The Kingdom of Fife punches well above its weight. St Andrews alone would justify a visit, but add the East Neuk fishing villages, Falkland Palace, Culross, world-class golf and a coastline of harbours and beaches, and you have one of the most rewarding day trips from Edinburgh.
St Andrews
The home of golf, one of Scotland's oldest universities and a town with genuine atmosphere. The Old Course is iconic but St Andrews is more than golf. The cathedral ruins are atmospheric, the harbour is picturesque and West Sands beach (from Chariots of Fire) stretches for miles. The town has a good mix of restaurants, pubs and independent shops. See our St Andrews and Fife day tour.
East Neuk fishing villages
The East Neuk is a string of fishing villages along the south-east coast of Fife, each with its own character. Crail has a tiny harbour and is the most photogenic. Anstruther is the liveliest, home to the famous Anstruther Fish Bar and the Scottish Fisheries Museum. Pittenweem has a working fish market and art festival. Elie has a lovely beach and a more relaxed feel.
Falkland and Culross
Falkland Palace is a beautifully preserved Stuart hunting palace with the oldest real tennis court in Britain. Falkland village itself doubled as 1940s Inverness in Outlander and is worth a wander.
Culross, on the Forth coast, is a remarkably preserved 17th-century village managed by the National Trust. It featured as Cranesmuir in Outlander. The cobbled streets, pantiled roofs and tiny palace make it feel like stepping back in time.
Golf
Beyond the Old Course, Fife has outstanding links golf. Kingsbarns is one of the best modern links courses in Scotland. Dumbarnie is newer and already highly rated. Elie and Lundin Links are excellent and more accessible. See our St Andrews and East Coast golf transfers.
Dunfermline and the Forth bridges
Dunfermline Abbey is the burial place of Robert the Bruce. The town has a good high street and the abbey ruins are impressive. The Forth bridges, visible from South Queensferry, are engineering landmarks: the Victorian rail bridge, the 1960s road bridge and the 2017 Queensferry Crossing together span three centuries of bridge building.
Where to eat
The Anstruther Fish Bar is the classic choice. The Cellar in Anstruther is a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant that is exceptional. The Adamson in St Andrews does good modern Scottish cooking.
Frequently asked questions
How far is St Andrews from Edinburgh?
About an hour and a half by car, crossing the Forth Road Bridge. It is an easy and rewarding day trip.
Can you play the Old Course at St Andrews?
Yes, but access is by ballot or advance booking and demand is very high. We can advise on the process and arrange transport. Other courses in St Andrews are easier to book and excellent in their own right.
Is the Anstruther Fish Bar worth the hype?
It is genuinely good. The fish is fresh, the portions are generous, and eating on the harbour wall is a proper Scottish experience. Arrive early to avoid the queue.
What Outlander locations are in Fife?
Falkland village doubled as 1940s Inverness in Outlander. Culross, just across the Forth, was used as Cranesmuir. Both are well preserved and atmospheric.
