FIFE & ST. ANDREWS
The Kingdom of Fife is a land of royal history, world-renowned golf, and a spectacular coastline dotted with charming fishing villages. It blends the scholarly gravitas of St Andrews with the ancient heritage of Dunfermline.
This region is the birthplace of Scotland’s most enduring sport and its oldest university. It is a coastal haven of medieval ruins, historic palaces, and the wild, bracing beauty of the North Sea shore.
Most Popular Attractions
St Andrews History & University:
- St Andrews Cathedral & St Rule’s Tower: The evocative ruins of what was once Scotland’s largest medieval church. Climb the tower for panoramic views.
- St Andrews Castle: Dramatic ruins perched on a headland, featuring a ‘mine and counter-mine’ tunnel system and a ‘bottle dungeon.’
- University of St Andrews: Scotland’s oldest university, famous for its historic colleges, medieval streets, and beautiful architecture.
- St Salvator’s Chapel: A key part of the University, known for its beautiful architecture and historic significance.
- Wardlaw Museum: The University of St Andrews’ museum, showcasing collections of art, history, and science.
- The R&A World Golf Museum: A modern museum dedicated to the history of the sport, located near the Old Course.
St Andrews Town & Coast:
- The Old Course: The world’s oldest and most iconic golf course, a pilgrimage site for golfers.
- Swilcan Bridge: The small stone bridge on the 18th hole of the Old Course, famous for photo opportunities.
- West Sands Beach: A stunning stretch of sand, famous as the setting for the opening scene of the film Chariots of Fire.
- East Sands Beach & Harbour: A picturesque working harbour and smaller beach, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
- Jannetta’s Gelateria: A St Andrews institution, famous for its huge array of traditional Italian ice cream flavours.
- The East Neuk of Fife & Coastal Attractions East Neuk Fishing Villages:
- Anstruther: Home to the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar and the departure point for boat trips to the Isle of May.
- Crail: A beautiful harbour village known for its cobbled streets, pantiled roofs, and Crail Pottery.
- Pittenweem: A picturesque working fishing village with a small harbour and historic Pittenweem Priory.
- St Monans: Features a stunning medieval church built almost on the sea’s edge and a historic windmill.
- Elie & Earlsferry: Twin coastal villages known for their sandy beaches, Elie Ness Lighthouse, and the challenging Elie Chain Walk.
- Isle of May National Nature Reserve: A sanctuary for seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and seals (accessible by boat from Anstruther).
Fife Coast & Walking:
- Fife Coastal Path: A long-distance walking route (117 miles) connecting coastal towns and offering stunning sea views.
- Kingsbarns Distillery & Visitor Centre: A modern Lowland whisky distillery offering tours and tastings.
- Fife Inland & Historic Centres Historic Towns & Palaces:
- Dunfermline Abbey & Palace: The final resting place of Scottish royalty, including Robert the Bruce, and the ruins of a former Royal Palace.
- Falkland Palace & Garden: A Renaissance palace and former country residence of the Stuart monarchs, a favourite of Mary, Queen of Scots.
- Culross: A beautifully preserved 17th and 18th-century royal burgh, famous for its cobbled streets and the ochre-coloured Culross Palace.
- Scotland’s Secret Bunker: A massive underground nuclear command centre, hidden beneath a farmhouse and now a museum.
- Loch Leven: A stunning loch and National Nature Reserve, featuring Lochleven Castle on an island, where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned.
- The Scottish Deer Centre: A wildlife park near Cupar focused on various species of deer and other animals.
Activities & Experiences
Walk the St Andrews Old Course: When no play is scheduled (typically on Sundays and occasionally on other evenings), you can freely walk the hallowed fairways of the Old Course at St Andrews, the “Home of Golf.”
Explore St Andrews Castle & Cathedral: Wander through the atmospheric ruins of St Andrews Castle, famous for its siege tunnels, and the majestic remains of St Andrews Cathedral, once the largest in Scotland.
Hike a Section of the Fife Coastal Path: Lace up your boots for a stunning walk, particularly the stretch connecting the charming East Neuk fishing villages like Anstruther, Crail, and Pittenweem.
Visit Falkland Palace: Explore this beautiful Renaissance palace, a favourite retreat of Mary, Queen of Scots, and a filming location for the Outlander TV series.
Take a Boat Trip to the Isle of May: Book a ferry from Anstruther to this National Nature Reserve to see puffins, seals, and other incredible seabirds, especially during the breeding season (April to July).
Go Golfing at a Hidden Gem: Beyond the famous courses, Fife has over 40 courses. Book a round at one of the beautiful links courses like Lundin Links or Elie for a classic Scottish golf experience.
Learn to Make Local Crafts: Visit a pottery workshop or a textile studio in one of the East Neuk villages to take a class in a traditional Scottish craft.
Go on a Fish and Chips Crawl: Sample the famous award-winning fish and chips from the renowned Anstruther Fish Bar or one of the many excellent spots along the coast.
Enjoy a Beach Day at West Sands: Walk, run, or simply enjoy the vast, iconic expanse of West Sands Beach in St Andrews, made famous by the opening scene of the movie Chariots of Fire.
Discover Dunfermline Abbey and Palace: Explore the final resting place of Robert the Bruce and the birthplace of King Charles I in the historic royal burgh of Dunfermline.
Take a University Walking Tour: Explore the historic buildings and quaint quads of the University of St Andrews, one of the oldest universities in the world.
Sample Local Whisky and Gin: Visit a local distillery, such as the Eden Mill Distillery near St Andrews, for a tour and tasting of locally produced spirits.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for the Region: While St Andrews is walkable, a car gives you the freedom to explore the wider Kingdom of Fife, particularly the small fishing villages of the East Neuk and the inland historic sites. Driving is on the left.
Public Transport: Fife has an extensive bus network operated primarily by Stagecoach.
Buses: Buses connect St Andrews to the East Neuk villages, Cupar, and major cities like Dundee and Edinburgh. The Stagecoach App is helpful for checking times and buying tickets.
Trains: The closest major train station to St Andrews is in Leuchars (about a 10-15 minute bus or taxi ride away). Leuchars is on the main East Coast line, with direct services to Edinburgh and London.
Within St Andrews:
Walking is Key: St Andrews is a compact town. The castle, cathedral, university, and main shopping streets are all easily accessible on foot.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in St Andrews, especially near the Old Course and the main streets, but booking ahead for trips to smaller villages is recommended.
From the Airport: The best airport to fly into is Edinburgh (EDI). From there, you can take an airport bus or tram to Edinburgh Waverley station and a train to Leuchars, followed by a short taxi or bus to St Andrews. Alternatively, a pre-booked airport transfer is a hassle-free option.
The Golfing Schedule: If you want to walk the Old Course, check the official St Andrews Links website for the maintenance schedule; most walks are restricted to Sundays. To play, you must enter the Old Course Ballot (lottery) 48 hours in advance, or book a package a year or more ahead.
The East Neuk Charm: When visiting the East Neuk villages (Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, etc.), embrace the small-town pace. Many shops and cafes have limited hours, especially outside the main summer season.
Don’t Fear the Weather: Scottish weather is famously changeable. Always pack layers—a waterproof jacket, a warm jumper, and a good scarf—even in summer. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a brisk afternoon.
Dining Times: Dinner tends to be earlier than in Spain, with many popular pubs and restaurants taking last orders between 8 PM and 9 PM, particularly in smaller towns. Lunch is usually between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM.
Local Cuisine to Try:
Fish and Chips: Often served with “salt and sauce” (salt and a vinegary brown sauce unique to the region).
Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties: Scotland’s national dish (savoury pudding with turnip and potato). Don’t be shy; it’s delicious!
St Andrew’s Farmhouse Cheese: Look for locally made cheeses from the St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company.
Hidden Gems:
Kingsbarns Beach: A less-crowded, beautiful sandy beach south of St Andrews, perfect for a quiet walk or a picnic.
The Scottish Fisheries Museum (Anstruther): A fascinating museum detailing the history of the Scottish fishing industry, located right on the harbour in Anstruther.
Elie Ness Lighthouse: Walk to this beautiful, squat lighthouse near the village of Elie for fantastic views along the coast.
The Pends: A stunning, often-missed medieval archway that leads from the town into the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral. It makes for incredible photos.
The Scots Language: While English is spoken, you’ll hear many Scottish words and phrases. Don’t be surprised if you hear a “Wee” (small) or a “Ken” (know) thrown into conversation. A friendly “Cheers” (thank you) will always be appreciated!
Top Restaurants
The Jigger Inn [$25-$40] – Located near the Old Course, this historic pub, housed in a former stationmaster’s lodge, offers a cozy atmosphere, traditional pub grub like fish and chips, and a superb selection of Scottish beers and whiskies.
Forgan’s St Andrews [$30-$50] – A lively, rustic-chic venue in a former golf club factory, offering contemporary Scottish dishes, cocktails, and often hosting live music and ceilidhs (traditional Gaelic social gatherings).
Hams Hame Pub & Grill [$30-$50] – Situated beneath the iconic Hamilton Grand, just a stone’s throw from the Old Course, this spot offers a relaxed pub atmosphere with a menu focused on Scottish pub classics and grills.
The Criterion [$15-$30] – A traditional Scottish bar in the heart of St Andrews, famous for its excellent pies, an extensive drink selection, and welcoming Scottish hospitality.
The Bothy St Andrews [$25-$45] – A vibrant bistro in the heart of St Andrews focusing on locally sourced dishes and Scottish classics in a contemporary and welcoming setting.
The Cottage Kitchen [$15-$30] – A small, charming café/restaurant in St Andrews known for its cosy atmosphere and offering a menu of fresh, homemade options, including soups, sandwiches, and classic Scottish desserts.
Kinneuchar Inn [$40-$70] – Located in the village of Kilconquhar, this 17th-century pub and restaurant, awarded Best Local Restaurant in Scotland 2023 by The Good Food Guide, champions local food with a daily changing menu from the Balcaskie Estate.
The Boar’s Head [$25-$40] – A cosy, traditional country pub and restaurant in Auchtermuchty known for honest, locally sourced, and delicious food, including traditional pub favourites with a modern twist.
The Crusoe [$25-$45] – Set right on the harbour in Lower Largo, this venue focuses on local and Scottish produce, including beef from Fife farmers and East Neuk Coast lobster, in a lovely seaside setting.
West End Bar [$20-$35] – A warm, dog-friendly pub in Pittenweem, known for its cosy atmosphere with an open fire and a menu of home-cooked dishes using seasonal Fife produce, especially seafood.
The Tailend Restaurant and Fish Bar [$20-$40] – Highly regarded for its fresh seafood and arguably the best fish and chips in St Andrews, offering both a casual fish bar and a more formal restaurant dining experience.
Balgove Larder’s Steak Barn [$40-$60] – Located just outside St Andrews, this unique venue (a converted sawmill) focuses on meat prepared in their own butchery and cooked to order on a massive wood-fired BBQ, with excellent non-meat options too.
The Grange Inn [$40-$60] – A modern Scottish restaurant set in a beautifully converted 17th-century farmhouse just outside St Andrews, offering a superb menu using the freshest local produce for both lunch and dinner.
The Adamson [$50-$80] – A popular, trendy brasserie in St Andrews, housed in the former home of a famous photographer, offering classic dishes made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Rogue St Andrews [$40-$70] – A sophisticated and intimate dining spot hidden away at the end of South Street, priding itself on seasonal and sustainable Scottish seafood and dry-aged beef within a classic cocktail bar setting.
The Saint Bar & Kitchen [$30-$50] – Formerly a local favorite, this revamped spot offers a modern, swanky interior and serves locally sourced, quality bar dining with a good selection of drinks in St Andrews.
Dune [$35-$60] – A newer St Andrews eatery with a stunning loft-style interior, offering a wonderful, modern dining experience just a few streets back from the main center.
Mitchell [$20-$40] – A well-loved spot in the heart of St Andrews, known for its mouth-watering sandwiches and homemade soups during the day, as well as a beautiful space with a lively vibe for more substantial meals.
Jack ‘O’ Bryan’s [$40-$70] – Located in Dunfermline, this restaurant is passionate about fusing the natural Scottish larder and its waters with other fine ingredients to create an eclectic menu that is both contemporary and traditional
The Peat Inn [$90-$150] – Located outside St Andrews, this is one of Scotland’s most enchanting Michelin-starred restaurants, offering elegant, modern Scottish cuisine at the highest level, using the finest seasonal ingredients.
Haar Restaurant & Rooms [$100-$180] – A relaxed fine-dining restaurant in St Andrews by award-winning chef Dean Banks, known for its experimental and exciting tasting menu focused heavily on local and sustainable seafood.
The Seafood Ristorante [$80-$130] – Perhaps St Andrews’ most dramatically located restaurant, this stunning glass oblong overlooks the sea, serving an exquisite, seasonal menu of locally sourced, sustainable seafood.
18 Restaurant at Rusacks St Andrews [$70-$120] – A destination rooftop restaurant serving the best seasonal and locally sourced Scottish beef, seafood, and game, all with breathtaking views over the iconic Old Course.
Craig Millar @ 16 West End [$70-$120] – A 2AA Rosette gem in the picturesque East Neuk fishing village of St. Monans, offering modern, Scottish cuisine focused on the freshest, seasonal, and local produce right on the waterfront.
Road Hole Restaurant [$70-$120] – The 3 AA awarded fine dining experience at the Old Course Hotel, offering sprawling views and a menu focused on the very best of Scottish seafood and grills.
The Grande at Dean Park [$60-$90] – A 2AA Rosette restaurant in Kirkcaldy, offering contemporary fine dining with menus that fuse traditional cuisine with a modern flair using carefully sourced local, seasonal ingredients.
BlackHorn Burgers [$15-$25] – A popular, non-touristy burger joint in St Andrews that has generated buzz for its excellent, hearty burgers, which are worth experiencing.
Janettas Gelateria [$5-$15] – An absolute St Andrews institution and a must-visit for its homemade ice cream, offering a massive variety of flavours.
Northpoint Café [$10-$20] – A popular café in St Andrews, famous (non-officially) for being a spot where Prince William and Kate Middleton used to frequent, offering a relaxed environment for coffee, cake, and casual food.
The Cheesy Toast Shack [$10-$20] – A beloved spot for a quick, comforting bite, known for its gourmet cheesy toasties, often found at a location near the beach.
Swilcan Loft [$40-$70] – Located at the Old Course Hotel, this brasserie offers a more relaxed vibe than the Road Hole Restaurant, with an eclectic international menu created with locally sourced Scottish produce and stunning views.
Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant [$30-$50] – A first-rate local Indian restaurant in St Andrews, known for its authentic cuisine, super-attentive service, and being a favourite among locals and visiting celebrities.
Bistro du Vin [$40-$60] – The focal point of the Hotel du Vin in St Andrews, this bistro offers a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere with a classic, French-styled menu that includes a touch of British elegance.
La Cucina [$35-$55] – Located at the Fairmont St Andrews, this restaurant captures the charm of a traditional Italian restaurant with a contemporary twist, offering a relaxed and informal dining setting with quality cuisine.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Adamson: Located right in the heart of St Andrews on South Street, this two-AA Rosette restaurant also features a prominent cocktail bar. It merges historic setting with a sophisticated, contemporary look, offering a range of classic and innovative cocktails.
Rogue St Andrews: A “hidden gem” found near the end of South Street in St Andrews, this venue has an intimate, elegant atmosphere. While known for its seafood and dry-aged beef, it boasts a classic cocktail bar and even distils its own ‘Felons Gin’ on the premises.
Kittocks Bar (Fairmont St Andrews): Nestled within the stunning Fairmont St Andrews resort on the outskirts of town, this bar offers a blend of modern elegance and rustic charm. It’s renowned for its exceptional drinks menu, which highlights Scotland’s rich distilling heritage with late-night drinks service.
The Saint Bar & Kitchen: Situated on South Street in St Andrews (in the building formerly known as The West Port), this recently renovated venue offers cosy, modern lounge areas. The knowledgeable bar team serves a wide selection of drinks, including cocktails, in a friendly, local atmosphere.
The Rule St Andrews: A popular craft beer and cocktail spot on South Street, this pub transitions from a family-friendly eatery by day to a lively venue at night. It offers an extensive drinks menu, including a variety of cocktails, and features a beer garden.
Jack ‘O’ Bryan’s (Dunfermline): A bar and kitchen located on Chalmers Street in Dunfermline, this establishment offers a pre-supper cocktail experience with an emphasis on using Scotland’s natural larder alongside international influences.
The Old Inn (Dunfermline): Dunfermline’s oldest public house, situated in the city centre near the Abbey and Town Clock. The upstairs lounge offers a relaxed vibe to enjoy a cocktail or craft beer in the evenings, separate from the main bar’s focus on live sport.
Cafe Continental (Kirkcaldy): A long-standing, centrally located bar and restaurant in Kirkcaldy (known as “The Lang Toun”). It’s a great spot for enjoying a drink and has an outside dining area for those sunny Fife days.
The Vic (St Andrews): A popular bar on Market Street known for its relaxed daytime vibe and transition into a more lively spot as the evening progresses, serving up a range of cocktails, craft beer, and other drinks.
The Niblick Restaurant & Bar: Found in St Andrews, offering wonderful views overlooking the iconic Old Course and famous West Sands Beach. This venue is a relaxed spot for a drink, including classic cocktails, after a round of golf or a beach walk.
Jute (Dundee – Nearby): While technically in Dundee, its proximity makes it a worthwhile mention. Better known as the bar at Dundee Contemporary Arts, it attracts an art-house crowd for European beers, wine, and cocktails.
Draffens (Dundee – Nearby): Also just outside Fife, secreted down a wynd (alley) in Dundee, this small speakeasy features stylish, exposed-brick interiors and a serious commitment to cocktail shaking in a Prohibition-era style.
The Jigger Inn (St Andrews): Located near the Old Course, this is a quintessential Scottish pub known for its traditional beer garden and excellent selection of beers. While a pub, it’s a must-visit in the home of golf for a pre-or-post-round drink.
Fabric (Dunfermline): A venue in the heart of Dunfermline’s heritage quarter, offering both indoor and outdoor space for enjoying al fresco drinks and dining, with a focus on a modern bar experience.
Central Bar (St Andrews): A traditional, wood-and-leather furnished haunt on Market Street, offering a friendly atmosphere and a good range of bottled and on-tap beers. A classic pub that is a friendly alternative to the flashier cocktail bars.
St Andrews Brewing Company: A popular, buzzy favourite of students and locals on South Street, with a rustic, relaxed beer-hall vibe. While focused on their own craft beers on tap, they also serve a selection of gins and malts.
Club 601 and StAge: The largest and arguably most popular place to party in St Andrews, housed within the Students’ Union. It hosts weekly club nights on Wednesday and Friday with DJs playing a mix of popular music. It’s a high-capacity venue often split into two areas.
The Vic Club: Located upstairs from The Vic bar on Market Street in St Andrews. This dedicated club space is open on weekend nights, featuring the best DJs in the North who spin everything from electronic beats to “cheese anthems.”
Life Bar & Club (Dunfermline): Situated in the heart of Dunfermline near the Abbey, this established “Bar-Club” boasts four different rooms, two dance floors, and four bars, each with a unique ambiance to suit varied tastes.
The Rule St Andrews (Late): While also a bar and kitchen, The Rule on South Street in St Andrews transitions into a club atmosphere as the lights dim and the music goes up, featuring an extensive drinks menu and local DJs until the early hours.
Life Bar (Dunfermline – Bar Section): The street-level bar section of the Life venue serves as a stylish pre-club destination or a lively bar in its own right, before the dedicated club floors open up for dancing.
The Old Inn (Dunfermline – Late): The downstairs main bar, while showing live sport, often maintains a vibrant atmosphere late into the evening, especially on weekends, serving as a social hub in the city centre.
The Saint Bar (St Andrews – Late): The bar area can maintain a lively, late-night atmosphere, serving as a popular student and local social spot with music and cocktails.
The Old Vic (St Andrews): The downstairs section of The Vic on Market Street maintains a high-energy bar and pre-club atmosphere before guests move upstairs to the dedicated club space.
Cafe Continental (Kirkcaldy – Late): This Kirkcaldy spot is known to have a lively atmosphere, particularly on weekend evenings, serving as a key social destination in the town’s nightlife.
Fabric (Dunfermline – Late): The venue in Dunfermline’s heritage quarter is a popular spot that can become a high-energy late-night bar, offering a mix of drinks and music.