Unmissable Things To Do In Fife [2025]

If you’re anything like me, a proper holiday isn't complete without a grand day out in the fresh air, a bit of exploring, and the happy thump of a dog’s tail against the carpet when you finally settle down for the evening. And when it comes to outdoor staycations in Scotland, few places offer the variety and sheer rugged beauty of the East Neuk. If you are looking for the very best things to do in fife, you've landed in the right spot.

I spent my childhood summers right here in Anstruther, and while the villages have smartened up a touch over the years, the scenery—and the welcome—hasn’t changed one bit. The East Coast of Scotland offers a perfect blend of challenging coastline, rolling farmland, and fascinating history, making it the ideal destination for active breaks with a canine companion. Our mission here is to get boots on the ground and tails wagging, showing you the absolute heart of the region.

This comprehensive guide cuts through the tourist chatter to bring you the best things to do in fife, detailing the walks that truly matter, from the iconic coastal path sections right through to the surprisingly wild hills inland. We'll make sure your dog is catered for every step of the way, and that you know exactly where to recharge once the day’s exploring is done.

Things To Do In Fife: The Iconic Fife Coastal Path

There is no discussion about things to do in fife that doesn't start with the Fife Coastal Path. Stretching 117 miles, this trail is Scotland’s answer to coastal majesty, offering everything from sandy beaches to rugged cliff edges. While you certainly don't need to tackle the whole thing, the sections that pass right through the East Neuk—linking the historic fishing villages—are, in my opinion, the most rewarding and accessible.

The path offers wonderful flexibility. You can choose a demanding seven-mile hike one day and a gentle two-mile potter the next. This makes planning your holiday itinerary much easier, especially when factoring in your dog’s energy levels and the changeable Scottish weather. When planning any coastal walk, always check the tide times, as a couple of sections, particularly further north, have tidal diversions. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when you are out exploring the stunning views.

Village Hopping: Anstruther, Crail, and Pittenweem

For a quintessential taste of the things to do in anstruther fife, the walk east towards Crail is an absolute must-do. This stretch is roughly 4.25 miles (6.75 km) and usually takes a brisk walker about 90 minutes, though you'll definitely want to take longer to soak in the views.

Starting from the bustle of Anstruther harbour, you quickly move into the quieter, historically rich Cellardyke. Look closely at the ancient salt pans and the tiny, secluded Skinfast Haven harbour, which was once far more important than Anstruther itself! From here, the path becomes a classic coastal ramble. You’ll follow a well-trodden grassy track past Caiplie Caves (a grand spot for photographs) and enjoy outstanding views over the Firth of Forth towards the Isle of May, which is home to thousands of puffins in the summer months. The terrain is straightforward—mostly grass and firm earth—though it can get muddy, so proper walking boots are essential. Your dog will love the freedom here, but remember to keep them close and under control, particularly as you approach Crail’s golf course and any fields with livestock.

The reward for this walk is Crail itself. It’s arguably the most photogenic harbour in all of Scotland, with its red pantile roofs tumbling down to the sea. The bus service (the reliable 95) runs regularly between Anstruther and Crail, so you can enjoy a well-earned rest and a bite to eat before hopping back. You can find more detail on this, and other routes, by checking out our dedicated guide.

If you are looking for a slightly gentler, shorter walk, heading west offers an excellent alternative and is a prime example of accessible things to do in fife. The stretch from Anstruther to Pittenweem is only about two miles, flat, paved, and extremely popular with dog walkers. Pittenweem remains Fife’s only truly active working fishing harbour, and seeing the boats land their catches is a sight to behold. For history buffs, the St Fillan’s Cave, tucked into the cliff face, is a worthwhile, if short, detour. You can continue on to St Monans, famed for its beautiful kirk (church) perched right on the edge of the water and the iconic windmill, once used to pump seawater into the ancient salt pans. This is a superb route for experiencing the best things to do in fife scotland on a relaxed afternoon stroll.

Things to Do in Fife: Finding the Best Inland Adventures

While the coast often steals the spotlight, don't overlook the superb inland things to do in fife that cater to that adventurous streak. After days of sea air, the change to rolling farmland and wild hills is a welcome one. Our audience, who love outdoor staycations and proper trail walking, will appreciate the variety offered by the Lomond Hills and the ancient woodlands. This offers a different kind of adventure—proper hillwalking with grand panoramic views rather than endless sea vistas.

For those seeking a bit more ascent, the Lomond Hills Regional Park, easily accessible from Anstruther, provides some of the highest points in the county. East Lomond and West Lomond stand as distinctive peaks, visible for miles, and conquering either one is a grand accomplishment for the day.

West Lomond is the highest, and a circular route starting from Craigmead car park is around five miles and moderately challenging, taking about 3.5 hours. From the summit, you can see across Fife and beyond—a truly breath-taking vista that validates the effort. The paths are well-established, though you need sensible navigation skills and to be prepared for sudden changes in mountain weather. The reward is a proper feeling of wilderness and a fantastic workout.

East Lomond is slightly easier and closer to Falkland. The approach from Falkland Estate is shorter and offers rich historical context, as the hill was once home to an Iron Age fort. These inland things to do in fife give your dog a chance to explore new scents and terrain away from the seaside. Always ensure you carry maps and adequate supplies when tackling the higher ground. Walkhighlands is a fantastic resource for checking detailed routes and conditions before setting off for these more remote adventures.

Things to do in Fife: Maspie Den and Falkland Estate

Just north of the Lomond Hills is the beautiful Falkland Estate, which provides some of the best woodland things to do in fife. This is a proper hidden gem, especially the walk through Maspie Den. This three-mile route follows a deep, hidden river valley, featuring a stunning waterfall and often requiring you to navigate steps and narrow bridges. It feels incredibly far removed from the bustling East Neuk villages.

This environment is perfect for dogs who need shade and varied surfaces. It’s an enchanting walk that was once a royal hunting ground, offering a fascinating slice of Scottish history while you enjoy your walk. The change of pace and scenery from the coast is a great way to break up your trip.

Dog-Friendly Taverns and Local Flavours

After a long day of tackling the trails—whether you were exploring the rugged coast or the higher ground—you need a quality spot to relax. One of the joys of taking a staycation in the East Neuk is the quality of the food and drink, and thankfully, Anstruther is brilliantly set up for dog owners. Knowing you’ve got a cosy, welcoming spot for a pint and some grub is half the joy of completing a walk, making this a crucial part of the things to do in fife experience.

Anstruther has several excellent places where well-behaved dogs are warmly welcomed, often providing water bowls and treats for your four-legged friend.

• The Dreel Tavern: This is one of Anstruther's most historic buildings and a true local's favourite. It offers a wonderfully cosy atmosphere with an open fire in the winter—perfect for drying off a damp dog and cold boots. They pride themselves on local sourcing, providing a high-quality dining experience, with their menus changing seasonally. They even have an awesome beer garden overlooking the Dreel Burn for sunny days. It’s a stellar spot for experiencing the best things to do in anstruther fife after your walk.

• The Ship Inn: Just across the road, this traditional pub is another brilliant dog-friendly option. It's exactly the kind of place where you can relax after a coastal walk, offering traditional pub fare and a grand selection of real ales.

Knowing where to find the best local produce and a welcoming atmosphere is vital for a rewarding trip.

Things to do in Fife: East Neuk’s History and Heritage

While you might be primarily focused on things to do in fife and outdoor adventure, the East Neuk is steeped in Scottish history, providing excellent cultural breaks for your trip. These activities are usually brief, require minimal walking, and add a layer of depth and interest to your holiday itinerary, giving your legs a rest before the next big walk.

• The Scottish Fisheries Museum, Anstruther: Located right on the harbour, this museum is a fascinating look into the area's rich maritime history. It’s perfect for a rainy afternoon and truly helps you understand the heritage of the villages you’ve just walked through. You can learn all about the fishing industry that built Anstruther and the East Neuk, making this a key part of the things to do in anstruther fife experience.

• The Secret Bunker: Just outside Anstruther, this hidden bunker (originally a Cold War command centre) is an absolutely unique attraction and offers a complete break from the coastal air and the chance to step back in time.

• The Reaper: Keep an eye out for the Reaper, a magnificent 1900-built herring drifter, often moored in Anstruther harbour. She’s a great piece of local maritime heritage and a grand sight.

Things to do in Fife: Golfing

Let's be honest, sometimes one half of a couple fancies a slower day. For the golf enthusiast, Fife is legendary. While St Andrews gets all the attention, the East Neuk has several stunning, often quieter, coastal courses. Crail, for example, is home to the Crail Golfing Society, which boasts two courses—Balcomie and Craighead—offering phenomenal views alongside a quality game. This is one of the more relaxed things to do in fife scotland. Pairing a long walk for one partner with a round of golf for the other makes for a perfectly balanced day on a couples' staycation.

Planning and Maximising Your Fife Stay

When you’re planning a staycation in the East Neuk focused on walking and quality time, staying centrally in a place like Anstruther gives you the best springboard for all the things to do in fife. Being based here means the best coastal walks are right on your doorstep, and you have quick access to local amenities, high-quality dog-friendly taverns, and the main bus routes that link the villages.

We know that people who seek out proper outdoor holidays with their dogs need accommodation that is reliable, secure, and ready for muddy boots and damp paws. That’s why Anstruther is the ideal base; it provides that authentic fishing village experience combined with the convenience needed for an active holiday.

The commitment to exploring the best things to do in fife scotland requires proper planning, and that includes making sure you know where to park, where to find public toilets (they are few and far between on the path!), and how to use the local bus service (the aforementioned 95 service is a lifeline). Don’t forget that many smaller, local businesses offer great advice, too. We love to share our local knowledge with guests!

Things to do in Fife: FAQ's

Q1: Are the beaches in the East Neuk of Fife dog-friendly year-round?

Most of the smaller, rocky coves and beaches in the East Neuk, like those around Cellardyke and Pittenweem, are generally dog-friendly all year. However, some larger, popular sandy areas, such as the famous West Sands in St Andrews, have restrictions during the summer months (usually April to September). Always check local signage, but you'll find plenty of spots for a good run on the sand during your staycation, ensuring your dog can enjoy the best things to do in fife scotland just as much as you.

Q2: Is the Fife Coastal Path difficult for older dogs or those with joint issues?

The difficulty of the Fife Coastal Path varies significantly. The section between Anstruther and Crail, while straightforward, involves grassy paths and occasional stiles and can be muddy. The gentlest sections, ideal for older or less mobile dogs, are the paved, flat stretches between the fishing villages, such as Pittenweem and St Monans, where you can easily do a short "there and back" without encountering steep climbs. It’s always best to choose a paved section for an easy things to do in fife experience.

Q3: What should I pack specifically for dog walking in this part of Scotland?

Beyond the usual essentials (lead, bags, water), I’d strongly recommend carrying proper paw wax or balm, as the salt, rocks, and rougher coastal terrain can be hard on pads. Always bring layers for yourself—a waterproof jacket is non-negotiable—and if you are heading to the Lomond Hills for some of the higher things to do in fife, a small first-aid kit, a map, and a whistle are vital safety measures.

Q4: Are there many public transport links to access different trailheads?

Yes, absolutely. The East Neuk is well served by the Stagecoach 95 bus route, which runs the coastal route, connecting all the main villages, including Anstruther, Crail, Pittenweem, St Monans, Elie, and St Andrews. This makes planning linear walks (walking one way and busing back) extremely easy, which is the best way to tackle many of the key things to do in fife. You can buy day tickets, which are cost-effective for couples planning multiple walks.

Q5: Where can I find reputable local information on guided walks or trail updates?

For the most reliable and up-to-date trail conditions, especially after bad weather, you should check the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust website. They maintain the official paths and often post about closures, diversions, and seasonal changes that might affect your planned things to do in fife. For specific, short, guided history walks in the villages, check local community notice boards when you arrive in Anstruther.