We get asked a LOT about best places to visit close to Edinburgh or Glasgow. Often, we tell people to go to Fife.
Why? This area is such a magical part of Scotland. Despite its small size, there are so many new adventures and experiences that we uncover every time and there’s really something for everyone.
With Fife Food & Drink Week and St Andrew’s Cocktail Week both taking place in March every year, we went on a journey to make some new memories in one of our favourite places.
Here’s our guide to some hidden treasures you’ll not want to miss when visiting Fife.
Where to eat and drink in Fife
Breakfast & Brunch
It’s fair to say that for such a small part of Scotland, the food on offer here is astounding and there are so many places that are worth seeking out when exploring this area.
Breakfast, coffee and brunch spots are legendary amongst locals and include the amazing Salt & Pine Creperie. Nestled near the edge of Tentsmuir Forest, it serves the most amazing sweet and savoury crepes, best enjoyed after a walk or bike ride along the beach, or in the forest.
For pastries that look too good to choose from there’s Newport Bakery across the water from Dundee (as well as a site in the city itself), or you’ll find a great selection at Bowhouse Market on weekends.
Of course, in the summer months (or quite frankly any time of year) don’t miss the iconic Jannettas Gelataria in St Andrews. Their incredible menu of ice cream flavours would take you at least a month to try.
Lunch & Dinner
For lunch the Pillars of Hercules is a must, an organic market garden that has grown to include a beautiful vegetarian café, farm shop and so much more. Its location is also great for nature walks in the area.
The Ship Inn, overlooking the beach at Elie, is another local favourite – serving up great food in a cosy and relaxed setting. In the summer you can sit outside and even take part in cricket games on the beach.
For special dining experiences, The Newport serves up a delicious four or seven-course tasting menu from Thursday to Sunday in a beautiful setting that overlooks the water. Their statement ‘Humble Onion’ dish is worth the visit alone.
Then there’s MasterChef finalist Dean Banks’s legendary offering in St Andrews, Haar. A real sensory dining experience that spotlights Scotland’s seafood through an incredible storytelling journey of delicious dishes. It’s a truly unique experience we’ve not found anywhere else in Scotland and it’s perfectly suited to any special occasion.
For after dinner drinks in St Andrews, check out the latest wine & cocktail bar on the scene, Dune. Its unique menu of drinks, served with added theatre, will keep the night going long until the early hours.
Unmissable adventures to have in Fife
Maspie Den
Ever wanted to step behind a waterfall? This beautiful circular woodland walk just outside of Falkland is one of the few places where you can do that. It’s a great family friendly walk suitable for all levels.
Elie Seaside Sauna
Wild swimming in Scotland is a must, but it’s easy to get put off by the cold in winter. This sauna right on the beach at Elie can be booked out and lets you go from the cold sea to a beautiful warm view in no time. Elie lighthouse is also close.
Ceres
There are some great seaside towns in Fife and many of them famous with Outlander fans, but Ceres is a real hidden inland gem and home to a great Folk Museum.
Bracken Treehouse
A stay in a secluded cabin high up in the trees with only nature for a neighbour and a bath on your private deck? That’s the magic you’ll find at Airdit and Bracken Treehouse, created by the lovely Nick and Joy. This place really is a sanctuary to pass the days and for total relaxation you can even book a massage or facial to enjoy in the cabin with the lovely Morna.
How to get to and around Fife
The kingdom of Fife lies between the Firth of Forth and the Firth of Tay. The area, which has been shaped by history, industry, and the sea, has many things to see and do that it’s impossible to see everything in one go.
To enjoy a few places in one weekend a car is advisable, however the transport links between most of the towns and cities and Edinburgh or Glasgow are so good that you can still enjoy much of this area via public transport with the right planning.
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If you liked this post, you can also enjoy some of the other guides on the area we’ve written, such as this one on West Fife, and this one on its most popular spots.
You’ll also find all these locations on our map.
If you have any questions about the area or would like any more tips, please let us know in the comments below or get in touch via Instagram (@TravelTwo_).
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