Fife, known as the "Home of Golf," boasts over 50 diverse courses catering to all skill levels. From the iconic Old Course at St Andrews to the scenic fairways of Ladybank, each venue offers a unique experience. Whether you're a seasoned professional, an enthusiastic amateur, or a golf tourist, Fife provides a rich tapestry of golfing opportunities.
The Fife Coastal Path stretches over 183 km from the Forth to Tay estuaries, connecting scenic fishing villages, historic St Andrews, golden beaches, woodlands, nature reserves, and industrial towns like Kirkcaldy. It is easily accessible from any of the fishing villages on the route for a walk/hike on the coast, birdwatching, or a nice run!
The route is also rich in history, with coalyard relics, ruined castles, and ancient carvings in the Wemyss caves.
Can you believe Scotland has it's very own via ferrata, in Fife?
To call it a walk is not strictly accurate; it is more of a scramble, requiring a healthy spirit of adventure, a good measure of agility and a strong head for heights.
The Elie Chainwalk is a thrilling 0.5 km coastal route that takes between one and two hours to complete, offering plenty of time to explore the coves and caves along the way. This adventure is best undertaken at low tide, as the path is submerged during high tide; plan to set out no later than two hours before the tide comes in. Designed for agile explorers with a head for heights, this route is not suitable for very young children, wheelchair users, pushchairs, or dogs, though supervised older children and teens will find it exciting. Wear sturdy, grip-soled shoes, bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, snacks, and consider gloves and a helmet for added safety. While the rock provides good traction, loose gravel can make footing tricky, so take care. Always face the rock when navigating chains and keep the chain between your legs for stability. For added confidence, consider joining a guided group tour.
The May Island, as it is known locally, is a remarkable island which lies 5 miles off the Fife coast and is an important National Nature Reserve owned and run by NatureScot (SNH) and is open for visitors from the beginning of April until the end of September.
Isle of May is home to an incredible array of wildlife, up to 200,000 seabirds can nest on the May, which can include 100,000 Puffins, there are also large colonies of Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Shags (best time for Puffins is from April to end of July ) also about 300 seals live all year round on Isle of May. Porpoise and Dolphin and the odd whale can be seen, you just have to be on the trip on the right day and be a bit lucky.
The May Princess sails from Anstruther for a 4.5 to 5 hour tour in total, which includes 2.5 to 3 hours ashore to explore, and if the weather allows a slow circumference of the Island by the boat to allow visitors to enjoy the spectacular scenery and wonderful wildlife from the sea. On board enjoy the commentary and assistance during the trip from the experienced Skipper and crew, who will try and make your day out a most memorable one. The boat also has a small snack bar and toilets.
Dating back to the 14th century, the castle was saved from ruin in the late 19th century by famous artistic and architect family, the Lorimers. Crow-stepped gables and fairytale stone towers form the outer frame, while indoors elaborate plaster ceilings and painted panelling lie alongside fine furniture designed by Sir Robert Lorimer.
Enjoy delicious fresh produce from the kitchen garden in the tearoom, and enjoy a walk in the beautiful walled garden, or further afield round the picturesque estate.
A totally different take on a beach day, try a relaxing sauna session right on Kingsbarns beach. The beach is a 5 min drive away between Crail and St.Andrews and is backed by low, grassy dunes and one of Scotland’s finest golf courses.
The dunes provide a habitat to a variety of insects and birds with the Fife Coastal Path passing alongside the beach.
The 2-mile stretch of golden sands with interesting rocky outcrops is the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and stunning scenery.
Located near St Andrews, in the scenic East Neuk of Fife, the distillery is set in a restored 18th-century farm steading. Visitors can enjoy whisky tours, tastings, a shop, and a café with outdoor seating. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or simply curious, Kingsbarns offers a fascinating insight into Scotland’s whisky-making heritage.
For gin lovers, a visit to Darnley’s Gin Cottage is a must. Located onsite, it offers an intimate look into the creation of their award-winning gins, complete with gin tastings and experiences.
Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended.
Enjoy a warm cuppa or tasty lunch with an incredible view in this tiny restored classic 17th century building right in Crail.
A historic pub with something for everyone. Head to the Shoregate Hotel in Crail for a nightcap or a mocktail by the fire. This traditional pub is set in the old smokehouse of an 18th century merchant's house. Exposed stone walls, re-purposed pews from a disused chapel near Lanark, stained glass by local artist Keny Drew and a real flame fire offer a warm welcome to all.
Grab a coffee from this little beach shack and take a walk down the most famous beach in St.Andrews. Look back and take in great views of the skyline of St.Andrews...