Adventures in Dunfermline, Aberdour, and the East Neuk!

If you want an inexpensive way to see Scotland, join Historic Scotland. A yearly fee of 30 GBP allows you access to most historic sites.

So, we set out on 6th October, passes in hand, with these people:



Photo Credit: http://www.thebrewerclan.com/

The starting point? Dunfermline, the original capitol of Scotland. After a quick stop for caffeine at Costa Coffee,  we made our way to the Dunfermilne Abbey and Palace, just off of the High Street.




If you look closely at the top of the Abbey, "King Robert The Bruce" is subtly written in large block letters. The base of the abbey dates back to 1072. We arrived at the end of a funeral, which set a sombre mood for the interior of the abbey, and an organist continued to play as we explored.

An exterior door to the abbey was the perfect spot for a photo shoot:




The ruined palace is along the backside of the abbey, and it provided the perfect place for John and Sam, the Brewer's two boys, to run and play.


 

Then, we caught another bus to Aberdour, home of  Aberdour Castle and St Fillan's Church, for lunch and more adventures. Ever wondered what Haggis, Nips, and Tatties looks like?



After a brief break in the sun, we walked to Aberdour Castle, stopping for a donut along the way.




Aberdour Castle is said to be the oldest castle in Scotland. It dates back to 1200, and a fire almost destroyed it in 1620. If you look closely, you can see the darkened stone.



Through the window you can see the Dovecot, where Doves and Pigeons would nest during winter months, providing a source of meat.

St Fillan's Church is just behind the castle. St Fillan was the Patron Saint of the mentally ill. From the front cemetary, you can see stunning views of Edinburgh!




Back on the bus, we made 2 stops before arriving in Elie, a coastal town on the East Neuk. In my opinion, Elie has the most beautiful views and beaches of any East Neuk town.



And finally, we boarded yet another bus to Anstruther, for some famous Fish & Chips! All in all, we rode six buses, and made the most of our Fife Day Riders! The sun, friends, ancient ruins, and beaches made it a perfect day out, and we look forward to many more adventures!

*Photo Credit: Jesse Nickel