Anstruther to Crail

This is one of the most popular sections of the Fife Coastal Path, linking the largest of the East Neuk fishing ports - Anstruther - with perhaps the most photographed - Crail. The going is straightforward and the views over to the Isle of May and the Bass Rock are excellent.

Terrain

Straightforward walking on the coastal footpath.

Public Transport

Regular bus service links both Anstruther and Crail.

Start

Anstruther harbour. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 6.75km / 4.25 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 52m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NO566036

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Walk Description

Stage 1

Anstruther made its fortune in the herring industry but these days, like the neighbouring villages of the East Neuk - it relies on tourism. It is famous for its fish and chips - the Anstruther Fish Bar has won many awards whilst more recently the Waterfront has challenged its well-known neighbour. Begin the walk by taking James Street from the eastern side of the harbour. When this reaches a t-junction, dog-leg right and left into John Street (almost straight ahead). This is a narrow lane of cottages, with the sea immediately behind those on the right.

Stage 2

John Street emerges at Cellardyke harbour. This unexpected gem, also known as Skinfast Haven, dates back to 1452 and incredibly at one time was one of the most important in all Scotland. These days it is far less known and visited than its neighbours along the Fife Coast, and is all the better for it.

Stage 3

Continue past the cottages beyond and along the tarred road beside a playground to reach a parking area. Pass the static caravans and then finally leave the tarmac behind by heading through a gate and along a grassy coastal path. The path can be slightly muddy at times; it passes close to Caiplie and crosses a drystone dyke via a stone stile. There are excellent views over the Forth to the Isle of May and the Bass Rock. Cross a footbridge and then another stone wall stile.

Stage 4

The path soon passes next to a distinctive rocky formation. On the approach it appears as a low cliff but from the far side it is seen to be split by a whole series of holes into a row of natural arches known as The Coves. The grassy path continues, soon crossing another footbridge and another drystone dyke. Eventually a low cliff forces the path to climb up from the shore towards a fence on the skyline.

Stage 5

The path then forks; take the lower route by the sea once more. Crail is now in view ahead, the cottages tottering down the hill to the harbour. Follow the path up to a wooden gate and along a road of modern detached houses. Part way along, fork right onto a grassy lane the cuts across to meet the main road, and turn right along it.

Stage 6

The bus stop and main street of Crail are directly along the road. However the walk isn't really compete without a visit to Crail Harbour. Look out for a sign marked 'Crail harbour' indicating a path going off to the right. This passes a fine pair of stone houses and then runs down a steep cobbled alleyway to reach the harbour, with some very pretty cottages and a small beach over to the right. You can then return to the main street (for the bus) via the vehicular road from the harbour. The Fife Coastal Path continues on to Fife Ness and Kingsbarns.

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