Fife

The ancient Kingdom of Fife is said to have been described by King James VI of Scotland as ‘a beggar’s mantle fringed wi’ gold’, the ragged shoreline being the frayed cloak from which the begging hand of Fife is held out in the 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 200km of rugged coastline dotted with picturesque 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 rolling Lomond and Ochil Hills.