15 Amazing Villages and Towns in Fife, Scotland

Fife is more easterly meaning there is a lot of sunshine and gorgeous rolling hills.  This post is a guide to the amazing villages and towns in Fife, Scotland.

Fife is one of the most unique and charming regions in Scotland. There are so many settlements in Fife to explore.

The most unique settlements are Falkland, Culross, St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife. You will get the best sights of the east coast of Scotland, spectacular views across Isle of May and the Forth Bridges across the Firth of Forth.

There are so many things to do in Fife. You will have the opportunity to be fully immersed in history and culture.

Also, there is a wide range of eating places that serve dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Moreover, there is great hill walking opportunities in the Lomond Hills, bays for water sports and long-distance walking paths.

Falkland 

Step back in time to the beautiful village of Falkland. Falkland is Scotland’s first conservation village, which is nestled at the bottom of the Lomond Hills.

A spectacular restored renaissance palace which was beloved by Mary Queen of Scots is located in the centre of Falkland.

Falkland has a range of traditional pubs, cosy tearooms and quirky shops. Outlander fans will recognise the centre of the village, which played the part of Inverness in the hit TV series. 

Falkland Palace is an impressive example of 16th-century Gothic architecture. Inside the castle walls, you can explore the dramatic furnishings and detailed tapestries.

There is an unexpected chapel situated in the palace itself. Also, you can explore the royal gardens, tennis courts that date back to 1539, a living willow labyrinth and a giant chess board.

The Lomond Hills are lovely mounds in the centre of Fife that offer the best views in central Scotland.

There are many walking paths through the hills which display some small waterfalls and famous land formations such as the Bunnet Stane, Maspie Den and John Knox’s Pulpit.

Maspie Den is a wonderful waterfall walk for people coming from Fife and Dundee.

Falkland Accommodation: The Hayloft, The Ruin at Maspie House & Coachman’s Cottage

Things to do in Falkland

• Falkland Palace and Gardens
• Maspie Den
• Lomond Hills

Cupar

Cupar is located in central Fife, surrounded by gentle hills near the River Eden. Long ago, Cupar was a market town and lots of the mediaeval character has been maintained until the present day.

A few historic buildings located in Cupar are the 17th-century Preston Lodge, Chancellor’s House, the Corn Exchange, the Old Parish Church and Mercat Cross which dates back from 1683. 

Also, make sure to visit an Edwardian mansion 2 miles south of the town that was remodelled by Sir Robert Lorimer- the Hill of Tarvit. The National Trust of Scotland has owned the state since 1949.

Inside the house, there is an impressive collection of 18th-century Chippendale and French furniture, Dutch paintings, Chinese porcelain and a restored Edwardian laundry.

Cupar Accommodation: Meadowside B&B, Cherry Blossom Cottage

Things to do in Cupar

• Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze
• Hill of Tarvit
• Scottish Deer Centre
• Crawford Priory

St Andrews

Moving onto the east coast of Scotland is the lovely charming town of St Andrews. St Andrews has so much culture with its old majestic buildings.

The town is best known for its golf links, stunning coastline and the excellent St Andrews University which was established in 1413. 

One of the most visited sites is the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral. The ruins were built in 1158 and was once a grand cathedral.

St Andrews has three beaches, West Sands Beach runs parallel to the Old Course and is part of the opening scene in the 1981 Chariots of Fire. 

Also, there are lots of bars and restaurants which serve delicious food which is locally sourced. Jannetta’s Galleria has served tasty ice cream for over a century.

You can try their unique Scottish flavours such as Irn Bru gelato or Scottish Tablet flavour or just keep it traditional.

St Andrews Accommodation: Orchard Cottage, Kinness Cottage & Kilrymont View

Things to do in St Andrews

• St Andrews Castle
• St Andrews Abbey
• West Sands
• Old Course
• Craigtoun Country Park
• British Golf Museum 

Dunfermline 

Dunfermline is a historical settlement in Fife, recently it was made a city in May 2022 as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The city is home to spectacular historic buildings, abbeys, stately homes and castles. Many important landmarks include Dunfermline Palace & Abbey and Pittencrieff Park. 

Also, Dunfermline offers culture with its main attraction being Carnegie Hall. At this venue, you can find regular local shows and performances in a gorgeous art deco setting.

Moreover, there are some great local cafes and restaurants which serve delicious Scottish food and drink.

Dunfermline Accommodation: Pitcorthie House, Pinewood Cabin & St Margarets Loft Apartment

Things to do in Dunfermline

• Pittencrieff Park
• Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
• Pittencrieff Park
• Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum 
• Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries

Culross

Culross (pronounced coo-riss) is known as one of Scotland’s most picturesque villages. Since 1971 the National Trust for Scotland has kept Culross as a conservation village.

The steep cobbled causeways, with their white-walled, red-roofed, step-gabled buildings make you feel like you have to be transformed back into the 17th century. 

Culross Palace is a bright mustard-coloured building which stands alongside other pastel-painted houses. Facing the town square is a tollbooth and clock tower, it is a unique Scottish castle on the east coast of Scotland.

The harled cottages may be known from the hit TV Outlander. You can walk uphill to the hilltop abbey to get amazing views across the Firth of Forth.

A starting point of Fife Pilgrim Way, Culross has been a religious site since the 6th century.

Culross Accommodation: The Dundonald Guesthouse, Cunninghame House & Forget Me Not Cottage

Things to do in Culross

• Culross Palace
• Devilla Forest 
• Kinneil House
• Fife Pilgrim Way
• Dunimarle Castle

Crail 

On the East Neuk of Fife coast, you will find a gorgeous historic fishing village. The village has a miniature harbour which is backed by charming cobbled streets.

The eye-catching waterfront is one of the most photographed waterfronts in the UK with creel boats, sailing boats and lobster pots. 

There is so much to explore including the heritage centres, galleries and local shops. In the summer, the Crail Food Festival is a treat for the senses.

Also, there are lovely independent businesses including restaurants, cafes, tearooms, an artisan baker, family-run butchers and an independent grocer.

Crail is only 10 miles south of St Andrews and is located along the Fife Coastal Path. The small pretty village is a perfect haven to have a wee stroll.

Crail Accommodation: Neuk Hoose, The Old Vinery & Kirkmay Cottage

Things to do in Crail 

• Crail Harbour
• Crail Museum & Heritage Centre
• Dunino Den

Anstruther

Anstruther is a historic fishing village perched on the coastline of the Firth of Forth. It is situated in the East Neuk of Fife alongside Crail and Pittenweem.

Anstruther has a string of pretty old-fashioned fishing villages along the stretch of the Fife coast. The village was designated a Conservations Area in 1977. 

Anstruther Fish Bar is a top attraction which serves top-quality fish supper. The fish bar has won a number of awards including ‘UK Fish and Chip Shop of the Year’.

The fish is locally sourced and is usually caught by one of the fishing boats in the harbour. 

From the Anstruther Harbour, you can head out on a boat trip to the Isle of May. On the island, you can look out for puffins, seals and other wildlife. Boat trips run from May through to September.

Also, Scottish Fisheries Museum is a popular attraction.

Anstruther Accommodations: B&B at 37, Rumpys & Invermay

Things to do in Anstruther

• Anstruther Fish Bar
• Scottish Fisheries Museum 
• Isle of May
• Scotland’s Secret Bunker

Pittenweem 

Pittenweem is not too far from Anstruther. The fishing harbour is the main attraction and is where the boat returns with its catch and sells at the local fish market.

Similar to other East Neuk villages the buildings with red pantile or grey-slate roofs surround the harbour. There is a lively atmosphere every year at the Pittenweem Art Festival which takes place every summer.

You can view the creativity of the town with local galleries showcasing the work of local makers, designers and artists. People open up their homes, garages and galleries to showcase their best artwork. 

Kelly Lodge is a late 16th-century townhouse that once was the home to the Earls of Kellie. The parish church dates from the same period and the attached ruins of the 12th century Augustinian priory.

Also, you can visit St Fillan’s Cave which is located on the cliff face beneath the priory. There are many great restaurants and cafes in Pittenweem.

Some great places to add to your list of places to go include The Dory Bistro, Pittenweem Fish and Chip Bar, Pittenweem Ice Cream Shop, Pittenweem Chocolate Company’s Cocoa Tree Cafe and St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company.

Pittenweem Accommodation: Mangle Cottage, Hedderwick House & Anchor Cottage

Things to do in Pittenweem

• St Fillan’s Cave
• Kellie Lodge
• Pittenweem Tidal Pool

St Monans

Another village in the East Neuk corner of Fife includes St Monans. St Monans is the smallest East Neuk fishing port. The town features attractive 17th and 18th-century pantiled houses with painted walls and red roofs along the stretch of the harbour. 

The main industries here are fishing and salt production. You can view a reconstructed stone windmill that was used to pump seawater up the old saltpans.

Also, you can view a 14th-century church which was built along the foreshore. David II built the church in gratitude for surviving a shipwreck nearby. 

St Monans is also part of the Fife Coastal Path. You can walk from Elie to Pittemweem and gain an insight into the history, heritage and unique charm of this pretty village.

Things to do in St Monan’s

• St Monan’s Welly Boot Garden 
• St Monan’s Windmill
• Newark Castle 
• St Monans Church of Scotland “Auld Kirk”

Elie & Earlsferry

Elie and Earlsferry were established in the 16th century and are picturesque seaside resorts which are popular holiday hotspots. These charming villages are located on sheltered Ruby Bay.

The bay is perfect for picnics, paddling and open-water swimming. Also, it is an excellent water sport such as kayaking and sailing. 

This is one of my favourite beaches to visit on the east coast of Scotland.

The harbour is popular with yachts and small pleasure craft while the surrounding bay is popular with windsurfers and bathers. Elie is a great place for getting a bite to eat.

Try the rustic stylish Harbour Cafe which serves locally caught seafood. Also, you can visit the Elie Deli and Ardross Farm Shop which serves a range of fresh, local produce.

Moreover, the small town has two great golf courses.

James Braid is a five times winner of the British Open Golf Championships in the early 20th century and was born in Elie. Also, Braid is a celebrated golf course designer.

The Lady’s Tower is one of Elies many interesting historic buildings. The tower was built in 1770 for Lady Janet Anstruther as a summer house.

Elie Accommodation: Elmbank, Kenmore House & Ruddon Grange

Things to do in Elie & Earlsferry

• Elie Ness Lighthouse
• Elie Beach 
• Ruby Bay 
• Lady’s Tower
• Elie’s Chain Walk

Leven 

West and along the coast of Elie and Earlsferry is the small seaside town of Leven.

Leven has easy travel connections to Kirkcaldy and Glenrothes, also, it is close to the East Neuk of Fife. There is a pleasant promenade and beach which makes it a popular holiday destination. 

Silverburn Park and the woodland valley of Letham Glen are perfect green space for relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors. Leven has golf courses, and an indoor swimming pool and the Fife Heritage Railway has regular open days.

Also, there is an art deco cinema which shows the latest movies. Moreover, there is a good variety of shops and eating places.

Leven Accommodation: Wellesley Apartment, Buckthorns House & Lomond Guest House

Things to do in Leven

• Leven Beach

North Queensferry

On the northern side of the Firth of Forth, you can find the picturesque town of North Queensferry.

North Queensferry is on the southern end of the popular Fife Coastal Path which is one of Scotland’s greatest long-distance walking trails. 

The pier on North Queensferry is home to Queensferry Light Tower, of the smallest lighthouses in the world that is still in use. At the pier, you can get more information on the construction of the Forth Rail Bridge and the tiny tower.

Until the opening of the Forth Road Bridge in 1964, the pier was the main port for ferries crossing the Forth.

Queensferry Accommodation: St James Bay House, Three Bridges Waterfront

Things to do in North Queensferry

• Deep Sea World
• North Queensferry Harbour Light Tower
• Rail Forth Bridge

Limekilns 

In west Fife, west of the port of Rosyth, you will find the town of Limekilns. The oldest building in Limekilns is the King’s Cellar, which dates back to the early to mid-16th century.

It is apparently where Scotland’s sovereigns kept their wine. This town has been involved in the limestone, shipbuilding, soap making and brewing industries.

A row of traditional fishermen’s cottages lines the tranquil waterfront where small boats rest on Bruce Haven in Limekiln’s Harbour. If you are looking for a bite to eat, there is a good selection of independent pubs and restaurants.

Things to do in Limekilns

• The harbour of Limekilns

Ceres

Located near Cupar, you will find a spectacular ancient village in a small glen. Ceres‘ main attraction is the Fife Folk Museum, which is located in several small villages since the 17th century.

The museum displays historical farming and agricultural equipment. 

Moreover, at the village crossroads, there is a stone carving of a man in a three-cornered hat with a toothy grin and a beer glass on his knee. It is said to be a depiction of a former provost.

Ceres Accommodation: Dyke End Cottage, Mill Pond View

Things to do in Ceres

• Fife Folk Museum 

Kirkcaldy

Kirkcaldy is a lovely town in Fife located on the coast. Since the Bronze Age, Kirkcaldy has been a settlement and the town has a rich history of industry and trade.

More specifically, the town has played an important role in the salt production, mining and cloth-making industries.

The town is home to Europe’s longest street fair, which offers stalls, rides and attractions every Easter.

Shoppers will love the Kirkcaldy Farmers Market and art lovers will love Kirkcaldy Galleries. Also, Kirkcaldy is located on the Fife Coastal Path and it is near walking and biking trails.

Kirkcaldy Accommodation: Victorias Haven, Little Gem

Things to do in Kirkcaldy 

• Ravenscraig Castle
• Kirkcaldy Galleries

What is the oldest town in Fife?

The historic town of St Andrews is located on the north east coast of Fife. The town is well known for the University of St Andrews.

The university was established in 1413 and is on the oldest universities in the world. St Andrews has winding alleyways and many medieval buildings. 

What towns are in West Fife?

Culross is located in the west of Fife. Also, North Queensferry, Dunfermline and Limekilns are towns that are located in the west coast of Fife.

Dunfermline is the largest settlement in west Fife and is now classed as a city.

What towns are in East Fife?

St Andrews is the biggest and oldest town in East Fife. Other villages and towns along the east coast of Fife are Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans, Leven, Elie and Earlsferry.

In land, some popular towns include Cupar, Ceres and Falkland.

Final Note

The Kingdom of Fife is a beautiful part of Scotland with a range of spectacular villages. Crail, Pittenweem, Anstruther, St Monans, Elie and Earlsferry are stunning seaside villages collectively known as the East Neuk of Fife.

Also, on the east coast of Fife is the ancient town of St Andrews. St Andrews is the ‘home of golf’, and the home of St Andrews University. Towards the west of Fife, you can visit the picturesque village of Culross, which is well known for being a location on the TV series Outlander.

Also, Dunfermline is the biggest settlement in Fife and has recently been recognised as a city. Dunfermline is full of history and has some gorgeous medieval buildings. 

The Fife Coastal Path connects all the best coastal towns in Fife. Also, the Fife Pilgrim Way is another long walking route which is very for hikers.

For a magical break, make sure you head to Falkland which is home to Falkland Palace and is a good place to base yourself for exploring the Lomond Hills. 

There are many gorgeous towns and villages in Aberdeenshire, Angus, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Cairngorms National Park and the Lothians.