Welcome to Dunfermline, the former capital of Scotland. This town in Fife has a long historical past which is evident in its many ancient buildings and architectural landscapes that were built during the 12th century. History buffs will surely enjoy their time here as they explore the many treasures that Dunfermline offers. Travel back in time and visit different heritage buildings such as the Royal Palace, Abbot House, and St Margaret’s Cave. There is also a wide variety of restaurants and hotels that offers good food and accommodations. Tourists flock here to take advantage of the moderate climate, as the town experiences cool summers and warm winters. With so much to see and do in Dunfermline, it is a good option for a quick getaway. Here is a list of things to do in Dunfermline, UK. Take a look and plan your itinerary carefully.
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1. Visit the famous Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
Explore artifacts and large posters describing Carnegie’s achievements at the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum. Marvel at his legacy and learn about his life and achievements. Andrew Carnegie was a world-famous philanthropist who used his wealth and resources to improve and uplift society.
Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
Address: Moodie St, Dunfermline KY12 7PL, UK
Website: Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 4pm
Price: Free
2. Relax amidst the greenery of Pittencrieff Park
Stroll amidst the lush greenery of Pittencrieff Park. Breathe in the refreshing air and relax as you observe the rejuvenating atmosphere of the park. Visitors can enjoy a romantic lunch here as there are excellent facilities. It is also a great venue for picnics with family and friends. Pittencrieff Park is a must-visit for travelers with young children.
Pittencrieff Park
Address: 53 Tern Road, Dunfermline KY12 8QH, UK
Website: Pittencrieff Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Explore Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
Discover the birthplace of Charles I and burial place of Robert the Bruce at Dunfermline Abbey and Palace. Come and explore the stunning historical grounds of the abbey and palace. The architecture is distinctively Romanesque and has been carefully and lovingly preserved. Admire the nave, the monk’s refectory and panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. Moreover, this palace holds a thousand interesting stories. There’s so much to see in Dunfermline Abbey and Palace, so hurry and book one of many tours offered.
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
Address: St Margaret’s Street, Dunfermline KY12 7PE, UK
Website: Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 1.28 - 7.66 USD
4. Check out some outstanding performances at the Alhambra Theatre
The Alhambra Theatre is located at the junction of Canmore Street and New Row. It opened in 1922 and has been in business since then. Though it faced a long troublesome history, even facing closure at one point of time, the theatre has survived to play host to many operas, ballet performances, and children’s shows. It boasts of an impressive line up of events and you can visit their website to check out the details.
Alhambra Theatre
Address: 33-35 Canmore St, Dunfermline KY12 7NX
Website: Alhambra Theatre
5. Say a prayer at St Margaret's Cave
St Margaret’s Cave has been a place of pilgrimage in Dunfermline for many years now. This holy cave can be found deep in the ground and visitors have to descend many steps to reach it. The legend goes that Queen Margaret would pray at this site. The cave is open from April to September and group tours can be booked to visit it.
St Margaret's Cave
Address: Glen Bridge Car Park, 8DF, Chalmers St, Dunfermline, United Kingdom
Website: St Margaret’s Cave
Opening hours: 11am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
6. Go fishing at Balmule Fishery
Go fishing on the outskirts of Dunfermline at Balmule Fishery. It is a fantastic fishery and you will enjoy a day full of excitement and fun! Enjoy it with your friends and your family. This is a good place for a unique family bonding experience on a good sunny day for a very reasonable price.
Balmule Fishery
Address: Valley of Balmule, Dunfermline KY12 0RZ, United Kingdom
Website: Balmule Fishery
Opening hours: 7am - 10:30pm (daily)
Price: 13.40 - 34.44 USD
7. Visit the Carnegie Library & Galleries
Witness exhibitions, family activities, seminars and workshops for adults at the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries. A wonderful experience awaits you here. Enjoy with your whole family as you browse through the galleries, visit the Reading Room, the children’s library. Rest your tired limbs at their in-house cafe. You can also buy a souvenir at their gallery shop.
Carnegie Library & Galleries
Address: 1 Abbot St, Dunfermline KY12 7NL, UK
Website: Carnegie Library & Galleries
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 7pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm
Price: Free
8. Enjoy fun times at Adventure Golf Island
Spend some quality family time at Adventure Golf Island. Great fun activities await you amidst waterfalls, fountains and even a pirate ship. There is a mini indoor golf course where you can long hours perfecting your game. The prices are reasonable and the kids will have a great time. Adventure Island even organizes special events like treasure hunts during the summer holidays. Refreshments are available on site.
Adventure Golf Island
Address: Fife Leisure Park, Whimbrel Pl, Dunfermline KY11 8EX, UK
Website: Adventure Golf Island
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10:30am - 10pm
Price: 10.20 - 30.61 USD
9. Visit the Knockhill Racing Circuit
Get your adrenaline fix by watching motorcar racing at the Knockhill Racing Circuit. The circuit holds a large number of racing events like the Bennetts British Superbikes, Kwik Fit British Touring Cars, racing cars and rallies. You can even book a go-karting activity. They even have a go-karting track for kids and you can book them for special events. There’s so much to see and do in this racing circuit, so hurry and get yourself ready for a thrilling adventure!
Knockhill Racing Circuit
Address: Dunfermline, Fife KY12 9TF, United Kingdom
Website: Knockhill Racing Circuit
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 44.64 - 196.41 USD
10. Pay your respects at Dunfermline War Memorial
Dunfermline War Memorial
Posted by Dunfermline we love this city on Thursday, 4 April 2019
Remember the victims of World War I at the Dunfermline War Memorial. The memorial is built in a peaceful location in Abbey Gardens, near the Dunfermline Palace and Abbey. It is a beautiful place surrounded by lush greenery. The garden is well maintained and often visited by locals and tourists. Visit the Dunfermline War Memorial and a spend a quiet moment in reflection.
Dunfermline War Memorial
Address: Abbey Gardens St Margaret’s Street Dunfermline Scotland
Website: Dunfermline War Memorial
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
11. Admire the gothic architecture of Dunfermline City Chambers
The Dunfermline City Chambers houses the administrative offices of the Fife Council. The Chambers were built in the 19th century and it has been renovated recently. Visit it and admire its stunning gothic architecture and the unique clock tower. The building is also home to many famous artworks by renowned painters of that era. The most prominent of them is the portrait of King Malcolm and Queen Margaret.
Dunfermline City Chambers
Address: 6 Kirkgate, Dunfermline KY12 7NB, UK
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 5pm; Wed: 10am - 5pm; Thu - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat and Sun)
12. Plan a visit to the historical Lathalmond Railway Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Get a glimpse of Scotland’s military past at the Lathalmond Railway Museum. Learn fascinating facts about Scotland’s military history and the important role the railways played in it. The heritage railway has restored a small portion of the tracks and it is open to the public. The museum showcases many railway memorabilia and many events are held here. Check out their website for more information regarding the Lathalmond Railway Museum.
Lathalmond Railway Museum
Address: Shed47 Railway Restoration Group at SVBM, M90 Commerce Park, Lathalmond, Dunfermline KY12 0SJ, United Kingdom
Website: Lathalmond Railway Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon - Sat)
Price: Free
13. Explore the Harbours of Limekilns
Explore the beautiful promenade and breathtaking views of the sea from the harbors of Limekilns. A worthy place to visit with your significant other. The harbor has great viewing spots to catch that stunning sunset or go for long walks. Sit on the benches and watch the world go by at this peaceful spot.
Harbours of Limekilns
Address: The Promenade, Limekilns, Dunfermline, Scotland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Win some strikes at Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl is a fun place to spend the evening with family and friends. The modern bowling alleys, brightly lit lanes, and a great atmosphere is sure to keep you entertained. Besides, bowling visitors can enjoy arcade games here. The bowling alley also provides dining options and serves a long list of American classics. They even have a kid’s menu. So, visit the Hollywood Bowl and have a great time.
Hollywood Bowl
Address: Fife Leisure Park, Leisure 2, 16 Whimbrel Pl, Dunfermline KY11 8EX, United Kingdom
Website: Hollywood Bowl
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 10 pm; Sat; 11am - 12pm
15. Watch a concert at Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall was established in the year 1937 to cater to the artistic needs of the citizens of Dunfermline. It was named after Andrew Carnegie, a great industrialist and businessman who had his roots in Dunfermline. Carnegie Hall holds a number of shows and events all year round. Get a chance to see wonderful performances by the musicians and enjoy a whole new concert experience only at Carnegie Hall.
Carnegie Hall
Address: East Port, Dunfermline KY12 7JA, UK
Website: Carnegie Hall
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
16. Cheer for your team at East End Park
Watch a football match at East End Park. Enjoy the loud cheers and shouts of encouragement as the Scotts support their favorite teams. The football stadium can hold over 11,000 spectators. This state-of-the-art stadium has four stands, the East Stand, the Main Stand, the North Stand, and the Norrie McCathie Stand.
East End Park
Address: East End Park, Halbeath Rd, Dunfermline KY12 7RB, UK
Website: East End Park
Price: 28.06 USD
17. Enjoy exotic fare at Apricot Indian and Nepalese Restaurant
Enjoy and savor authentic Indian food at the Apricot Indian and Nepalese Restaurant. They use fresh ingredients and special spice mixes to create fabulous dishes. Their chefs are trained and experienced and present traditional Indian and Nepalese dishes. Visit on Sunday to try their grand buffet. What’s more, kids below 5 years eat for free. The restaurant offers catering services and the spacious venue can also host birthday parties, corporate events and such.
Apricot Indian and Nepalese Restaurant
Address: 29-31 Carnegie Dr, Dunfermline KY12 7AN, UK
Website: Apricot Indian and Nepalese Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 1pm - 10pm
18. Listen to great music at Monty's Bar
Monty’s Bar is a popular hang out in Dunfermline. It is a great place to enjoy a night out with friends. Listen to great music while sipping on cocktails or order some pub grub at the bar. Relax in the warm and cozy ambiance of the bar and share stories with the locals.
Monty's Bar
Address: 9 Guildhall St, Dunfermline KY12 7NR, UK
Website: Monty’s Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11am - 12am; Wed - Thu: 11am - 1am; Fri - Sat: 11am - 2am; Sun: 11am - 1am
19. Tour the famous Pittencrieff House Museum
Tour the Pittencrieff House Museum and gain an insight into the history of Dunfermline. The museum holds the ‘Magic of the Glen’ exhibit on its premises. Be sure to take a look. Stroll on the grounds of Pittencrieff Park, which draws nearly 750,000 people every year. The Glen Pavilion, located on the grounds of the Pittencrieff Park is an exquisite building. It can also be hired out for weddings and corporate events. If you are tired, take a short break at the Peacock Rooms Cafe. They serve an array of snacks throughout the day.
Pittencrieff House Museum
Address: Dunfermline KY12 8QH, United Kingdom
Website: Pittencrieff House Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Discover the hidden gems of Dunfermline
Dunfermline, United Kingdom has a lot of things to offer - from historic places to modern restaurants serving contemporary dishes. Check out our list of things to do here and discover the hidden gems of the city.
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