Scone Palace

The present building at Scone dates from 1802 and it was built by William Atkinson. It does incorporate an older dwelling which dates from the late 16th century.  Scone Palace has a strong association with royalty and has a very important part in Scottish History.

The Stone of Destiny is perhaps what makes scone so famous and important in Scottish historical texts, The Stone of Destiny was used in the inauguration of Scottish Kings for many years.  The Stone was taken by Richard I in 1296 during the wars of independence and it was not returned to Scotland till 1996 with it now being held in Edinburgh Castle.

Among the many Kings that were crowned here was Robert the Bruce, whom after slaying the Red Comyn in Dumfries hurried here to be crowned king of Scotland.  This occurred on 25th March 1306 where he was crowned without the Stone of Destiny (having being seized several years earlier) or crown (a plain of gold was used instead) being present, he later went on to become one of Scotland’s most famous Kings.

Today the Palace and ground offer much for visitors to see and do with some stunning architecture and furnishing to admire inside with excellent rooms such as the State Dining Room and the Drawing room which is clad in 19th century Lyons Silk.

The ground are extensive and well maintained offers oak trees that are hundreds of years old and vast lawns where peacocks roam freely.  Also worth a look is Moot Hill which is the former Crowning Place of the Scottish Kings, this is to the front of the palace.