Dunfermline

Friday, midday

It’s worth the short trip to stay a little out of town at Balmule House (doubles from £168, www.balmule.co.uk), a 500-year-old mansion whose walls are awash with art.

1pm

The Wynd Café offers sandwiches and burgers, with a special mention for its mac and cheese spiced with chorizo and ‘nduja.

2pm

Sink into the town’s epic royal and ecclesiastic history at Dunfermline Abbey and Palace. The abbey was founded by David I in the 12th century and the royal connections are manifest – Robert the Bruce’s remains lie interred in the abbey church.

3pm

Don’t rush off without checking out Dunfermline Palace. This striking ruin was a power base of James VI and his ill-fated son, Charles I, was born here in 1600.

7pm

Dhoom is a bright and welcoming recent arrival on the local dining scene. Its well spiced Indian cuisine is popular so book ahead. The venison and sweet potato curry is a nod to more local ingredients.

Saturday, 10am

The world’s first Carnegie library was reborn recently with an extension that houses a museum spread over two floors with exhibition galleries and a Reading Room.

1pm

Stay on at the library to enjoy lunch at the Heaven Scent Café. Homemade soups, specials of the day and an outdoor eating area tempt.

2:30pm

Learn more about the Dunfermline native at the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum. It’s quite a story from weaver’s son to world’s richest man and philanthropist.

4pm

Take a stroll around the town centre, whose historic buildings hold their own amongst the high street shops.

7pm

Grab a taxi down to Limekilns on the Forth waterfront. The characterful old Ship Inn serves a decent pint and hearty pub grub, including ‘gin and tonic battered king prawn supper’.

Sunday, 9am

Stroll in Pittencrieff Park, the town’s favourite green lung, gifted to the town by that man again. ■ Due to Covid-19, check for trading updates. Scotrail run trains to Dunfermline (www.scotrail.co.uk); www.visitscotland.com