Fife

40 Heritage & History Walks

Douglas Milne

‘A beggar’s mantle fringed wi’ gold,’ is how King James VI of Scotland is said to have described the ancient Kingdom of Fife. The ragged shoreline being the frayed cloak from which the begging hand of Fife is held out in hope that the North Sea will provide sustenance. Indeed, the historic peninsula, as well as being home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the former seat of Scotland’s monarchy and the birthplace of golf, has nearly 200 kilometres of rugged coastline dotted with historic ports and quaint fishing villages for walkers to enjoy. Inland, however, there are also plenty of treasures to discover including gentle strolls in wooded nature reserves and country parks, as well as more strenuous hikes in the Lomond and Ochil Hills.