Whether you’re drawn by Fife’s deep-rooted history, its endless outdoor adventures, or its culinary delights, this charming region is ready to welcome you. Just a short drive from Edinburgh, Fife is the perfect short break destination with a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to remote hilltop snugs, there’s something to suit everyone. Come and discover the Kingdom of Fife — where Scotland’s past meets its present, and every visit is sure to leave you feeling inspired.
Step into History
Fife is home to Culross, one of the best-preserved examples of a 17th century Scottish burgh, offering you a step back in time with its cobbled streets and pan-tiled rooftops. Culross is a popular location with film makers and a firm favourite with Outlander fans. Culross Palace is a must-visit with its distinctive ochre-coloured walls and beautiful gardens. Scotland’s newest city and former capital, Dunfermline, is also in Fife where you can visit the stunning 11th-century Dunfermline Abbey. This grand abbey serves as the resting place of many legendary Scottish figures such as Robert the Bruce and offers a peek into the lives of our medieval monarchs. History enthusiasts will also marvel at the Wemyss Caves, home to the largest collection of Pictish carvings in Britain. Finally, no visit to Fife is complete without a stop at Falkland Palace, a favourite retreat of Mary Queen of Scots. It’s also home to the oldest real tennis court in the UK.
Coastal Adventures
Fife is a walker’s paradise with the Fife Coastal Path, a bucket list walking destination stretching 117 miles from Kincardine to Newburgh, it’s Scotland’s longest continuous coastal trail. The Fife Coastal Path encompasses stunning beaches, cliffs, and centuries of history, with panoramic views available every step of the way. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, why not try land yachting along the West Sands Beach in St Andrews or eFoiling beneath the iconic Forth Bridge for a unique experience? Fife is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, from paddleboarding to kayaking in the calm waters of Lochore Meadows which offers a great range of water sports suitable for all ages and abilities, making it the perfect spot for family fun. Wild swimming is also popular in Fife with Elie or Kingsbarns Beach offering a cold dip in their crystal-clear waters. You can then warm up with a rustic seaside sauna experience. There are plenty of tidal pools at Pittenweem, Cellardyke, or St Monans along the East Neuk where beginners can enjoy a gentle introduction to wild swimming.
Family Fun
Fife is the perfect destination for families, packed with award-winning attractions and activities for children and adults of all ages, whatever the weather. When the sun shines, head to Cairnie Mega Maze, the Scottish Deer Centre or Fife Zoo. When the typical Scottish weather looms, Deep Sea World – home to Europe’s largest underwater walkway – is the perfect choice. If you’d like to introduce your children to Scotland’s rich history, a visit to Fife’s many museums are the ideal way to do this. We recommend Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries or the Scottish Fisheries Museum.
Food and Drink Experiences
Whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred dining, fresh seafood straight from the harbour, or comforting pub specials, Fife has it all! The seaside town of Anstruther was once Scotland’s herring capital, and is now world-renowned for its fish and chips, with St Andrew’s is home to a famous gelateria with a history dating back to 1908. For those looking to indulge in Scotland’s finest whisky, Lindores Abbey Distillery, believed to be the oldest distilling site in the country, offers tours and tastings. Don’t forget to try the local fudge doughnut — a treat you won’t forget.
The Home of Golf
For golf enthusiasts, Fife is a pilgrimage destination. The historic Old Course at St Andrews, where the game was born, is just one of over 50 stunning courses scattered across the region. Whether you prefer the dramatic links along the coast or the rolling fairways of inland gems like Ladybank, Fife offers a golfing experience like no other. You can even play golf like they did years ago at Kingarrock Hickory Golf, near Cupar.
When you’re not on the course, take time to explore Fife’s many other attractions — from ancient castles to distilleries and picturesque fishing villages. Visit Welcome to Fife for more inspiration.
At Best of Scotland Holidays, we have over 40 years of experience creating tailor-made holiday itineraries for our clients visiting the United Kingdom and Ireland. We can help you plan your perfect trip to our home region of Fife and incorporate this into your visit to Scotland. Contact us today with your requirements and our expert team will be happy to help you.
