St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh

The East Neuk: Fife’s Hidden Coast

Tucked away on Fife’s southeastern shore, the East Neuk is a often-overlooked corner of Scotland with beautiful historic fishing villages and striking coastal scenery. As we follow the coastal route, you’ll have the chance to photograph Anstruther, which is famous for its fish and chips. Browse the independent shops and coffee houses, stroll along the lovely beach, or watch the working fishing harbour in action and see where your seafood comes from.

From here you can also enjoy superb views towards the Isle of May, a national nature reserve managed by Scottish Natural Heritage. Today it is home to seabirds and seals, but in the past it housed monks and served as a hiding place for smuggled goods. It is an island full of secrets.

Falkland: A Village Where Time Stands Still

Wander the quiet streets of Falkland, a picturesque village that seems untouched by the centuries. ‘Outlander’ fans will recognise it as post-war Inverness, and the Bruce Fountain is where Claire sees Jamie Fraser’s ghost. Browse the craft shops at your leisure, or take the optional visit to Falkland Palace and Gardens*, a royal residence of the Scottish Kings and a favourite retreat of the Stuart dynasty, especially Mary Queen of Scots. Follow in the footsteps of monarchs through the formal gardens, discover the unique willow labyrinth, and see the world’s oldest tennis courts still in use.

St Andrews: The Star of the Tour

St Andrews is the highlight of the day, with plenty of free time to explore this historic seaside town. As the spiritual home of golf, it is a must for devotees of the game, and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club is one of the oldest in the world. On certain days you can even walk the Old Course, or try the famous Himalayas putting course alongside it.

The town is also home to the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world, which began teaching in 1413. It is best known as the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton met as students, and you can walk in their footsteps past the gothic splendour of St Salvator’s Quad and Chapel.

Explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, founded in 1158 and once the largest in Scotland, and climb the 33-metre St Rule’s Tower for sweeping views over the town and across Fife. Nearby, St Andrews Castle brings its turbulent 450-year history and medieval siege warfare to life. Walk along Castle Sands for a view of the ruins from below, stroll the pier for a panorama of the town, and look out for West Sands, which you may recognise from ‘Chariots of Fire’. Families will enjoy the aquarium, home to meerkats, penguins, sharks and over 100 species of fish, and there are plenty of cafes and shops along the ancient cobbled streets.