Things To Do With Kids Fife [2025] Guide

If your perfect family trip involves a good walk, exploring a historic town, and finishing the day with classic fish and chips—and bringing the dog along is non-negotiable—then Fife is the ideal spot. With family history along this coastline, I know the best things to do with kids in Fife, focusing on outdoor, staycation-friendly adventures that the whole family, including your four-legged friend, will enjoy.

Many people think only of St Andrews when they consider Fife, but the real charm is spread throughout the region, especially along the East Neuk. We’ve been coming here for generations. Sharing these beautiful beaches and coastal paths is always a highlight. This guide isn't just a list; it’s a plan for a memorable, screen-free family break focused on quality time, excellent value, and getting a breath of fresh North Sea air.

To help you plan your Scottish staycation, here is the local scoop on family spots that work for everyone.

Things To Do With Kids Fife: Coastal Walks and Harbour Hopping

If you base yourself in the East Neuk, you'll likely spend time around Anstruther. It's the coastal hub, famous for its harbour and its well-known fish and chips. Beyond the food, there are many wonderful things to do in Anstruther, Fife, and the surrounding fishing villages that offer a relaxed pace of life.

The Crail to Anstruther Trail: A Great Coastal Path Section

For families, the section of the Fife Coastal Path between Crail and Anstruther is simply one of the best. At about six miles, it’s a manageable distance for children aged eight and up (or younger kids with a sturdy buggy and some strategically timed snacks!).

This walk perfectly captures the East Neuk experience. You walk past striking cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping golf courses, with stunning views across the Firth of Forth. The path is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it one of the easiest things to do with kids in Fife for outdoor exercise. Our dog loves the variety of sights and the chance to paddle in a small, hidden beach.

Local Tip: Start in Crail and walk towards Anstruther. The view of Anstruther harbour getting closer, along with the reward of dinner at the Anstruther Fish Bar (or a local spot like The Dreel Tavern, which is dog-friendly), provides great motivation for little legs.

If you’re looking for a base that balances historic character with comfort, consider a cottage nearby, often perfect for housing a family, accommodating muddy boots, and welcoming tired dogs after a day on the trails.

Anstruther Pleasure Cruises and the Isle of May

For truly unique things to do with kids in Fife, a boat trip from Anstruther harbour to the Isle of May is highly recommended. This is best for families with slightly older children, and you must check the weather, as the North Sea can be rough.

The Isle of May is a National Nature Reserve and home to thousands of seabirds—including puffins, gannets, and guillemots—during the breeding season (April to mid-August). Seeing these birds is a memorable experience and a wonderful, hands-on lesson in Scottish wildlife. While dogs are not allowed on the island itself (to protect the birds), the boat trip is enjoyable, with operators often pointing out seals resting on the rocks.

Free and Low-Cost Activities: Things to Do in Fife With Kids

As any family knows, finding brilliant, high-quality days out that don’t cost a lot is important. When you’re looking for things to do in Fife with kids, some of the best days are the simplest. Fife excels at this, offering large outdoor spaces and historic sites that often only charge for parking, if anything at all.

Things to do with Kids in Fife: Craigtoun Country Park

If you want an absolutely reliable, fun day that caters to children of all ages, head to Craigtoun Country Park, just outside St Andrews. It is one of the best things to do with kids in Fife.

The Best Part: Entry to the park itself is free. The park covers 47 acres of grounds, where you can walk the Italian Gardens, explore the wooded areas, and let the kids use up energy in the impressive free play area. Dogs are also welcome, making it perfect for the whole family.

During the warmer months (typically April to October), seasonal attractions run for a small fee, including a miniature railway, pedal boats on the lake, and a putting green. You can pack a picnic, spend the entire day there, and only pay for a few small rides or an ice cream. It is the perfect family day out.

Lochore Meadows Country Park

Lochore Meadows, or 'The Meedies', is another example of brilliant, free, and accessible things to do with kids in Fife. Located further west, this huge country park offers over 1,200 acres of parkland, woodlands, and a large loch.

It offers miles of cycling paths, bird hides, a huge adventure playground, and a beach area by the water. They also offer water sports activities like paddleboarding and kayaking for a reasonable cost, which is a fantastic way to engage active teenagers. For dog owners, the trails around the loch are excellent. This park offers a full day out, providing value and variety.

Outdoor Things to Do in Fife

Families who enjoy walking and the outdoor life will appreciate the natural variety Fife offers. Finding great things to do with kids in Fife that involve nature and exercise is easy, and these spots are reliable choices.

Things to do with Kids Fife: Tentsmuir Forest and Beach

Tentsmuir Forest, up near Tayport in North Fife, offers a beautiful space where woodland meets the sea. It's an excellent place for a family day out, offering a different walking experience than the coastal path.

You can take a leisurely walk through the dense pine and oak woods, looking for red squirrels and deer , before the path leads out onto the massive, wild Tentsmuir Beach. The beach is known for its 'musselburgh pennies' (sea potatoes), and you might even spot grey seals resting on the sandbanks.

This is a fantastic place where nature is the entertainment. Kids love exploring the dunes and the trees, and the dog can run safely in an open environment. The mix of forest trails and beach access means you can easily spend four or five hours here.

St Andrews Beaches: West Sands and East Sands

While St Andrews is globally known for golf, its beaches are just as famous and offer brilliant things to do with kids in Fife.

West Sands, known from the film Chariots of Fire, is a vast, two-mile stretch of golden sand backed by dunes. It’s huge, meaning you can always find a quiet spot, even on a busy day. It is perfect for kite flying, beach games, or a long walk. Be aware of dog zoning restrictions near the golf course during the peak season, but there is always plenty of space elsewhere.

East Sands, near the harbour, is smaller and often calmer, making it great for younger children to paddle. A combined trip here, perhaps with a visit to the St Andrews Aquarium (another fun family activity), makes for a rewarding day out.

Historic Things to Do in Fife with Kids

Part of the fun of a staycation in Fife is experiencing the history. The region is full of medieval and royal heritage. Learning about the past by walking through the ruins of an ancient castle or abbey is much better than a textbook, and it is one of the most rewarding things to do with kids in Fife for curious families.

Things to do with kids Fife: The Royal Burgh of Culross

When talking about historic towns, Culross is Fife's most picturesque village. Maintained by the National Trust for Scotland, this preserved 17th-century village feels like stepping into a historical story—it’s also famous for its use as a filming location for the Outlander series.

Walking its cobbled streets, visiting the distinct yellow Culross Palace, and exploring the Abbey ruins for a captivating afternoon. It’s engaging history for children. They are usually fascinated by the winding lanes. Dogs are generally welcome in the grounds and village, though not inside the Palace buildings.

St Andrews Castle and Cathedral: Epic Ruins to Explore

If you have slightly older children (10 and up) who enjoy historical drama, the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and Castle are essential things to do with kids in Fife.

The Cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland, is now a magnificent ruin, and its sheer size is impressive. Kids can climb St Rule's Tower for incredible views over the town and coastline.

Just down the road is St Andrews Castle. The best parts for kids are the underground bottle dungeon, which is carved out of rock, and the dark, narrow tunnel (the mine and counter-mine) dug during a 16th-century siege. These features are very atmospheric and bring history to life in a way that truly interests young minds.

The East Neuk Trail: Exploring the Charm of Coastal Fife

Our East Neuk villages—Crail, Pittenweem, St Monans, and Elie—are what make this corner of Fife so unique. They are perfect places for a slow, relaxed staycation. You can easily spend a whole day simply walking between two villages and stopping for treats.

Things to do with kids Fife: St Fillan's Cave

Pittenweem is famous for its busy harbour and fish market, but it holds a great secret for children: St Fillan's Cave. St Fillan was a missionary who supposedly lived and worshipped inside this cave in the 7th century.

It’s mysterious and offers a fun little adventure. You usually need to get the key from the nearby Cocoa Tree Cafe (which is dog-friendly and makes amazing hot chocolate). Going down into the dark, cool cave is a small thrill for any child, and it adds a touch of ancient history to your trip.

Elie's Chain Walk and Seaside Fun

If you have very adventurous, responsible teenagers (and you are comfortable with heights and careful footing), the Elie Chain Walk is a legendary local challenge. It’s a route along the cliffs using fixed chains for assistance. You must check the tides before attempting it.

For a safer, more relaxed family time, Elie and Earlsferry offer a massive, sheltered sandy beach that’s perfect for families. The town itself has the feel of a seaside resort, complete with a lighthouse to walk to.

If you’re seeking more inspiration for planning your East Neuk itinerary and discovering local hidden options, I'd suggest you take a look at our comprehensive guide on Getting Around the East Neuk.

Agricultural Fun and Wildlife Encounters: Things to Do in Fife with Kids

Fife has a rich agricultural heartland that offers excellent, hands-on, and educational days out that are always popular with children, especially in the summer. These spots offer a change of pace from the coastal path and provide great alternative things to do with kids in Fife.

Cairnie Fruit Farm & Mega Maze: Summer Day Out

Cairnie Fruit Farm, near Cupar, is very popular with families. In the summer, you can enjoy 'Pick Your Own' strawberries, raspberries, and other soft fruit—a proper activity that teaches children about food, followed by a delicious treat.

The main attraction is the Mega Maze. Every year, they cut a huge design into a field of tall maize plants, creating a confusing and thrilling challenge that takes an hour or more to complete. It's active, physically engaging, and a fantastic way to spend a few hours.

Beyond the maze, the farm has a dedicated funyard with trampolines, play areas, and a petting zoo area. It’s a superb example of great value for money and a place where kids can truly run free and enjoy the Scottish countryside.

The Scottish Deer Centre: Getting Up Close to Wildlife

For families who love animals, The Scottish Deer Centre near Cupar is a great choice. Covering 55 acres of countryside, it is home to 14 species of deer from around the world, as well as wolves, bears, and other animals.

They offer feeding tours and ranger talks that are engaging for children, teaching them about different species and conservation. The deer park itself is accessible by foot and offers easy, gentle walking suitable for the whole family, including prams. Dogs are welcome on leads in designated areas.

Rainy Day Options: Indoor Things to Do in Fife for Kids

Since we are talking about Scotland, you are likely to get a few days of persistent rain. When the weather is bad, you need reliable, indoor things to do with kids in Fife that will keep everyone entertained.

Deep Sea World: Under the Forth Bridges

Just across the Forth, near North Queensferry, sits Deep Sea World. While technically just outside the Fife border, it’s close enough to be an essential rainy-day choice and a fantastic place to visit with your children.

It has the UK's longest underwater tunnel, where you can walk beneath sharks, rays, and thousands of other fish. This is always a thrilling experience for kids, offering a unique view of marine life. The talks and feeding demonstrations are educational and keep everyone engaged.

Museum Hopping: Anstruther and the Scottish Fisheries Museum

If you want to stay local to the East Neuk, The Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther is a surprisingly interesting place to spend a rainy morning. It’s a beautifully preserved collection of buildings right on the harbour, telling the story of Scotland’s fishing industry.

The displays are engaging, featuring model boats, historic fishing gear, and the original fishing vessels themselves. It provides a real connection to the town’s heritage and is one of the more historical things to do with kids in Fife, especially if you're staying nearby.

For even more ideas on how to enjoy the East Neuk villages during your holiday, especially if you're interested in the local architecture and harbours, check out our guide on The Secret Villages of the East Neuk.

Essential Tips for Staycations

Here are a few final pieces of advice for those of you planning your trip. Knowing the best way to approach your holiday makes all the difference, especially when balancing the needs of children and a dog, while looking for value and great experiences.

The Fife Coastal Path is the main feature of any outdoor holiday here. You don't need to walk all 117 miles! Pick and choose sections based on the children's energy levels. The Anstruther to Crail section, or even a shorter walk from Anstruther to Pittenweem, offers a perfect balance of picturesque views and manageable distance.

Remember the three P’s: Paddles, Picnics, and Patience. Always pack a waterproof blanket, plenty of good snacks, and a change of clothes—the Scottish weather can change fast. And always be patient. Walking is about enjoying the time together, especially with children and dogs involved!

No visit to Fife is complete without a proper fish supper. While everyone knows the famous names, try exploring some of the smaller chippies in villages like Cellardyke or Pittenweem. Part of the fun is finding your own favourite, ordering it “supper style,” and sitting down by the harbour to eat it. This simple, authentic experience is a true highlight among the many things to do in Fife.

This county truly has something for everyone. If you’re planning your trip and need more ideas for where to walk the dog, take a look at our detailed guide on Dog-Friendly Walks in the East Neuk.

I hope you love exploring the Kingdom of Fife as much as my family and I do!

FAQs: Things to Do with Kids Fife

1. Are dogs allowed on the Fife Coastal Path sections around the East Neuk?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome along the entire Fife Coastal Path, including the popular East Neuk sections (like Anstruther to Crail). The path is governed by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. We ask that dogs are kept under control, especially near farm animals or on golf courses, and always ensure you clean up after them.

2. What are the best free or low-cost outdoor activities in Fife for families with young children (under 7)?

For younger children, I recommend Lochore Meadows Country Park (free entry, huge playground, easy walks) or Craigtoun Country Park (free entry, gardens, affordable seasonal train rides and boats). Both offer expansive, safe areas to run around, and you can pack a picnic to keep costs low. Beaches like West Sands in St Andrews are also free and offer endless fun.

3. During peak summer season, where can we guarantee seeing puffins near Anstruther?

The most reliable place to see puffins is on the Isle of May, which is a short boat trip from Anstruther harbour. Puffins breed there between April and mid-August, and they are usually present in large numbers. If you're travelling in late summer (after mid-August), they will have left, so always check the specific season before booking your trip.

4. What is the nearest hands-on, educational attraction in Fife that works well on a rainy day?

For a great educational and fun rainy-day activity near the East Neuk, I'd suggest the Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther. It’s very interactive and gives kids a real appreciation for the local seafaring history. If you're willing to travel further, Deep Sea World at North Queensferry is an excellent choice, as it's entirely indoors and offers a thrilling underwater experience.

5. My child is interested in geology; are there any specific trail sections or spots where we can see interesting rock formations?

Yes, absolutely! The coastline around the East Neuk is a geological hotspot. If you walk the Crail to Anstruther section of the Fife Coastal Path, look out for "The Coves"—dramatic cliff formations near Crail. For a specific feature, the volcanic rock formation known as the Rock and Spindle near St Andrews is impressive and easily accessible from the path along the coast from the town harbour.