Tourist Guide for Anstruther in Fife, Scotland
Sightseeing, Local Attractions and Accommodation in Fishing Village
For much of its history Anstruther was a busy port on the east coast of Scotland, which a thriving community grew around. Today it is a picturesque fishing village with many interesting buildings and attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Tourist Attractions
Boat tours operate daily from Anstruther harbour, taking visitors out to the Isle of May, which is popular with a variety of seabirds. Anstruther has also been maintained a lifeboat station since 1865. The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) currently operates two boats from the station. Situated next to the harbour is a multiple award winning fish and chip shop, which can be extremely busy during high season. The harbourfront has a selection of antique shops, craft shops and eateries.
The Scottish Fisheries Museum is also to be found near the harbour and offers a fascinating insight into not only Anstruther’s past but also that of Scotland’s once great industry. A memorial at the museum commemorates all those who lost their lives at sea.
Perhaps Anstruther’s most curious building is Buckie House, which had its outer walls covered in shells by its eccentric owner, Alex Batchelor. He was so enamoured with his handiwork that he also had his coffin covered in shells.
Close to the town is the Secret Bunker, designed as an underground base from which Scotland could be governed in case of nuclear attack. Built during the Cold War it now operates as a mueum. It can be found just off the B940 road.
Activities
For visitors seeking a more active holiday there are a range of activities available both in Anstruther and nearby. Muirhead Farm Stables offers riding lessons, while the East Neuk Outdoor Centre gives visitors the opportunity to try climbing and canoeing. Golfers are also catered for at Anstruther Golf Club.
Anstruther is situated on the scenic Fife Coastal Path, ideal for short walks or long hikes. Also on the path, south of Anstruther, are the nearby fishing villages of Elie, St Monans and Pittenweem. Heading north visitors can walk to Crail and, for the more adventurous, eventually end up in St Andrews.
Accommodation
Anstruther offers an exceptionally wide choice of accommodation. There are traditional hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts. There are also caravan parks, campsites and self-catering chalets, offering something for everyone.
Getting There
By car, Anstruther is around one hour's drive from Edinburgh. There are also frequent buses which connect Anstruther with the rest of Fife, Edinburgh and Glasgow. The nearest train stations are Leuchars and Kirkcaldy.
Anstruther harbour
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