Anstruther in Scotland is a small harbour town in Fife and the perfect getaway location for those that want to enjoy Scotland’s natural scenery. Close to St Andrew’s, this beautiful fishing village is popular with holidaymakers travelling around the east coast of Scotland. You’ll love the many things to do in Anstruther!
Anstruther started as a fishing town, with the records pointing to 1225 as the earliest time Anstruther was mentioned, although its existence likely predates this. Anstruther is now a fantastic tourist attraction that draws recreational sailors and holiday-goers to its marina.
You can also find excellent accommodation in Anstruther and an incredible collection of restaurants and shops. The perfect foundation to discover the best things to do in Anstruther!
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Things to do in Anstruther
This little village has a lot to offer its visitors! Whether you are planning a quiet weekend hanging about by the coast or want to experience something new, Anstruther and its surrounding areas have many great experiences available for tourists to try.
You can visit the fabulous Isle of May, a national nature reserve, explore the nuclear war bunkers hidden underneath the ground, or enjoy the impressive Scottish Fisheries Museum that highlights the history and many changes that Anstruther has been through.
This quaint town has it all, so much so that it can sometimes be challenging to decide what you should be doing. See our guide for the top things to do in Anstruther.
Scottish Fisheries Museum
The Scottish Fisheries Museum is an award-winning national museum that offers a highly educational experience for those who want to learn about Scottish fishing from its earliest incarnations.
The museum was first opened in 1969, and there is now a range of galleries on its site. These buildings date back to the 16th century: including Abbot’s Lodging, Merchant House, Zulu fishing boat gallery, and the courtyard.
Make sure to take a trip to one of the best museums in the region while visiting Anstruther; you won’t regret it!
Anstruther Fish Bar
Are you hungry? If you are, join the thousands of tourists who travel for miles to see what Anstruther Fish Bar offers.
It’s not only locals that rave about this famous spot, but it’s also won multiple awards, including UK Fish and Chip Shop of the year. It’s served with the traditional salt-and-vinegar or a delicious curry sauce. You’ve not been to a fish and chip shop until you’ve had the award-winning fish from Anstruther Fish Bar.
You will not be disappointed by this top tourist attraction, a short walk down Shore Street.
St Andrews
If you are planning on staying in Anstruther for the weekend, take some time to visit the nearby town of St Andrews.
Historic spots, cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and stunning scenery is not the only sights that this town in the Kingdom of Fife is famous for. Welcome to St Andres, the ‘Home of Golf’.
Visitors can pick from ten fantastic courses in the town and site-see many of the tourist spots in this popular holiday destination.
The Isle of May
From Anstruther, you can jump on a boat trip aboard the May Princess to the secluded Isle of May. The island is home to many types of wildlife, including seabirds and seals, and other wildlife!
Boat trips aboard the May Princess to the Isle of May run from May through to September and are extremely popular with Anstruther’s guests, so we advise that you check out their website for more information on when the Princess sails!
The May Princess awaits to take you to the beautiful Isle of May, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to see Anstruther’s island attractions.
Sky diving
Anstruther is a hot spot for a sky diving experience if you’re brave enough.
Sky Diving St Andrews is less than an hour’s drive away from the village. Thrill-seekers will rejoice at the chance to see the beautiful Firth of Forth and the Scottish Highlands from the sky.
Tandem skydives are available here, where new skydivers can jump in tandem with an instructor and take in a rushing birds-eye-view of the Kingdom of Fife.
Scotland’s Secret Bunker
One of Scotland’s most exciting attractions is the Scotland Secret Bunker, a nuclear war bunker and command centre built in 1953.
The Bunker is hidden inland, underneath unsuspecting farmhouse buildings, and is one of the best places to see while in Anstruther. The Bunker offers incredible tours throughout its premises and lets you learn how this Cold War-era bunker and command centre would’ve been used.
The Bunker even has a cafe and restaurant where you can enjoy a stylized drink or meal after your in-depth tour of the facilities.
Anstruther War Memorial
Resembling a Celtic cross, the stunning Anstruther War Memorial sits totally flat in the centre of a landscaped roundel and commemorates the names of those lost in the Second World War.
This beautiful Memorial is an excellent attraction, located in the heart of Anstruther, and gives an honest look into the part that the people of Anstruther played during this conflict.
A trip to this Memorial is undoubtedly worth visiting and is a must-see for any history buff interested in World War II.
Caves of Caiplie
One of the fascinating attractions to see while exploring the East Neuk region is the Caves of Caiplie, located between Anstruther and Crail.
These enchanting caves are the hidden treasure of Anstruther and evoke a history of the East Neuk that you can’t find anywhere else. Simply delving into the various caves of the region allows you to recall the times of Viking settlers, Christian monks, and Neolithic settlers.
This, paired with stunning views of the Firth of Forth, makes the Caves of Caiplie one of the best sites to see while in the Fife region.
Anstruther Golf Club
Are you getting an itch to tee up during your holiday exploring the Fife region of Scotland? There’s no better place to play golf than Anstruther Golf Club!
Home to one of the most demanding par three courses in the UK, your golfing skills are sure to be put to the test. Are you up for the challenge?
Give the famous 9-holes of this golf club a shot, complete with stunning views of Anstruther Harbour and stunning East Neuk views.
St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company
Tantalize your taste buds with high-quality cheeses at the Farmhouse Cheese Company, home to over five different handcrafted cheese and jams, chutneys, and honey that will elevate any meal.
This family-run company prides itself on its authenticity and fantastic product, so why not test it yourself at their adorable coffee shop – They even sell cheesecake!
Kellie Castle and Garden
Exploring the Kellie Castle and Garden is one of the most spectacular sights in the Anstruther, with an incredible interior, viewing gallery, and lush parks and gardens that will take your breath away!
There’s so much to see throughout this stunning Castle and its historic buildings. You’ll be amazed by how well-preserved the murals and furniture are from this 13th-century building!
Cellardyke Play Park
Cellardyke Play Park is the perfect place to have a great day out with the kids, with many excellent facilities and amenities to make use of with the whole family!
The Play Park is also a great summer location, complete with a beach location that makes for a fun-filled day in the sun! Enjoy a day of relaxation as you explore Fife, Scotland and treat your children to a day at this excellent Play Park.
St Fillan’s Cave
St Fillan’s Cave is found along a beautiful coastal path near the close town of Pittenweem and was once a Christian monastery.
Dive into the cave, and you’ll feel the energy and atmosphere that make it such a holy place long ago. Some people even choose to pay respect by donating to maintain the historic site.
You can visit this quick attraction as you head west of Anstruther Harbour, so why not stop by?
More things to do in The Kingdom of Fife
- Things to do in Burntisland
- Things to do in Cupar
- Things to do in Dunfermline
- Things to do in Leven
- Things to do in St Andrews
