Are these the cosiest pubs along the Fife coastal path?
Nothing beats warming up after a bracing walk along the Fife Coastal Path in a cosy pub.
So Food from Fife has put together five suggestions of cosy pubs serving delicious food and drink.
St Andrews Brewing Company, Cambo Sands to Leuchars.
One of Fife’s finest brewers, St Andrews Brewing Company was one of the first on the scene of today’s craft beer scene. And when it comes to their St Andrews pub, local is at the heart of everything they do.
They source the best local ingredients to be used in the food and drink they serve, such as Leuchars butcher’s burgers, or Fisher & Donaldson’s delicious bread. Operating since 2013, they have community at their heart, making it the perfect place to visit when immersing yourself in Fife.
Their original South Street pub is something of an institution and boasts 18 beer and cider taps, including their own special brews. Hungry walkers can be assured that there’s a hearty menu of lunch and dinner dishes to complement them, too.
Bookings and latest menus can be found online, their current indoor opening hours are Monday-Sunday 11.00am-10.30pm.
One Under, St Andrews Cambo Sands to Leuchars.
Another St Andrews gem is the One Under Bar at the newly reopened Rusacks Hotel. This cosy pub sits facing the coastal path at West Sands and the iconic Old Course.
There’s an extensive drinks menu, as well as delicious bespoke cocktails. The traditional pub-food favourites at lunch and dinner come from a kitchen which is headed by Derek Johnstone, a Masterchef: The Professionals winner.
The pub offers live music and entertainment at the weekend and there’s even gin blending sessions available in the hotel with the local Eden Mill distillers.
One Under is open daily 12pm till late, reservations are strongly encouraged.
West End Bar, Pittenweem Elie to Cambo Sands
The West End Bar in Pittenweem is the epitome of a traditional village. Offering a warm welcome, the pub is the perfect place for visitors to warm up after a walk on the coastal path, with an open log fire inside and cosy tartan blankets in the beer garden.
There’s an excellent selection of drinks including locally brewed beers like Ovenstone 109 real ale on draught, Scottish gins, malt whiskies and good wines. Chef-owner, Tim, makes use of Fife’s produce and larder in his home-cooked dishes, keeping provenance and sustainability at the forefront of the menu.
The menu changes with the seasons but often features vegetables from East Neuk Market Garden and seafood from John Imrie in St Monans.
The kitchen remains closed for winter but opens for the spring season.
Bar opening hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 4-11pm, Tuesday: Closed, Friday: 3pm-12am, Saturday: 12.30pm-12am, and Sunday: 3-11pm.
The Crusoe, Lower Largo Buckhaven to Elie
If you’re looking for stunning seaside views, then The Crusoe in Lower Largo is a must-visit.
Named after the village’s connections with the real-life Robinson Crusoe, the Crusoe has a footprint in the bar from Alexander Selkirk, the real-life adventurer who inspired Daniel Defoe’s famous 18th century book.
Nowadays, Chef Ross Traill doesn’t have to travel far to discover a wealth of produce. He takes just 20 steps to the pier to pick up the lobster, crab and mackerel that features on the menu alongside game from the nearby Teasses Estate.
Guests can simply enjoy a drink on the pier looking out to the bay, or head into the bar to enjoy a pint with a delicious lunch.
The pub offers nearby parking and is open Saturday-Sunday 9.30am-11pm, or Monday-Friday 11.30am-11pm.
Bar at Lindores Abbey Distillery, Wormit Bay to Newburgh
The Legacy Bar at Lindores Abbey distillery is a truly majestic location to enjoy a dram or two. With stunning views over the Fife Coastal Path and the River Tay, the distillery is based on the site of Lindores Abbey.
The earliest references to the production of whisky relate to this 12th century abbey and so it’s apt that whisky distilling has returned here.
There is the opportunity to book whisky tastings in the bar and enjoy cheese, charcuterie, or vegan platters or even a luxury seafood hampers alongside. Dinners and afternoon teas are also available.
Winter opening hours are in operation until the end of March so call to book before visiting.