Explore the historic Kingdom of Fife, a fiercely proud county in Scotland located on the northern side of the Firth of Forth. Picturesque university towns, world-famous golf courses, scenic walking trails and inspiring historical attractions characterize this compact corner of the country.
Plan a route into Fife that takes you across the stunning Forth Rail Bridge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its geometrical red iron girders. Stop by Deep Sea World, a popular aquarium with an adjoining seal harbor that lies in North Queensferry, situated next to the famous bridge.
From there, travel into Dunfermline, a town that was once the capital of Scotland. Visit the burial site of Robert the Bruce and 11 other Scottish royals in Dunfermline Abbey, a stunning 12th-century church.
Mingle with students in the picturesque university town of St. Andrews. Stroll along the stunning beach and down medieval streets. St. Andrew’s Cathedral offers the best views of the town from the top of the 12th-century St. Rule’s Tower.
St. Andrews is one of the best destinations for golf in Fife, a county known as the “Home of Golf.” Tee off at the Old Course, which is one of the most famous golfing destinations in the world and open to all visitors. Other world-famous courses in the county include Ladybank, Burntisland and Lundin.
Lace up your hiking boots and walk the Fife Coastal Path, a 117-mile (188-kilometer) trail that follows the region’s stunning coastline. Take a break to eat fish and chips in towns such as Anstruther and East Neuk.
Seek out the historical attractions of Fife. Aberdour Castle is now a set of dramatic ruins, but destinations such as Culross Palace and Falkland Palace – seen in shows such as Outlander – remain beautifully preserved.
Take a diversion to the Isle of May, a sanctuary for puffins. Boats run from Anstruther and take visitors up close to these charming sea birds while you hear tales of Vikings and smugglers.
Trains run regularly from Edinburgh into Fife, making it an easily accessible destination from Scotland’s capital. Come in summer for the best chance of sun.