FIFE COASTAL PATH

Arrive Starting Point: North Queensferry

Just 20mins from Edinburgh by train, North Queensferry is very accessible from the Capital City. Marvel at the views of the Forth Road Bridge before your walking journey begins. Overnight: North Queensferry B&B

North Queensferry to Burntisland - 13 miles

On your first day, the path leads past Deep Sea World to the Carlingnose Wildlife Reserve. You then pass through the town of Inverkeithing and hug the coastline up to St Davids harbour and Downing Point. Great panoramic views can be captured from here and look out for the historic gun emplacements. The path continues past the ruins of St Bridget’s Kirk into Aberdour and then up through the Blue Flag beaches of Burntisland. Overnight—Burntisland B&B /Kinghorn

Burntisland to Leven - 15 miles

From Pettycur Bay in Kinghorn you follow the path up to Kircaldy through areas of volcanic activity from over 300 million years ago. You can see limestone containing marine fossils aswell as basking seals on the rocks if you are lucky. Ravenscraig Castle follows as you reach Dysart where the Harbourmaster’ House lives with its popular bistro and visitors centre. From Dysart, the path climbs over Blair Point to the walled chapel garden which is the private burial ground of the Wymess family. The caves of Wemyss are reached as you head up to the town of Leven. Overnight—Leven B&B

Leven to Elie - 10 miles

From Leven the main route leads to Lunden Links along the glorious sandy beaches. There is an alternative route at high tide up into the sand dunes which are a haven for wild flowers and butterflies. Heading north you can try walking the Elie chainwalk if you are feeling brave before you reach the beautiful little fishing village. Overnight—Elie B&B

Elie to Crail - 11 miles

Passing the lighthouse as you head on up to St Monans on the coastal path and you reach an old Windmill which used to pump seawater into the fossil rich limestone beds below. Heading up to Anstruther you pass the fishing harbour of Pittenweem which is worth a stop for photos. Anstruther is a popular tourist town with daily boat trips to the Isle of May nature reserve where thousands of birdlife can be seen. Heading into Crail you pass through fields with livestock and also an old salmon bothy. Overnight—Crail B&B.

Crail to St Andrews - 14 miles

This day is the toughest days walking and can be very challenging in parts. Once you reach Fife Ness, the most eastern point in Fife, you pass through many golf courses and walk along the stunning shoreline. Make sure and wait for low tide while walking the path to St Andrews. Overnight—St Andrews B&B.

St Andrews to Newport-on-Tay - 18 miles

The path from St Andrews leads up through the town and passes the castle to Guardbridge which is the home to the Eden Estuary Nature Reserve. Look out for cyclists as this path is also the Fife Cycle Way. Crossing the boardwalks into Tentsmuir Forest your journey following the forest up through Tayport and a couple of miles later you reach Newport-on-Tay where your journey ends. Overnight—Newport-on-Tay B&B

Onward travel