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Dunfermline is the ancient capital of Scotland and burial place of several Scottish monarchs including Robert the Bruce. The city's name means 'fort on the winding stream', and although only traces of Canmore's tower can be seen today, the stream still winds it's way through Pittencrieff Park.

The city's Abbey is the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce - his tomb lies beneath the altar and is covered by an ornate brass plate. The 12th century nave is run by Historic Scotland and is open to visitors, along with the ruins of the adjoining Royal Palace. The Abbey was built by David I, son of Malcolm Canmore and St Margaret. The remains of the shrine of St Margaret can be seen at the east end of the Abbey.

In the city's Maygate lies Abbot House run by Dunfermline Heritage Trust. On show is a fabulous display that describes the history of the city and it's people. Entirely run by volunteers, Abbot House is an ideal location for starting a tour of Dunfermline. It lies next to the Abbey and only a short walk from many other attractions such as Pittencrieff Park, the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum and St Margaret's Cave. As well as it's main exhibition, Abbot House also features a herb garden, visiting exhibitions and a cafe.

Dunfermline is the birthplace of Andrew Carnegie who emigrated to America as a child in the 1800's. He grew up to be 'the richest man in the world' - the founder of the United States Steel Corporation. Before his death he gave away over 350 million dollars to fund the building of schools and libraries across the USA and in Scotland. To Dunfermline, Carnegie gifted a library, public swimming baths, a theatre and Pittencrieff Park. The beautiful park offers woodland walks, an animal park, children's playpark, formal gardens, winter gardens and a museum. You can also meet the park's resident squirrels and peacocks.

Also to be found in the park is the remains of Malcolm Canmore's tower. Canmore was King of Scotland after Macbeth, and was responsible, along with the saintly Queen Margaret, for bringing Scotland into medieval Europe. Margaret played a major role in founding curches across Scotland, and she also founded the ferry crossings on the river Forth which aided pilgrims on their journey to St Andrews. The cave where Margaret secretly worshipped can still be visited today, even though it lies 50 feet under ground. An access tunnel was made when the area around the cave was built over and turned into a car park.