Bruce's Cave

The cave may have originated as a natural cavity however its enlargement with access via ropes would have provided a secure hiding place for valuables and charters from Dunskellie Castles during border raids or wars. As early as 1408 the name 'Cove' (Scots for cave) was used instead of Dunskellie or Dunskelly as the name of the estate. In 1794 it was regarded as an antiquity but without any reference to the local legend that Robert the Bruce hid from the English soldiers here for several months in 1306, provided with food and drink by his supporter William Irving, Laird of Dunskellie. The expression "If at first you don’t succeed try, try and try again" is said to have come from this…

Bruce's cave is located in a red sandstone cliff above the Kirtle Water on the south side of the water course. Access is via steps cut into the rock and a platform supported by timbers slotted into the cave via square holes cut into the rock. The pathway was built by the local council in 1927 as previously visitors were lowered on a rope over the overhang, from which they would swing into the cave, resulting in many accidents. Bruce's Cave Caravan Park charge a small fee for parking and access to the cave. Tool markings are distinct in a number of areas and the cave is roughly circular with an alcove or aumbry, possibly an altar lies to the right of the entrance. The dimensions are circa 5…