Free Things to do in Fife

We really are spoiled for choice in our corner of beautiful Scotland when it comes to things to see and do; from nature trails, beaches, adrenalin activities, history and museums, and you don’t have to spend a fortune! Here is our pick of the best free attractions and things to do in Fife.

Free Outdoor Activities

Go off the beaten track at Devilla Forest to discover the natural habitat of our native red squirrels. A wonderful place to walk or cycle. There are trails and paths for all ages and abilities, and promises to captivate your imagination; there are legends and stories of witchcraft, monuments to Macbeth, gravestones from plague victims dating 1645, and ruins of a WW2 explosives research station.

A person walking along a rock face with a chain attached to it

Challenge yourself to the Elie Chain Walk, one of Scotland’s best-kept coastal secrets. Chains are built into a section of the cliff west of Elie village, spanning half a kilometre and making for a unique scramble! Please remember to check the tides though, or you may have to swim across an open cave! (we may know this from personal experience… ahem!)

Free attractions

Discover the story behind Scotland’s first university at the Museum of the University of St Andrews (MUSA), which boasts collections covering a wide range of subjects and exhibitions showcasing some antique treasures from the 600-year old university. The museum has four galleries, a Learning Loft and a viewing platform with panoramic views over the bay of St Andrews – well worth a visit. Visit the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum in Dunfermline and learn about the ‘father of modern philanthropy’, who emigrated to America with only a few possessions and became the richest man in the world. There are state-of-the-art interactive games, displays and demonstrations sure to be a hit with all the family.

Free places to go

Get your binoculars out and get along to Fife Ness Muir, near Crail, which attracts over 150 species of both migratory and breeding birdlife every year. Carefully placed seating ensures that, whichever season you visit in, you’ll be able to enjoy observing without disturbing the birds. Forest, beach and nature reserve all in one? With everything from roe deer to red squirrels, the Tentsmure National Nature Reserve is a great place to get back to nature. Walk along the beach and you might be lucky enough to see hundreds of seals basking on the sandbanks. This is by far our favourite beach in the UK, no matter the weather it always feels like a special, peaceful place to visit.

With all this history and adventure to explore for free, then Elderburn Lodges seem the perfect selection for a family getaway. Experience all the adventure that Fife has to offer during the day, then retreat back to your luxury lodge and spend the evening in private, using all our luxuries to your advantage.