Follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce

Robert the Bruce is one of Scotland’s most fascinating historic characters, his life shrouded in intrigue and mystery. Usually associated with the famous Battle of Bannockburn, surprise yourself in Dumfries and Galloway and travel back 700 years to the place where it all began.

 

The Robert the Bruce Trail takes you on an epic journey around the region where he grew up, how he was influenced by the people and where he forged his skills. The main trail is split into three, with an eastern, central and western section, while there is also a Dumfries Town Trail.

 

At the heart of the story, head to Dumfries where the Central Trail meets the Eastern Trail and visit the site where Bruce murdered John Comyn in 1306, thus leading to his coronation. Following the trail on the east, access the cave in Kirkpatrick Fleming, where legend says that sometime around 1307, after suffering defeat, King Robert went into hiding for three months, and was inspired back into battle by a spider’s relentless effort to spin its web.

 

On the Western Trail, visit the site of one of his first victories in battles at Glentrool marked by a granite boulder upon which Bruce rested following the defeat of an English army. At Whithorn, find St Ninian’s Shrine which marked the end of Bruce’s long pilgrimage just before his death.

 

Following these trails is not only the perfect way to discover Scottish history, but a fantastic way to explore Dumfries & Galloway and see what else this region has to offer, from breathtaking views to delicious produce.