The Isle of May
A trip to the Isle of May is a 'must do'. Timing your visit is important if you want to see the Puffins nesting (May June is best for that) but a visit any time of year is still worthwhile. Aside from the wildlife, walks and views the Isle has a special history of its own and the lighthouses and fog horns are fascinating structures.
There a couple of ways to get there. If you're feeling adventurous, The Osprey RHIB is an option - be prepared to get wet and lose a few fillings if its rough! Or the May Princess offers a more leisurely journey - with on board refreshments if you feel peckish. Either way, if you're lucky you might just get a dolphin escort!
if you ignore the military hardware there now!
a shame about the bed pack!
if you ignore the military hardware there now!
Scotland's Secret Bunker
Harking back to the cold war Scotland's Secret Bunker is a revelation. If you're expecting a small museum, think again. This is the real thing. A fully equipped operational centre buried underground with visual tales of what might have been had the nuclear option been taken!
10 minutes to get there by car
Scottish Fisheries Museum
Overlooking Anstruther Harbour don't be fooled by the modest frontage, this museum is packed with history and things to see,
From small rowing boats to full size trawlers and restoration projects it provides a real insight into the history of fishing in the area and the lives and tribulations of those who have worked on the sea.
The adjoining cafe is good too.
Well worth a visit.
Falkland Palace and Gardens
Dating back to the 16th Century Falkland Palace was commissioned by James IV reputedly to be a 'pleasure palace'(!) and is reported to have been a favoured location by Mary Queen of Scots.
Steeped in history there is plenty to see here, including the oldest 'real tennis' court in Britain.
Falkland village offers a number of shops and tea/coffee haunts. All in all a really pleasant day out - about a 50 minute drive from the apartment.
Kellie Castle
A 10 minute drive from Maeyar, just north of Pittenweem, Kellie Castle is actually a Baronial Home, so don't expect battlements and ramparts.
While it might lack the spectacle and impact of 'real castles' it is nevertheless an interesting and picturesque building and gardens with its own unique and local history which includes a connection with the sculptor Hew Lorimer.
approached from the car park through the woods
approached from the car park through the woods
Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path which runs from North Queensferry to St Andrews is easily accessible from the apartment, a short five minute walk down to Cellardyke Harbour.
At well over 50 miles long it is a great way of exploring the Fife coast and all that it has to offer.
Fife coast and countryside trust walks
Cambo House and Gardens
About 15 minutes drive from the apartment you will find Cambo House and Gardens which include a gift shop, cafe, play area and walks down to the coast through the woodland walk.
Plenty to see and do and a really pleasant place to spend some time.
Dunino
Heading towards St Andrews from Cambo House is the small hamlet of Dunino. From the church car park you will see a path leading down between the graveyards. Follow the path you will find the mystical "holy well". Next to the well is a stone stair which will take you down to Dunino Den.
The site is steeped in history and mythology reflected in a myriad of carvings and markings as well as more recent offerings of ribbons, messages and coins from those who are entranced by what for many is a sacred and mystical site.
The Scottish Deer Centre
Situated near Cupar and a 40 minute drive from Maeyar the Scottish Deer Centre is a lovely family day out. There are numerous deer (obviously!), Elks, wolves and bears with plenty to interest young and old including play areas, ranger tours and birds of prey shows..
You will also find a random Buccaneer aircraft in the park. Apparently the park owner wanted to give it a home when it was decommissioned!
Fife Folk Museum
A 30 minute drive from Maeyar in the historic village of Ceres the Fife Folk Museum offers a window on Fife's past. Admission is free and there is a tea shop on site. A pleasant and informative place to visit.
Visit Scotland - Fife folk museum