Edinburgh city tourist attractions
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh International Conference Centre
Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Scottish Parliament
Dunfermline
Your guide to what’s on in Dunfermline
When you think of places to visit on your short break in Scotland, Dunfermline may not immediately spring to mind - but you’d be missing out! The ancient capital of Scotland has lots to offer people of all ages with cultural, sports and scenic attractions. Its close proximity, around 20 minutes drive, to Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh as well as the rich, varied landscapes of the Kingdom of Fife making it perfect for exploring further afield. The Superfast Ferry service linking Scotland to the continent is within a few minutes drive of Dunfermline too.
Things to do in and around Dunfermline
A thriving, upbeat city, Dunfermline holds 1000 years of Scottish history within its boundaries. Nowadays the ancient stands shoulder to shoulder with the modern to create a fascinating place for a short break in Scotland. The perfect starting point on any short break in Dunfermline has to Dunfermline Abbey and Palace. The walls of this 11th century monument have housed many Scottish Kings and Queens and are the final resting place of Scotland’s national hero, King Robert the Bruce. Moving on a few centuries you could also visit the former home of one of Dunfermline’s heroes, Andrew Carnegie. His humble weaver’s cottage has been preserved and turned into an interesting exhibition on his life.
The city’s concert hall, Carnegie Hall, bears his name as does its bigger brother in New York! If you fancy an adrenaline filled day then a trip to one of the city’s biggest attractions, Knockhill Racing Circuit, is a must. Venue for races on the British Tour Car Championship circuit, it is the premier place in Fife to experience high speed thrills, customised motor shows, stock car and motor bike racing or even go-karting. For a family day out don’t miss Deep Sea World, home to a 4.5 million litre underwater safari and Europe’s largest collection of sharks! There’s also the Seal Sanctuary, ‘Dinomites’ dinosaur exhibition and if you’re brave enough you could swim with sharks! Pittencrieff Park is a perfect place for a picnic with the family or even just an afternoon stroll. If, after all of these fascinating sights, you’ve still got some time left, Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh, with its famous castle is within 30 minutes drive. Dunfermline thrives during the summer months with a whole host of festivals and events including the Robert the Bruce Festival, Gig in the Glen concert and Tigerfest a showcase of up-and-coming from around Scotland.
Evenings out in Dunfermline
Evenings out in Dunfermline are a bit more laid back than in the modern day capital, Edinburgh. Nonetheless, Dunfermline still offers a good choice of international restaurants, a variety of bars and a handful of nightspots as well as ten pin bowling, multi screen cinemas and the like. The historic Carnegie Hall is a prime venue for an evening out too with many comedy shows, concerts and plays showing throughout the year. For a change of scenery why not hop across the Forth Road Bridge for a night out in Edinburgh’s buzzing city centre.
Shopping in Dunfermline
Shopping in Dunfermline is centred around the High Street and Kingsgate Shopping Centre, where you will find many of the modern outlets you would expect in a small city. With the Kingsgate Centre’s ongoing expansion and the close proximity to the likes of Harvey Nichols and Jenners in Edinburgh, Dunfermline is well placed for a spot of retail therapy.
Fascinating fact
Dunfermline is the birthplace of famous steel magnate and philanthropist, Andrew Carnegie and final resting place of King Robert the Bruce.
