Deborah’s guidebook to the surrounding areas.
Neighbourhoods
One of the most picturesque villages in Scotland where the streets have been used as the set for Outlander many times. You can spend the day exploring the cobbled streets, coastal walks and the witches trail.
Enjoy a Nelson's ice cream, visit the Culross Pottery and Gallery, wander around the palace and gardens and then enjoy a pub lunch at the community-owned Red Lion.
Culross is a 20-minute drive West of The Garden Townhouse or you can hop on the number 8/8A bus from the bus station.
43 íbúar mæla með
Culross
One of the most picturesque villages in Scotland where the streets have been used as the set for Outlander many times. You can spend the day exploring the cobbled streets, coastal walks and the witches trail.
Enjoy a Nelson's ice cream, visit the Culross Pottery and Gallery, wander around the palace and gardens and then enjoy a pub lunch at the community-owned Red Lion.
Culross is a 20-minute drive West of The Garden Townhouse or you can hop on the number 8/8A bus from the bus station.
Another lovely coastal village not far from The Garden Townhouse, a 10-minute drive will get you there. Park up and walk along the saltpans to reach another picturesque village of Charlestown. On the way back, stop off for a cold pint at The Ship Inn.
6 íbúar mæla með
Limekilns
Another lovely coastal village not far from The Garden Townhouse, a 10-minute drive will get you there. Park up and walk along the saltpans to reach another picturesque village of Charlestown. On the way back, stop off for a cold pint at The Ship Inn.
South Queensferry is another picturesque village, with colourful houses, cobbled streets and spectacular views of the three bridges. It's also home to one of my favourite shops, Harbour Lane.
It has great places to eat and drink too, including Orocco Pier and the Hawes Inn.
It has a beautiful beach that reaches all the way to Crammond. Why not mark the occasion and drop into the Honey Pot Creative Cafe who have an exciting calendar of workshops, from clay modelling, to dream catchers, there will be something fun going on.
114 íbúar mæla með
Queensferry
South Queensferry is another picturesque village, with colourful houses, cobbled streets and spectacular views of the three bridges. It's also home to one of my favourite shops, Harbour Lane.
It has great places to eat and drink too, including Orocco Pier and the Hawes Inn.
It has a beautiful beach that reaches all the way to Crammond. Why not mark the occasion and drop into the Honey Pot Creative Cafe who have an exciting calendar of workshops, from clay modelling, to dream catchers, there will be something fun going on.
A small and picturesque village, Falkland retains a traditional charm from its medieval roots.
Today Falkland is famous as a filming location for the hugely popular TV series Outlander.
Falkland was the first conservation village in Scotland thanks, in part, to its grand past. Falkland Palace was one of Mary Queen of Scots' favourite places to visit and is one of the finest examples of French renaissance architecture in the UK. It's also home to the world's oldest real tennis court.
If you love the outdoors, head to Falkland Estate to enjoy some beautiful walks. If you're feeling energetic you can climb East Lomond (also known as Falkland Hill) for some fine views over Fife.
It's only a half an hour drive away and once you have visited the palace I would recommend walking to the Pillars of Hercules Organic Farm Shop for a bite to eat.
37 íbúar mæla með
Falkland
A small and picturesque village, Falkland retains a traditional charm from its medieval roots.
Today Falkland is famous as a filming location for the hugely popular TV series Outlander.
Falkland was the first conservation village in Scotland thanks, in part, to its grand past. Falkland Palace was one of Mary Queen of Scots' favourite places to visit and is one of the finest examples of French renaissance architecture in the UK. It's also home to the world's oldest real tennis court.
If you love the outdoors, head to Falkland Estate to enjoy some beautiful walks. If you're feeling energetic you can climb East Lomond (also known as Falkland Hill) for some fine views over Fife.
It's only a half an hour drive away and once you have visited the palace I would recommend walking to the Pillars of Hercules Organic Farm Shop for a bite to eat.
Here you will find Deep Sea World, beach walks, great views of the Forth Bridges.
We often take the coastal path and walk out to Inverkeithing, grabbing a takeaway coffee from Rankin's Cafe and Deli as we go. This is a quiet beach and great for the dogs.
North Queensferry also boasts a Michelin restaurant, The Wee Restaurant where I would always advise booking. Enjoy a drink and hop on the train back (just a warning, the train station is at the top of a steep-ish hill, can be quite a hike when lubricated with a few cocktails).
7 íbúar mæla með
North Queensferry
Here you will find Deep Sea World, beach walks, great views of the Forth Bridges.
We often take the coastal path and walk out to Inverkeithing, grabbing a takeaway coffee from Rankin's Cafe and Deli as we go. This is a quiet beach and great for the dogs.
North Queensferry also boasts a Michelin restaurant, The Wee Restaurant where I would always advise booking. Enjoy a drink and hop on the train back (just a warning, the train station is at the top of a steep-ish hill, can be quite a hike when lubricated with a few cocktails).
Anstruther is a busy, seaside village which is most famous for its award-winning fish and chips which taste even better eaten in the fresh air overlooking the lovely harbour.
Anstruther has long been a fishing village, although these days there are more pleasure boats than fishing ones. You can learn all about the history in the Scottish Fisheries Museum. It's also nice to just stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy the buildings and charm of this fishing town. During the summer months, you can also take a boat trip from Anstruther to the Isle of May to view the puffins!
30 íbúar mæla með
Anstruther
Anstruther is a busy, seaside village which is most famous for its award-winning fish and chips which taste even better eaten in the fresh air overlooking the lovely harbour.
Anstruther has long been a fishing village, although these days there are more pleasure boats than fishing ones. You can learn all about the history in the Scottish Fisheries Museum. It's also nice to just stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy the buildings and charm of this fishing town. During the summer months, you can also take a boat trip from Anstruther to the Isle of May to view the puffins!
Situated on the Fife Coastal Path, St Monans draws people to it with its pretty houses and harbour, not to mention the remains of the once-great Newark Castle.
A climb up to St Monans church will reward you with breathtaking views over the Forth, and you can spot the three piers jutting out from St Monans. Climb a bit further to St Monans Windmill to find out about the salt production that used to be based here.
The Bowhouse food market is a must-do if you are in the area. The market takes place each month just outside the village and showcases some of the very best local food & drink, music and crafts.
East Pier serves the best of local food at a unique location in the beautiful village.
13 íbúar mæla með
Saint Monans
Situated on the Fife Coastal Path, St Monans draws people to it with its pretty houses and harbour, not to mention the remains of the once-great Newark Castle.
A climb up to St Monans church will reward you with breathtaking views over the Forth, and you can spot the three piers jutting out from St Monans. Climb a bit further to St Monans Windmill to find out about the salt production that used to be based here.
The Bowhouse food market is a must-do if you are in the area. The market takes place each month just outside the village and showcases some of the very best local food & drink, music and crafts.
East Pier serves the best of local food at a unique location in the beautiful village.
Elie boasts a beautiful award-winning sandy beach which is perfect for lounging in the sun with a picnic or trying out a range of watersports that are available for both beginners as well as the more experienced. The peaceful nook of the ruby bay, the lady's tower and Elie lighthouse make a lovely coastal walk and offer plenty of Insta-worthy spots!
If you're feeling peckish, the village of Elie also has a number of restaurants and delicatessens where you can grab an ice cream, spot of lunch or delicious evening meal! Ardross Farm Shop also stock some fantastic local produce including local meats, handmade ready meals, organic fruit and veg, cheeses, craft beers and spirits, delicious puddings, home baking and more.
9 íbúar mæla með
Earlsferry
Elie boasts a beautiful award-winning sandy beach which is perfect for lounging in the sun with a picnic or trying out a range of watersports that are available for both beginners as well as the more experienced. The peaceful nook of the ruby bay, the lady's tower and Elie lighthouse make a lovely coastal walk and offer plenty of Insta-worthy spots!
If you're feeling peckish, the village of Elie also has a number of restaurants and delicatessens where you can grab an ice cream, spot of lunch or delicious evening meal! Ardross Farm Shop also stock some fantastic local produce including local meats, handmade ready meals, organic fruit and veg, cheeses, craft beers and spirits, delicious puddings, home baking and more.
Crail is a charming fishing village in the East Neuk of Fife and boasts one of the UK's most photographed harbours.
Cobbled streets lead to the harbour where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood at the Lobster Hut during the tourist season. In June each year, the village comes alive as it hosts the Crail Food Festival.
There are plenty of buildings of historical interest, including the Tollbooth with its tower dating from about 1600. Many come to walk the beautiful stretch of Fife Coastal Path.
34 íbúar mæla með
Crail
Crail is a charming fishing village in the East Neuk of Fife and boasts one of the UK's most photographed harbours.
Cobbled streets lead to the harbour where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood at the Lobster Hut during the tourist season. In June each year, the village comes alive as it hosts the Crail Food Festival.
There are plenty of buildings of historical interest, including the Tollbooth with its tower dating from about 1600. Many come to walk the beautiful stretch of Fife Coastal Path.
A bustling town, Pittenweem is an active port and has a fish market every morning, plenty of shops to browse in, and a good selection of pubs and restaurants. Visitors flock to enjoy the lively atmosphere and traditional charm of the place, and its houses with the Dutch style crow-stepped gables.
The Pittenweem Arts Festival brings resident artists together to offer exhibitions, workshops, performances, talks and children’s events, all related to the arts. It is highly respected in Scotland and further afield.
17 íbúar mæla með
Pittenweem
A bustling town, Pittenweem is an active port and has a fish market every morning, plenty of shops to browse in, and a good selection of pubs and restaurants. Visitors flock to enjoy the lively atmosphere and traditional charm of the place, and its houses with the Dutch style crow-stepped gables.
The Pittenweem Arts Festival brings resident artists together to offer exhibitions, workshops, performances, talks and children’s events, all related to the arts. It is highly respected in Scotland and further afield.
Newport-on-Tay is a beautiful town situated on the banks of The Tay, with many interesting examples of Victorian architecture including an elaborate drinking fountain.
It has long been a commuter town for Dundee - the river has been crossed at this point since the 12th century - and today it provides a perfect location for visitors looking to explore Fife and the surrounding areas.
Enjoy a walk along the Fife Coastal Path and for a Masterchef dinner, treat yourself at The Newport, Jamie Scott's restaurant with panoramic views across the river.
12 íbúar mæla með
Newport-on-Tay
Newport-on-Tay is a beautiful town situated on the banks of The Tay, with many interesting examples of Victorian architecture including an elaborate drinking fountain.
It has long been a commuter town for Dundee - the river has been crossed at this point since the 12th century - and today it provides a perfect location for visitors looking to explore Fife and the surrounding areas.
Enjoy a walk along the Fife Coastal Path and for a Masterchef dinner, treat yourself at The Newport, Jamie Scott's restaurant with panoramic views across the river.
Ceres has been named 'the most attractive village in Scotland' and it's clear to see why with its unique village layout and attractive pantiled cottages around a central green.
This green host the annual Games said to be the oldest in Scotland, celebrating the return of local men from the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Learn how your granny used to live on a visit to the Fife Folk Museum, which gives a fascinating glimpse into rural life in Fife over two centuries.
Griselda Hill Pottery also makes the highly collectable Wemyssware and there's a viewing gallery, where you can watch them paint these beautiful pieces.
Ceres is also on the Fife Pilgrim Way, a new 64-mile route from Culross or North Queensferry in the west to St Andrews in the North East, taking in spectacular views along the way.
Ceres
Ceres has been named 'the most attractive village in Scotland' and it's clear to see why with its unique village layout and attractive pantiled cottages around a central green.
This green host the annual Games said to be the oldest in Scotland, celebrating the return of local men from the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Learn how your granny used to live on a visit to the Fife Folk Museum, which gives a fascinating glimpse into rural life in Fife over two centuries.
Griselda Hill Pottery also makes the highly collectable Wemyssware and there's a viewing gallery, where you can watch them paint these beautiful pieces.
Ceres is also on the Fife Pilgrim Way, a new 64-mile route from Culross or North Queensferry in the west to St Andrews in the North East, taking in spectacular views along the way.
Favourite Walks
We often frequent this walk as it is a little quieter to its neighbouring forest, Devilla.
You can make this walk as short or as long as you like. It can join on to surrounding forests or you can walk into Culross (see Culross in the guide).
A half an hour drive from the townhouse, type Balgownie Woods into google maps for directions.
Balgownie Wood
We often frequent this walk as it is a little quieter to its neighbouring forest, Devilla.
You can make this walk as short or as long as you like. It can join on to surrounding forests or you can walk into Culross (see Culross in the guide).
A half an hour drive from the townhouse, type Balgownie Woods into google maps for directions.
Another lovely forestry walk and you can also make it short or long. The fairy trail is great fun for the kids and if you park at the car park as you come off the main road, you might be lucky and spot the llamas in the field.
Blairadam Forest Fairy Trail
Another lovely forestry walk and you can also make it short or long. The fairy trail is great fun for the kids and if you park at the car park as you come off the main road, you might be lucky and spot the llamas in the field.
We are so lucky to have such great walks nearby. This is another favourite where it connects to the cycle path that can take you all the way out to Alloa.
The Dean Plantation
34 Lundin RdWe are so lucky to have such great walks nearby. This is another favourite where it connects to the cycle path that can take you all the way out to Alloa.
A great spot for seeing a carpet of beautiful bluebells. There is also a horse riding school here. The Valleyfield woods also connects to Balgownie and Devilla Forest.
Valleyfield Woods
A great spot for seeing a carpet of beautiful bluebells. There is also a horse riding school here. The Valleyfield woods also connects to Balgownie and Devilla Forest.
Known as the Walnut Whip to locals, this previous mine has now been earmarked for leisure, tourism and recreation and right now it's a vast area to walk and view some lovely land art https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcvWRWg7fWc
St. Ninians former opencast mine
Known as the Walnut Whip to locals, this previous mine has now been earmarked for leisure, tourism and recreation and right now it's a vast area to walk and view some lovely land art https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcvWRWg7fWc
The Loch Leven Heritage Trail around Loch Leven linking Kinross with RSPB Loch Leven and back to Kinross. It’s well signposted, so you won’t get lost, and nearby cafés can provide refreshments.
13 íbúar mæla með
Loch Leven Heritage Trail
Loch Leven Heritage TrailThe Loch Leven Heritage Trail around Loch Leven linking Kinross with RSPB Loch Leven and back to Kinross. It’s well signposted, so you won’t get lost, and nearby cafés can provide refreshments.
Deep gorges, rushing burns, towering trees and a ruined castle make Dollar Glen the perfect place to ramble away from day-to-day life.
This beautiful stretch of woodland lies east of Stirling and is ensconced in the shadow of the Ochil Hills. There’s a wealth of rare wildlife habitats here, including being a nationally important location for lichens and ferns. Green woodpecker, dipper and nuthatch are three of the many species of birds who live in the lush, wooded gorges.
Wander the banks of the Burns of Sorrow and Care or try to storm Castle Campbell, the 15th-century stronghold of the Earls of Argyll, standing high overlooking the gorges and tree-lined slopes.
14 íbúar mæla með
Dollar Glen
20 Castle RdDeep gorges, rushing burns, towering trees and a ruined castle make Dollar Glen the perfect place to ramble away from day-to-day life.
This beautiful stretch of woodland lies east of Stirling and is ensconced in the shadow of the Ochil Hills. There’s a wealth of rare wildlife habitats here, including being a nationally important location for lichens and ferns. Green woodpecker, dipper and nuthatch are three of the many species of birds who live in the lush, wooded gorges.
Wander the banks of the Burns of Sorrow and Care or try to storm Castle Campbell, the 15th-century stronghold of the Earls of Argyll, standing high overlooking the gorges and tree-lined slopes.
City/town information
Take the coastal route to St Andrews and stop off at all the wonderful villages on the way; Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail.
Or spend the full day in St Andrews, exploring the history, the beaches, golf course and the lovely cafes.
257 íbúar mæla með
St Andrews
Take the coastal route to St Andrews and stop off at all the wonderful villages on the way; Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail.
Or spend the full day in St Andrews, exploring the history, the beaches, golf course and the lovely cafes.
People certainly make Glasgow! Known as the grimey city, Glasgow is friendly and architecturally stunning, be sure to look up when you're wandering around.
203 íbúar mæla með
Glasgow
People certainly make Glasgow! Known as the grimey city, Glasgow is friendly and architecturally stunning, be sure to look up when you're wandering around.
Scotland's hottest (or at least sunniest!) city, Dundee, is a dynamic and compact city that's becoming a modern wonder. Not only is it a UNESCO City of Design, but it's home to the V&A Dundee, the world's only V&A museum outside of London.
This is a city with science, historic ships and museums for kids (and big kids), plenty of culture with theatres, arts centres and cool bars for grown-ups, and walking routes past interesting architecture for everyone who visits. Find out why Dundee is a great city to visit and plan your trip now.
64 íbúar mæla með
Dundee
Scotland's hottest (or at least sunniest!) city, Dundee, is a dynamic and compact city that's becoming a modern wonder. Not only is it a UNESCO City of Design, but it's home to the V&A Dundee, the world's only V&A museum outside of London.
This is a city with science, historic ships and museums for kids (and big kids), plenty of culture with theatres, arts centres and cool bars for grown-ups, and walking routes past interesting architecture for everyone who visits. Find out why Dundee is a great city to visit and plan your trip now.
Sightseeing
Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims on this new 64-mile walking route.
If you've walked the Fife Coastal Path and loved that, you're sure to enjoy tackling this new long-distance walking route. Starting your journey at Culross and North Queensferry, the 64 miles (104km) path takes in spectacular views of the Highlands, the Coast, Forth and Tay Estuaries and the Lomond Hills. It passes medieval landmarks, industrial landscapes and historic picturesque villages on its way to St Andrews.
The Fife Pilgrim Way - Waymarker
Redwells RoadWalk in the footsteps of pilgrims on this new 64-mile walking route.
If you've walked the Fife Coastal Path and loved that, you're sure to enjoy tackling this new long-distance walking route. Starting your journey at Culross and North Queensferry, the 64 miles (104km) path takes in spectacular views of the Highlands, the Coast, Forth and Tay Estuaries and the Lomond Hills. It passes medieval landmarks, industrial landscapes and historic picturesque villages on its way to St Andrews.
Starting underneath the world-famous Forth Bridges which stretch across the Firth of Forth, the Fife Coastal Path takes you past dramatic cliffs and bays, over grassy dunes, along miles of long sandy beaches and through the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife. Internationally important estuaries and an abundance of wildlife make this walk a real Scottish adventure.
All along the coast are wonderful sea views and reminders of Scotland’s rich history – including prehistoric caves and castles. From Anstruther, the Path also allows the opportunity to explore the Isle of May Nature Reserve, a major seabird sanctuary home to thousands of seabirds including puffins, terns, fulmars and gannets.
Towards the end of the walk arrive in the beautiful town of St Andrews with its ancient university and visit the world-famous golf courses. Explore centuries of history in its beautiful ruined castle, cathedral remains and university buildings.
19 íbúar mæla með
Fife Coastal Path
PathStarting underneath the world-famous Forth Bridges which stretch across the Firth of Forth, the Fife Coastal Path takes you past dramatic cliffs and bays, over grassy dunes, along miles of long sandy beaches and through the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife. Internationally important estuaries and an abundance of wildlife make this walk a real Scottish adventure.
All along the coast are wonderful sea views and reminders of Scotland’s rich history – including prehistoric caves and castles. From Anstruther, the Path also allows the opportunity to explore the Isle of May Nature Reserve, a major seabird sanctuary home to thousands of seabirds including puffins, terns, fulmars and gannets.
Towards the end of the walk arrive in the beautiful town of St Andrews with its ancient university and visit the world-famous golf courses. Explore centuries of history in its beautiful ruined castle, cathedral remains and university buildings.
Things to do
Covering over 55 acres of countryside, the centre is home to fourteen species of deer from all over the world, Fife’s only wolf pack, otters and other rare breeds including the Scottish Wildcat. You can also come face to face with some amazing birds in the Raptor World Bird of Prey Centre. You’ll learn all about these amazing creatures and enjoy a day that is not only fun but also provides a fascinating insight into the animal kingdom.
31 íbúar mæla með
Skoskt hirðýrakeskja
Covering over 55 acres of countryside, the centre is home to fourteen species of deer from all over the world, Fife’s only wolf pack, otters and other rare breeds including the Scottish Wildcat. You can also come face to face with some amazing birds in the Raptor World Bird of Prey Centre. You’ll learn all about these amazing creatures and enjoy a day that is not only fun but also provides a fascinating insight into the animal kingdom.
Deep Sea World is an aquarium located in the village of North Queensferry, in Fife, Scotland. It is host to a collection of large sand tiger sharks, also known as ragged toothed sharks or grey nurse sharks, and various other species of shark.
82 íbúar mæla með
Deep Sea World
Forthside TerraceDeep Sea World is an aquarium located in the village of North Queensferry, in Fife, Scotland. It is host to a collection of large sand tiger sharks, also known as ragged toothed sharks or grey nurse sharks, and various other species of shark.
RSPB Scotland Loch Leven is part of Loch Leven National Nature Reserve. The loch is famous for its connections to Mary Queen of Scots and as Scotland’s largest lowland freshwater loch.
Set on the southern shore of the loch and only 40 minutes from Edinburgh, RSPB Scotland Loch Leven offers a great day out for families, nature lovers and wildlife watchers alike.
17 íbúar mæla með
RSPB Scotland Loch Leven
B9097RSPB Scotland Loch Leven is part of Loch Leven National Nature Reserve. The loch is famous for its connections to Mary Queen of Scots and as Scotland’s largest lowland freshwater loch.
Set on the southern shore of the loch and only 40 minutes from Edinburgh, RSPB Scotland Loch Leven offers a great day out for families, nature lovers and wildlife watchers alike.
Lochore Meadows Country Park is 2 miles north of Lochgelly and a major centre for outdoor and leisure in Fife.
Enjoy the wonderful scenery at this country park in Fife with Loch Ore at its heart.
Many leisure activities are available, including barbecuing, picnicking, birdwatching and cycling. Organised and membership activities include golf, fishing, orienteering, watersports and mountain biking.
Lochore Meadows Country Park also boasts a beach and a fun adventure playground for children. Try and spot the wildlife here as you take one of the trails, many of which are wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible.
10 íbúar mæla með
Lochore Meadows
Lochore Meadows Country Park is 2 miles north of Lochgelly and a major centre for outdoor and leisure in Fife.
Enjoy the wonderful scenery at this country park in Fife with Loch Ore at its heart.
Many leisure activities are available, including barbecuing, picnicking, birdwatching and cycling. Organised and membership activities include golf, fishing, orienteering, watersports and mountain biking.
Lochore Meadows Country Park also boasts a beach and a fun adventure playground for children. Try and spot the wildlife here as you take one of the trails, many of which are wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible.
Sitting on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland is a spectacular hidden gem set in over 100-acres of meadow and woodland. A contemporary sculpture park and art gallery and makes for a fantastic day out.
It’s open to the public from May-September and booking is highly recommended.
107 íbúar mæla með
Jupiter Artland
Sitting on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Jupiter Artland is a spectacular hidden gem set in over 100-acres of meadow and woodland. A contemporary sculpture park and art gallery and makes for a fantastic day out.
It’s open to the public from May-September and booking is highly recommended.