The Fife Coastal Path is a stunning long-distance walking or cycling route that links Kincardine in the Firth of Forth to Newburgh in the Firth of Tay. The entire path hugs some of Scotland’s most spectacular coastline, with plenty of opportunities to visit charming villages and fascinating historic sites. Along the route, there are lots of great accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.
Overnight options include everything from campgrounds to luxury hotels and charming B&Bs. In some places, walkers might be overwhelmed with choices, but in many others it can be tricky to find anywhere at all to stay.
This Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Guide is designed to solve just these issues. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of your best options at each of the common stopping points along the route to help you get the most from your walk.
Keep reading to learn more.
In This Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Guide
- Should I reserve my Fife Coastal Path accommodation in advance?
- Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Cost
- Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Directory
Should I Reserve my Fife Coastal Path Accommodation in Advance?
The short answer to this question is yes, it is a good idea to book accommodation for your Fife Coastal Path walk in advance.
Fife can be quite a popular destination during the summer months. Visitors come from all over the UK and worldwide to enjoy the area’s many award-winning beaches, golf courses, and interesting sites.
While you might be able to get by without a reservation in some of the less-visited towns along the route, having made an advance booking will give you peace of mind and assurances that you have a place to rest your head.
We recommend booking your accommodation for the Fife Coastal Path as early as possible. In more popular areas and for weekend reservations, it’s a good idea to make your booking 3-6 months in advance. You’ll probably be able to reserve accommodation for less touristy times and/or places a few weeks in advance.
Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Cost
The cost of accommodation along the Fife Coastal Path varies depending on a number of factors. The time of year has a huge impact on what you can expect to pay, with the summer months of July and August being the most expensive. Additionally, prices vary greatly between basic budget options and more luxurious establishments.
Of course the length of time you plan to walk the Fife Coastal Path in also will influence how much you need to budget for accommodation. Some walkers will complete the route in 5-6 days, while other prefer to do it in 8 or more.
Very generally speaking, you can expect average costs of accommodation along the Fife Coastal Path to be within the following ranges:
- B&B/Guesthouse/Hotel: £70+ (per person/per night)
- Bunkhouse/Hostel: £40+ (per person/per night)
- Camping: £10+ (per person/per night)
In our accommodation directory, we’ve provided our recommendations for high-end, mid-range, and budget options at all of the common stopping points along the Fife Coastal Path. We’ve defined those categories as follows:
- High-End: £80+ (per person/per night)
- Mid-Range: £40-80 (per person/per night)
- Budget:<£40 (per person/per night)
Note that not every stop along the walk will feature accommodation that fits neatly into each of the categories above. In those cases we’ve included multiple options in a specific price point based on what is available.
Fife Coastal Path Accommodation Directory
Edinburgh
Since there’s no formal accommodation in the small village of Kincardine, many walkers prefer to stay in Edinburgh the night before their trek. In the morning, you can hop on a bus or train from Waverly Station to get to the Kincardine Bridge, the official start of the Fife Coastal Path. We’ve recommended accommodation that is close to Waverly to make your transit a bit easier.
High-End: The Balmoral Hotel
Start or end your trip in style at this historic hotel. Located on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street and just steps from Waverly Station, the Balmoral Hotel mixes luxury with convenience to provide an unforgettable experience. Prepare your muscles for a long walk by enjoying the sauna and Turkish steam room or fuel up in one of the hotel’s fine restaurants.
Mid-Range: Cairn Hotel & Apartments
This clean and attractive hotel is set on a quiet street just fifteen minutes’ walk from Waverly Station. The generously-sized rooms come in handy for organizing walking gear, and the friendly staff are very helpful. Breakfast can be purchased for an additional fee, and there is free wifi throughout the hotel.
Budget: a&o Edinburgh City
If you’re seeking a budget option in central Edinburgh, the a&o hostel is the highest-rated and most convenient option. The location provides easy access to Waverley Station, as well as Princes Street and plenty of other great sites, shops, and restaurants. There are a number of room types and sizes available, and there’s free wifi throughout. The downstairs bar is a great place to enjoy a pint and meet fellow travelers. Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay an addition fee to rent bed linens.
Kincardine Area
Those seeking lodging that is closer to the start of the Fife Coastal Path can stay in nearby Airth (3 miles from the start) or walk the first 4.5 miles of the trail to reach the town of Culross. We’ve described options in both Airth and Culross below.
High-End: Stay Bed & Breakfast (Culross)
Some walkers may prefer to put a few miles behind them before stopping for their first night on the Fife Coastal Path. If that’s the case, the Stay B&B in Culross is the best option. Guests rave about the excellent service, beautiful rooms, and generous breakfast. A night at Stay B&B will leave you feeling pampered and energized for the journey ahead.
Mid-Range: Premier Inn, Falkirk North (Airth)
Located just across the Kincardine Bridge, this no-frills hotel offers cleanliness and convenience at a great value. It’s less than two miles from the official start of the Fife Coastal Path, which makes it one of the closest accommodation options available. Breakfast can be ordered for an additional fee and there is free wifi throughout.
Charlestown/Limekilns/Rosyth
High-End: The Inn at Charlestown (Charlestown)
This excellent 3-star hotel is a luxurious place to recharge after a day of walking. The seaside location boasts beautiful scenery and easy proximity to the Fife Coastal Path. The rooms are clean, spacious, and comfortable. The delicious and hearty breakfast will set you up well for another day on the trail.
Mid-Range: Coorie by the Coast (Limekilns)
This splendid hotel is located directly on the Fife Coastal Path and it is so lovely that you’ll be glad to stop and stay awhile. The airy, well-appointed rooms feature sea views and en suite bathrooms. Downstairs, the cafe serves up top-notch coffees and teas, delectable cakes, and an enticing variety of Scottish fare.
Budget: Gothenburg Hotel (Rosyth)
For those seeking budget accommodations, the Gothenburg Hotel is the best option on this leg of the journey. The hotel offers a variety of room types, all of which are clean and functional. The friendly and helpful staff work hard to ensure that guests feel welcome and comfortable. Guests rave about the delicious Italian meals served up in the hotel’s restaurant.
Burntisland
High-End: Kingswood Hotel
Situated right along the coast and surrounded by two acres of gardens and woodlands, this hotel offers tranquility and relaxation to the weary walker. All of the guest rooms are smart and cozy, but those with private ocean-view balconies are magnificent. The hotel’s restaurant is one of the region’s best fine dining destinations and the complimentary breakfast is immaculate.
Mid-Range: Burntisland House Hotel
Although some of the furnishings could do with an update, this old school hotel makes up for it with friendly service and thoughtful touches. Guests love the smart TV, free tea and coffee, and complimentary toiletries. The Burntisland House Hotel also has a convenient indoor common space with kitchenette and a lovely outdoor terrace. The central location provides good proximity to shops, restaurants, and the Fife Coastal Path.
Kirkcaldy
High-End: The Victoria Hotel
This lovely hotel boasts freshly refurbished rooms while maintaining lots of traditional charm. The comfortable beds and exceptional breakfast will leave walkers feeling rejuvenated and energized for the day ahead. The Victoria gets high reviews for its lovely common spaces and excellent service.
Mid-Range: The Windsor Hotel & Bar
The Windsor offers friendly service and clean rooms at a reasonable price. All of the rooms have private attached bathrooms, kettles, toasters, and free wifi. A simple continental breakfast is provided in the morning. The hotel’s bar is a fun and lively spot, but it can be a bit noisy for those wishing to get to bed on the early side.
Budget: Ashgrove Bed & Breakfast
This friendly, clean, and cozy B&B is a good value in Kirkcaldy. Located close to the town center and the Fife Coastal Path, guests will have convenient access to shops, restaurants, and services. Breakfast is included with your stay.
Leven
High-End: Buckthorn’s House
Buckthorn’s House exemplifies the very best of the Scottish B&B experience. Set in a very quiet location with views of the sea, you’ll feel far away from it all, while still being just a short walk from restaurants and the Fife Coastal Path. The friendly service and a tasty breakfast will prepare you for whatever challenges lie ahead.
Mid-Range: Forth Bay Guest House
Located directly on the seafront and steps from the Fife Coastal Path, the location alone is enough to make this a great accommodation option. As luck would have it, the other aspects of the Forth Bay Guest House are equally as wonderful. Guests love the full Scottish breakfast, waterfront views, and comfortable beds.
Budget: The Caledonian Hotel
When it comes to finding lower cost accommodations in this area, the Caledonian Hotel is the best option. The hotel is located just a short walk from the Fife Coastal Path, as well as several shops and restaurants. Although the rooms could use some updating, they are clean and comfortable nonetheless. The attached restaurant serves up delicious meals all day long.
Elie
High-End: The Ship Inn
For a bit of comfort and indulgence, the Ship Inn will do you right. This beautiful seaside B&B has recently been remodeled with fresh finishes and thoughtful touches. Guests rave about the hearty breakfast, and the location is just steps from the trail.
Kingsbarns
High-End: Cambo House
Get ready to feel like royalty during your stay at Cambo House. This gorgeous 1200 acre estate has been managed by the same family since the 1600’s and the rich history can be felt throughout its manicured gardens and elegant guest rooms. As this is a popular wedding destination, it may be quite difficult to find availability during the summer season. At the time of writing, the establishment was self-catering only, due to pandemic protocols.
Mid-Range: The Inn at Kingsbarns
At the time of writing, this accommodation had a 3-night minimum stay, which would likely be an issue for walkers on a tighter timeline. However, this is a great B&B if you are able to make it work or if the management is able to be flexible with your booking. The Inn provides clean, comfortable rooms with luxurious en suite bathrooms, delicious food, and friendly service.
St Andrews
High-End: Kinnettles Hotel & Spa
After several long days of walking, a bit of luxury might be the perfect way to refresh and rejuvenate for the trail ahead. If that’s the case, Kinnettles is the perfect place to pamper yourself. Guests can enjoy superbly furnished rooms, an excellent restaurant, and a convenient central location. To ease sore muscles, the hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, sauna, and a menu of top-notch spa treatments.
Mid-Range: The Albany St Andrews
This gorgeous historic hotel is well-located near all of the sights in St Andrews, as well as just a short walk from the Fife Coastal Path. Although the rooms are a bit small, they are comfortable, clean, and tastefully decorated. Guests can enjoy great service and delicious food at the on site restaurant.
Budget: Scooniehill Farmhouse B&B
Hikers will need to detour about 1.5 miles to reach this lovely B&B, but the excellent hospitality is well worth the effort. Guests at Scooniehill Farmhouse are treated to complimentary chocolates handmade by one of the owners, as well as a generous breakfast and attentive, friendly service. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and the terrace is a perfect place to enjoy sweeping views of the idyllic Scottish countryside.
Leuchars & Surrounding Area
Mid Range: Shangi-la B&B
The Shangri-la B&B is a fabulous option for those seeking accommodation in the Leuchars area. Although it is located about 1.5 miles from the Fife Coastal Path, it is one of the closest accommodation options to the path in the vicinity, and there is a bus connection available. From the lovely garden to the outstanding breakfast, everything at this B&B is of the highest quality.
Budget: Pinewood Country House
Located about two miles from the Fife Coastal Path (bus connection possible), this is a great budget option in the Leuchars area. Pinewood Country House offers clean and quiet rooms, delicious fresh breakfasts, and a friendly welcome to all of its guests. All rooms have en suite bathrooms, and the cozy lounge is a perfect place to relax after a day on the trail.
Tayport & Wormit Area
High-End: Lillian May B&B (Newport-On-Tay)
If the stunning river views weren’t enough, this exquisite B&B also provides top-notch service and lots of amenities. Located just a short walk from the Fife Coastal Path, Lillian May is a practical stopping point in many walkers’ itineraries. Guests will enjoy the spacious bedrooms, luxurious furnishings, and delicious breakfast. Book well in advance, as there are only two rooms at this small B&B.
Mid-Range: The Old Boathouse (Woodhaven)
Located in the village of Woodhaven between Wormit and Newport-On-Tay, the Old Boathouse is perfectly situated for Fife Coastal Path Walkers. Set in-you guessed it- a renovated boathouse, this unique accommodation serves up plenty of charm and gorgeous riverfront views. Guests appreciate the en suite bathrooms, high-speed internet, and thoughtful breakfast snacks.
Budget: Larick Campsite (Tayport)
If you managed to carry your tent, excellent budget accommodations can be had at the Larick Campsite in Tayport. Surrounded by the Tentsmuir Forest and situated along the coast, a night at the Larick Campsite will leave you feeling closer to nature. At the same time, the hot showers, wifi, nearby cafe, and other modern amenities will ensure that you can enjoy some creature comforts as well.
Abernethy
There is not much accommodation available in the town of Newburgh, the official endpoint of the Fife Coastal Path. Those looking to spend a night in the area before traveling onward will be best served by continuing another hour past Newburgh to the town of Abernethy. Here, walkers will find a few B&B’s, shops, and restaurants.
Mid-Range: The Crees Inn
This excellent bed & breakfast underwent a full renovation when it came under new ownership a few years ago. As a result, the Crees Inn maintains its beautiful historic charm, while also providing fresh, updated, and comfortable amenities. The spotlessly clean rooms include private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free wifi. The restaurant serves up delicious meals all day long.
Mid-Range: Gattaway B&B
Guests can expect a warm welcome and friendly service at this family-run B&B. Set in a beautiful Georgian farmhouse, the atmosphere is relaxing and views from its hillside location are marvelous. The rooms are cozy and full of character, and all rooms have en suite bathrooms. Cap off your stay with a generous and scrumptious breakfast.
Have a Great Trip!
That’s the end of this accommodation guide. We hope you’ve found it helpful in planning for your Fife Coastal Path adventure. Don’t forget to check out our Fife Coastal Path Maps & Routes post for more great resources.
Happy trails!
I have an apartment 1 min from the finishing arch in Newburgh. At the ‘Museum Loft’ I welcome coastal walkers and cyclists.
See http://www.burgherchapel.com