Dunfermline Palace and Refectory are currently closed, but the abbey nave and shop are open.
Admire one of Scotland’s most impressive medieval interiors and most important royal sites. Dunfermline Abbey and Palace was founded as a priory in about 1080.
Beginning as a priory founded by Malcolm’s wife, Queen Margaret, it was re-established as an abbey by her son in 1128 and is the final resting place of King Robert Bruce, notably minus his heart, along with seven other Scottish kings.
Substantial parts of the abbey buildings remain, including the vast refectory. The foundations of Queen Margaret’s church are under the present superb nave, built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style.
The abbey complex encompasses the ruins of a palace built by King James VI in the 16th century, which became home to his queen, Anna of Denmark. After the couple’s departure for London, royal interest in Dunfermline waned but the ruins of the abbey’s neighbouring palace still make for an interesting discovery. This was the birthplace of Charles I, the last monarch born in Scotland.
The refectory floor, kitchen area and lower floor of the palace together with the upper floor and stone display in the gatehouse are not suitable for visitors using wheelchairs and three steps lead to the shop. All paths in the grounds are accessible. They have a gravel surface and there are flagstones within the abbey.
Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.
Save with an Explorer Pass
An Explorer Pass, valid for 14 consecutive days, is a great way to explore our iconic sites.
Very occasionally the property has to close at short notice due to adverse weather conditions or other reasons out with our control. Please check the Historic Scotland closures page for any unexpected site closures https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/check-for-closures/. You can also follow closure tweets from @welovehistory using #hsclosure. Alternatively please call the site before setting off to check they are open.
