Fife’s Coastal Towns and Beaches
Date Published: 14 Oct 2020
if you're looking for a coastal break for the whole family, then you should look no further than Fife. The Kingdom of Fife is home to many quaint seaside towns so you really are spoilt for choice if you want that seaside-getaway.
The East Neuk of Fife is very popular with walkers, those with four-legged friends and without, because of its breath-taking views over the Firth of Forth. With many scenic spots and places of interest, Fife is well worth a visit and you'll need more than a day to cover the area.
We’ve done the research and used our local knowledge to pick out our favourite coastal spots, so you can plan a tour of this coastal kingdom to suit you!
Pittenweem
A very charming fishing village, Pittenweem is still abuzz with life from the boats sailing out for the daily catch every morning and boasts markets with fresh, local produce upon their return. The harbour is very much the hub of this village. In the centre of the town, there are some interesting buildings to view dating back to the 12th and 16th centuries. If you’re curious about castles, the East Neuk of Fife is particularly rich in these historic buildings with the North of Pittenweem being host to Balcaskie House and Kellie Castle. The village of Pittenweem also links to a number of coastal walks, allowing you to get that fresh sea air!
St Monans
This idyllic coastal town is lined with charming painted houses and is conveniently placed on the Fife Coastal Path making it the perfect place for those who fancy a stroll. The town is also home to the remains of the once-great Newark Castle. Standing in a dramatic location, overlooking the North Sea, the upper parts of the castle are ruinous but the cellars below remain hidden and intact. Take a dive into history and get some atmospheric photos with the seaside backdrop to the ruin on your visit to this coastal town.
Anstruther
Home of the famous Anstruther Fish Bar and Restaurant, but this harbour town is more than the British classic of fish and chips! This popular town is also home of Scotland's Secret Bunker, just 3 miles North and rife with history about World War II. Anstruther has two settlements, Easter and Wester which are divided by a stream, the Dreel Burn. This bustling town also hosts the Scottish Fisheries Museum, which is situated in one of the historic buildings along the harbour. Learn all about the industry then enjoy your fish supper in the fresh sea air with a view – what a coastal experience! Anstruther Billowness Beach is also a great place for nature lovers and walkers alike with day trips to the Isle of May famous for its Puffins and Grey Seal colony.
Crail
This historic seaside town is lined with cobbled streets and steeped in the history of the Royal Burgh. You can certainly see why Crail is home to one of the UK’s most photographed harbours. During the tourist season (March – October) you can enjoy fresh caught produce at the famous Lobster Hut. Stroll along the harbour with an ice cream and take in the relaxing sea air.
St Andrew's
Known as the home of golf for a reason, St Andrew's is a beautiful historic town with a number of famous golf courses – should you fancy a couple of rounds while you’re visiting Fife. There is more to St Andrews than this globally loved sport though, the town also boasts activities for the whole family to enjoy. Take a trip to St Andrews Cathedral to see the remains of what once was Scotland’s biggest church. Top tip: for some breath-taking views, be sure to climb St Rule’s Tower. While visiting the seaside why not learn all about it by visiting St Andrews Aquarium? The centre holds interactive displays throughout the day which is sure to keep the kids entertained.
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