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The historic mining community developed in the southwestern part of the county. The county itself lies in the eastern region of Scotland. The earliest inhabitants were people from the Bronze Age as evidenced by the discovery of a cemetery. The objects found amongst the cremated remains contained within the burial urns indicate a civilization having commerce and industry. Documents first mention the area, originally called Beath, in 1178 and indicate the presence of a chapel and possibly a settlement at this time. The community reconstructed the church in 1429, 1640 and again in the 1800s. Coal mining began in the early 1700s. Beath was largely a collection of farms and by 1790, had 100 families in residence.
Four large farms comprised four different districts, which merged to form the Cowdenbeath community. The land laid along a main road to Perth and became an important stopping destination for travellers. In the 1820s, coaching inns emerged and in 1842, Queen Victoria stopped in Cowdenbeath for fresh horses. An iron ore company developed in 1850 and while mining for ore, workers discovered more coal deposits. Soon there were coal shafts at each corner of town. Railway service passing through Cowdenbeath made exporting coal inexpensive. The population rose dramatically, as the mines provided thousands of jobs. By 1872, the coal and iron companies merged.
A mining school develop in 1895, teaching employees all of the aspects of mining. During the world wars, the facility served as a training location for the women who worked in munitions factories. In 1900, the population rose to 3,000 and the outlaying areas boasted nine coalmines with a total of 50 pits. The burgh became the largest mining area in Scotland and in 1910, a Miner’s Association developed, along with a Mine Rescue Station. By 1914, the prosperity and opportunities provided by the mines increased the population to 25,000. Cowdenbeath soon earned the nickname “Chicago of Fife.” The first world war, a flu epidemic and emigration eventually caused a decrease in population.
The mines closed by the 1970s, but the discovery of gas and oil in the North Sea gave rise to a petrochemical company. A local gas pipeline and nearby oil refinery now provide much-needed jobs. Famous former Cowdenbeath residents include Sir James Black, a Nobel Prize winner and the man responsible for developing the well-known medication Ranitidine.
Activities and Attractions
Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Scotland countryside and fresh air by going north of Cowdenbeath to the Lochore Meadows Country Park. Guests find acres upon acres of walking and cycling paths through the meadows and wooded hills. The 260-acre (105 hectare) loch lies in the centre of the park offering a myriad of water activities. Relax on the sandy beach, go swimming or boating. The loch is a great fishing destination, as it harbours both blue and rainbow trout. Venture to the north side of the loch and explore the ruins of the Loch Ore Castle. Constructed in the latter 1300s, many considered the fortress one of the strongest in the country. Four walls with corner towers once protected a central tower house. The park also features a café, golf course and riding stables, along with picnic areas and public facilities.
Travel a few miles southwest and visit an unusual church. The Abbey Church in Dunferline is a combination of a new church and the old church structure conjoined in the middle. Each building has interesting and unique architectural features. Inside guests find elaborate stone and woodcarvings, along with stained glass windows, each created by a different artist. The location is widely recognized for being the burial place of many kings and queens, beginning with Queen Margaret in 1093. The most elaborate tomb belongs to Robert the Bruce. In the pulpit area of the new church, a magnificent golden bronze and stone marker covers the tomb of the king.
Across from the abbey church lie the ruins of an older abbey and palace. Though only remnants remain, the massive structure includes the dormitory, refectory and the kitchens. The old abbey gatehouse features the Historic Scotland Visitor Centre and two museums. Gaze at the amazing stone architecture of the under croft, which bears massive stone cut arches. A narrow staircase provides passage to the nearly complete basement level of the abbey, which lies under the refectory and south portion of the structure. Guests witness even older historical remains at Balbirnie Park in nearby Glenrothes. Here lays a stone circle dated to before 2000 BC. Eight stones form part of a circle measuring over 49 feet (15 metres) in diameter. Near the circle, visitors find two ancient stone burial sites. Stones in the circle and graves contain mysterious animal and cup carvings.
Places to Stay and Dining
Some Cowdenbeath hotels lie in the centre of the community, right across from a spacious park. Enjoy pleasant strolls in the evening. Facilities are also only a few minutes walk from the Leisure Centre and Sports Hall. Guests might indulge in playing a few rounds of golf on the local course.
The Shimla Palace offers traditional Indian cuisine in an informal setting. Enjoy an assortment of meals prepared with chicken, fish, lamb or prawns. Dine on meals prepared with an authentic curry sauce or try patia, a sweet and sour sauce.
Accommodation in Cowdenbeath
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