at the wonderful carvings, magnificent windows and inlaid plaques on the floor. just across the road is the ruin of Dunfermline palace, where Robert the Bruce,Queen Margaret and King Malcolm once lived. The massive park ajoining was gifted from Andrew Carnegie to the people of dunfermline, locally known as 'the glen' its a day out in itself (that review to follow). Take a trip and walk around, the town isn't much to look at but the historic side is very picturesque.