Photo by: Lizzie Enfield
45 fun things to do in Fife
Nestled on Scotland’s eastern coast, the region of Fife is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From its picturesque fishing villages to its stunning beaches and rugged coastline, Fife offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty and rich history to explore. Known for its world-famous golf courses and historic university town of St. Andrews, Fife also boasts a range of other fun and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or delicious local cuisine, Fife has something to offer everyone. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the fun things you can do while exploring this beautiful region of Scotland.
For some of the best fish and chips head to the bustling harbour town of Anstruther. Anstruther Fish Bar and Restaurant have been named Seafish Best in Scotland no fewer than four times!
Anstruther – home to some of the best fish and chips in Scotland
If you are looking for more adrenaline-filled activities then be sure to look at the supercar experience at Knockhill, with expert tuition you will be soon whizzing around the track. For an underground experience, descend beneath a Scottish farmhouse and discover Scotland’s secret nuclear war bunker. This unassuming farmhouse conceals a secret kept for over 50 years – Scotland’s underground nuclear command centre! Built by the RAF in 1953 to withstand the threat of a nuclear attack during the Cold War.
Walk and explore the Royal Burgh of Culross
Step into the past along the cobbled streets of Culross, one of Scotland’s most complete examples of a burgh from the 17th and 18th centuries. The same streets have appeared many times in the hit US TV series Outlander. Notable buildings in the burgh include Culross Town House, formerly used as a courthouse and prison, the 16th century Culross Palace, and the remains of the Cistercian house of Culross Abbey founded in 1217. The Royal Burgh of Culross is around 24 miles from Edinburgh.
Fun facts about Fife
- Fife is the home of golf, including the famous Old Course at St Andrews. The game was first played on the Links at St Andrews in the early 15th century. James II of Scotland banned the game in 1457 because he felt that young men were playing too much golf instead of practising their archery.
- RAF Leuchars, which is the oldest continually operating military air base in the world, opened in 1911 to train the Royal Engineers’ balloon squadron.
- Chariots of Fire’s famous opening scene was shot on St Andrews’ West Sands.
- Britain’s oldest tennis court is at Falkland Palace was built in 1539 for James V. The Palace was a famous hunting retreat of Mary Queen of Scots, who also played tennis there.
- Johnny Cash had family ties to the Fife village of Strathmiglo. The famous singer was descended from a man called William Cash who lived in Strathmiglo in the late 17th Century.
- Dunfermline was Scotland’s capital between the 11th and 15th centuries.
- Fife has been voted a ‘No 1 outdoor destination’ by Scottish Natural Heritage for eight years in a row.
Discovering Fife: fun things to do in Fife
Fife is a beautiful region in Scotland that offers a range of activities for visitors. Here are some fun things you can do in Fife:
- Visit St. Andrews: this beautiful town is famous for its golf courses, beaches, and historic university. Take a walk around the town and explore its charming streets and shops.
- Explore Dunfermline: this ancient capital of Scotland has a rich history that you can explore by visiting the Dunfermline Palace and Abbey, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum and the beautiful Pittencrieff Park.
- Walk the Fife Coastal Path: this 117-mile path offers stunning views of the coast and passes through beautiful towns like Anstruther, Crail, and Pittenweem. It is a great way to explore the rugged coastline of Fife.
- Visit the Scottish Fisheries Museum: this museum in Anstruther showcases the history of fishing in Scotland and has exhibits on the life and work of fishermen and women.
- Enjoy the beaches: Fife has some beautiful beaches, including Elie Beach, St. Andrews Beach, and Tentsmuir Beach. Take a walk along the shoreline, build sandcastles, or try some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
- Explore the Secret Bunker: the Secret Bunker in St. Andrews is a fascinating underground museum that tells the story of the Cold War in Scotland. You can explore the tunnels, bunkers, and control rooms used during that era.
- Visit Culross: this picturesque village is a living museum that offers a glimpse into life in the 17th century. Walk along the cobbled streets, visit the Palace and the Abbey, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Forth estuary.
- Go horse riding: Fife has some excellent equestrian facilities that offer horse riding lessons and treks through the countryside. It is a fun way to explore the rolling hills and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Try some local cuisine: Fife is known for its delicious seafood, including fresh fish and chips, smoked salmon, and haddock. You can also try some traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink.
- Visit the Falkland Palace and Garden: this beautiful palace was the hunting lodge of the Scottish Kings and Queens. It has a stunning garden that is home to a variety of rare plants and flowers. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
