Introduction to Dunfermline

23km (14 miles) NW of Edinburgh, 63km (39 miles) NE of Glasgow, 84km (52 miles) SW of Dundee

The ancient town of Dunfermline was once the capital of Scotland and is easily reached by the Forth Road Bridge, opened by Elizabeth II in 1964. Scots called their former capital the "auld grey town," and it looms large in their history books. The city is still known for its Dunfermline Abbey and former royal palace (now largely gone). When Scotland reunited with England in 1603, the royal court departed to London, leaving Dunfermline to wither with only its memories. The town, however, recovered when it become the center of Scottish linen making, specializing in damask. But by World War I, the market had largely disappeared.

Some of the most interesting sights in Fife are within easy reach of Dunfermline, including the beautiful village of Culross. Dunfermline also makes the best base for exploring Loch Leven and Loch Leven Castle.