Fife: Warm welcome guaranteed on the jewel of the east coast

YOU could argue that it’s only in more recent years that Fife has come into its own and started to realise its potential as a great place for a break.

We can only say: what took you so long, Fife?

From historic Culross nestled next to Kincardine Bridge, to the picturesque villages, beaches and countryside of the East Neuk, it has so much to offer.

And there’s no better way of seeing it than taking a stroll along the Coastal Path on a sunny day.

It stretches 117 miles from the Firth of Forth to the Firth of Tay – not that we’re suggesting you have to walk the whole route!

We’re happy to say there are many stopping-off points along the way – a chance to take the weight off your feet, enjoy some stunning scenery and the chance for a blether.

You’ll be assured of a warm welcome, too, thanks to around 50 Welcome Ports dotted along the way, providing assistance.

The coastal areas are an essential visit. Just watching the comings and goings at Anstruther harbour, pictured above, is a perfect way to while away the day.

But further inland has lots to offer, too. A drive through central Fife, with its stretching fields of gold and green laid out before you, is hard to beat.

And there are so many stop-off points that are perfect for pottering.

How about fine Falkland, with its whitewashed cottages and the Lomond Hills rising in the distance?

Or bustling Cupar, where you’ll find a town centre with plenty of independent shops, cafes and pubs?

Fife isn’t all just countryside and quaint, though.

St Andrews has all the benefits of a city and none of the drawbacks. It’s little wonder that tourists from all over the world flock to it.

From a walk along St Andrews Links – wonderful whether you’re a golfer or not – to the lovely Byre Theatre, pubs and cafes, there’s always something going on.

And if you fancy treating yourself to a little something, it’s got some gorgeous gift shops where you’ll find yourself tempted by all manner of loveliness. Go on, you deserve it!

Fancy a trip to the cinema? How does a bacon roll before an early showing grab you?

Then check out what’s on at Kirkcaldy’s Adam Smith Theatre. They often have 11am showings of movies – and the cafe bar is open beforehand for breakfast goodies.

That’s Fife.