Dunfermline Abbey and Palace — Attraction in Dunfermline

Originally built in 1128 by David I, a significant number of Scotland's past royalty are buried here (second only to Iona Abbey), including Robert The Bruce.

In the early part of the 19th century, the original chancel and transept was remodeled. During this, it was discovered that Robert the Bruce was buried here. As a result, the tower was designed to commemorate him with the words "KING ROBERT THE BRUCE" carved at the top (which you can see in several of the photos). It's incredibly tacky (and in no way a reflection of the original building). The church is still in use and free to visit, if you're so inclined; the main attraction is a (new) marker for Robert the Bruce's grave. Personally, I'd skip it.

That said, the attached Romanesque nave dates back to the original 12th century structure, including some interesting geometric patterns carved into the front columns (also visible in several of the photos). If you're in town, it's worth stopping by to see this part of the building alone, although I wouldn't go out of my way to visit Dunfermline just for this. (Note: There is a fee for this part of...

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...

Every time I am home in Dunfermline I visit the Abbey, it is one of my favourite places to visit. The history of the place is incredible and its truly a magnificent building. Many school trip memories. However it's a little disappointing that there is no information on the Kings and Queens, Princes and Princesses that are buried in the Old Nave, nobody would be the wiser of all the greats there. (Yes, King Robert the Bruce has his tomb in the new church there and it looks fantastic as always.) There is also a well in the floor that would have at one point been on the outside of the nave where is it said Saint Margaret "appeared" to the congregation again no information on this. The shrine for St Margaret only has her name on the low fence that surrounds it, some additional information would be great. The gentleman who welcomed us into the Nave was very welcoming. For people that come to visit the church, who may not know a lot of the history of the place, more additional information would be fantastic. Really embrace the royalty that is...