Dunfermline

Dunfermline is Scotland's newest city – just a short trip north of Edinburgh across the iconic Forth Bridge. Once a royal capital, its ancient stones whisper tales of monarchs, monks, and times gone by. Today, Dunfermline is a place of culture and creativity.

Great things to do in Dunfermline

Once a royal capital, Dunfermline has plenty to offer from its history and culture to beautiful outdoor spaces.

Top 7 things to do in Dunfermline

Head to Scotland's newest city and check out all the cool things to do in Dunfermline.

History and heritage

Dunfermline has one of the finest surviving medieval townscapes in Scotland and is home to a fascinating must-visit Heritage Quarter.

6 Interesting facts about Dunfermline

Discover more about Scotland's newest city, named during HM The Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Outdoor adventures

Find beautiful public parks, an award-winning beach, woodland walks and long-distance footpaths, plus wakeboarding, rally driving and sailing.

Entertainment and culture

Dunfermline and West Fife are increasingly known for their vibrant, year-round entertainment scene, museums and galleries.

Learn about Andrew Carnegie

Find out about one of the most famous Scots of the 19th century. You can visit places connected to him right across his hometown.

Top days out ideas

Travel around Dunfermline and beyond, exploring what the fabulous east coast of Scotland has to offer.

The Forth Bridge World Heritage Site

Recognised for its innovative design and technology all over the world, the Forth Bridge is an impressive feat in engineering.

Dunfermline Abbey

One of Dunfermline's best buildings and the resting place of Robert the Bruce.

Abbot House

16th century Abbot House is instantly recognisable by its colour and is known fondly as the ‘pink hoose’ by locals.

Pittencrieff Park

Pittencrieff Park is west of Dunfermline city centre. Cyclists are welcome to use the paths and trails throughout the park.

Dunfermline self-guided walking tours

Go walkabout in Dunfermline and explore this historic area.

Inspiring routes, trails & itineraries

Dunfermline is a great place to base yourself on a dedicated walking or cycling holiday.

The Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing

Follow a route

Fife is a favourite walking destination for a reason! With amazing coastal paths and historic towns, this is a walker's paradise.

See what's on in Dunfermline

From live music and dance to art exhibitions and family shows, there are some great events and lively venues in Dunfermline.

Pittencrieff Park
© Fife Council / Damian Shields

Dunfermline City Artisan Market, various dates – this monthly market features a grand selection of traders and stalls selling delicious food, drink, arts and crafts and more.

Outwith Festival, 2 - 6 September 2026 - head to Dunfermline for five days packed full of cutting edge arts, theatre, film, writing and music performances.

Rewind Classic Festival, 5 - 6 September 2026 – this year’s celebration will see a showcase of unique machines from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, as well as bringing together riders from across five decades onto the circuit for a truly exhilarating festival.

Unearthed at Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries, until 6 September 2026 – head off on an adventure through time, from the era of the dinosaurs to Viking times and the post-Medieval period through to more recent times – there’s something for all ages to enjoy.

Live-Action & Fireworks Spectacular, 7 November 2026 – celebrate Bonfire Night in style at Knockhill Racing Circuit with a dazzling display of fireworks, live track entertainment and jaw-dropping views.

The Dunfermline Bruce Festival, 2027 dates TBC (usually last weekend in May) – enjoy this free, family‑friendly event which celebrates the life and times of Robert the Bruce with medieval battles, food stalls and more.

Inverkeithing Highland Games, 7 August 2027 – mark your calendars as one of Fife’s longest-running events returns to Ballast Bank with caber tossing, pipe bands and family-friendly entertainment.

Map of Dunfermline

Javascript is needed to show this map.

Garvock House Hotel afternoon tea
© Garvock House Hotel

Places to stay in Dunfermline

Stay in a B&B and make friends with the host, or relax in a luxury hotel. See what unusual accommodation Dunfermline has to offer, or book a self-catering break for you and the family.

Dhoom
© Welcome to Fife / Luigi Di Pasquale

Places to eat in Dunfermline

We've looked out the best restaurant info for you to help you plan your trip. Check out these ideas for places to eat in Dunfermline.

Browse food & drink options

Find information on accessible trips

Whether you’re travelling with kids, need a mobility scooter or you’re a wheelchair user, Dunfermline has plenty of accessible options.

Explore nearby

Why not explore the wider area? From vibrant Dundee & Angus to the charming coastlines of Fife, and the cultural buzz of Edinburgh & The Lothians. There’s so much to discover around Dunfermline.

Other things you might like

Join our Newsletter Clan

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

Get the Scotland newsletter