The Real Story

Scottish Borders & Dumfries

Discover the final resting place of Bruce’s heart, as you travel round the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway.

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1 Caerlaverock Castle

Besieged and captured by Edward I in 1300, Caerlaverock Castle remained in English hands until 1312 when the keeper Sir Eustace Maxwell changed his allegiance to Robert the Bruce. He was besieged by the English, but held out. In 1313, with the castle secured, Bruce ordered it to be demolished to prevent the English invaders from using it. You can now explore this unique triangular wide-moated castle.

Find out more and plan your visit to Caerlaverock Castle.

Download our full Robert the Bruce trail

2 Melrose Abbey

Discover a place so beloved by Robert the Bruce, he chose it as the final resting place for his heart. In 1302 Bruce wrote to Melrose Abbey to apologise for attempting to press its tenants into battle against the English. His heart was buried here after being taken on crusade by his loyal ally Sir James Douglas, which was his dying wish.

Find out more and plan your visit to Melrose Abbey.

Download our full Robert the Bruce trail