Description

This half day tour from Edinburgh goes to the Fife town of Dunfermline. Once the capital of Scotland it holds some important buildings to Scottish History. The ancient Dunfermline Abbey was originally built by King David I, it is a great example of Romanesque architecture. When rebuilding the choir as a parish church in 1818 an oak cask was found with a body wrapped in a gold cloth and the chest cavity open. This is said to be the tomb of Robert the Bruce.

Opposite the abbey is the Palace which was used by the monks for living quarters and also for important guests and pilgrims. It became home to Queen Anne of Denmark, wife of James VI (I of England) in 1590. The royal family used their wealth to make a grand palace. The future King Charles I was also born here. The Palace now sit in ruins.

The abbey was originally founded by Queen Margaret in 1070 who's shrine also lays here. During her life time she was a very pious woman who for her religious passion became Saint Margaret after her death. Her original place of prayer was at a well which now sits in an underground cave open to the public.

After we go to the childhood home of Andrew Carnegie where we see how a man from humble beginnings became one of the most wealthiest men on earth. The house dates back to 1775 where is father William was a skilled linen handloom weaver. Later the family then moved to Pittsburgh where Andrew gained his wealth from the steal industry. In retirement he became a philanthropist and travelled the world giving his money to good causes. The house has been to restored to see how life was in the 18th century and has an exhibition on Andrew Carnegie's life.

In total the tour will take about 4 hours.

Private Tour to Dunfermline Abbey and Carnegie House from Edinburgh