A scenic walk from Anstruther. Anstruther is a charming little town in the East Neuk of Fife brimming with history, character, and natural beauty. For those looking for a peaceful escape into nature, a walk from the Dreel Tavern up the Dreel Burn to Cauldcoats Farm and back over the fields is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours.
This walk combines stunning coastal views, the sounds of flowing water, an attractive woodland walk where we spotted goldfinches, blue tits, wrens, a dipper as well as blackbirds and thrushes.
Starting at the Dreel Tavern
Your walk begins at the Dreel Tavern, a local pub that has served the community for centuries. Situated just off the High Street, it’s an excellent starting point for a few reasons. First, it’s steeped in local history—rumour has it that the tavern has been in operation since the 16th century! Whether you’re popping in for a morning coffee or a bite to eat before your walk, the Dreel Tavern sets the tone for a lovely day outdoors.
If this is your first visit to Anstruther make sure to take in the beautiful views of the town and harbour. Anstruther is known for its fishing heritage, and the picturesque harbour (now a yacht marina). The harbour is home to the Scottish Fisheries Museum and the local Lifeboat Station. You can also board the Isle of May Ferry for a day trip to the Isle of May National Nature Reserve.
Following the Dreel Burn
Once you’ve fueled up, it’s time to head out. You will find a signpost for the path at the side of the Dreel Tavern. Follow the path up to the first bridge with the burn on your right. We met a guy looking to photograph a Kingfisher. We didn’t spot any Kingfishers but he assured us they were nesting in the area.
The burn is an integral part of the town’s history and provides the backdrop for the first part of your walk. As you follow the trail alongside the burn, the sound of the flowing water will accompany you, adding a peaceful ambiance to the experience. Spring and summer are particularly beautiful, as the flora comes alive with wildflowers and vibrant greenery. The walk is easy to moderate, making it accessible to most walkers, though a good pair of boots is recommended for navigating some of the muddier sections of the path, especially after rainfall.
The path follows the burn up to a large stone built bridge. This bridge carried the East Neuk railway line on its way to Leven. The line fell victim to the Beeching Cuts and closed on the 6th of September 1965. Very little of the track remains today.
Climb the steps at the side of the bridge up to the cycle path. Take a right and continue out of Anstruther towards fields and open countryside. At the end of the tarmac path you will find steps taking you up and over a humped back bridge over the track of the old railway. Take a right and follow the right of way sign down a farm road with cottages facing you.
At the cottages walk straight on and continue towards another farm track with seats and litter boxes. The farm on the right is Crawhill Farm. Take a left and continue down the path until you come to a row of Poplar Trees on the right. Follow the path through the trees with the burn on your left.
At the end of the row of trees you will come to the first of the newly installed bridges across the burn. Cross the bridge and continue through this attractive woodland walk.
When we initially tried to walk this route in the summer of 2024 the second bridge over the burn had not been installed. However on our return in January 2025 we found the work had been completed. Even in winter we were surprised by the number of different birds we were able to spot from Goldfinches, Blue Tits, Robins, Wrens, and a Dipper feeding on the banks of the burn.
Cross the second bridge and proceed through the wood towards Cauldcoats Farm. Today Cauldcoats is no longer a working farm and is a farm steading with a few recently developed private houses. When you get to the farm steading walk along the side of the large conifer hedge and join the access road toward the main B9131. At the end of the access road take a left and walk along the grass verge toward a lay-by with picnic tables 200 yards on the opposite side of the road. This road can be very busy with traffic so take care.
At the lay-by you will find a farm track taking you out across the fields and back towards Anstruther.
Crossing the fields and heading back to Anstruther
The return journey is equally as lovely, as you’ll be crossing over the fields and open countryside. Depending on the time of year, the landscape might be golden with crops, or lush and green from the pastures.
The fields themselves provide a nice contrast to the burn path and woodland you followed on your way out. The wide open spaces allow for expansive views of Anstruther and the Firth of Forth. Don’t forget to look back and take in the highest point Kellie Law which is the subject of another of our walks in the area.
Kellie Castle and Kellie Law Walk
A Scenic Walk from Anstruther – Returning to Anstruther
As you make your way back to Anstruther, the trail leads you back toward the main A917 and a development of new houses. At the end of the grassy path take a right and walk down the pavement following the road down past the mini roundabout and over the bridge to what is known as the “Buckie House Corner”
The Shell House or Buckie House
Rounding the “Buckie House Corner” at Anstruther. The house is decorated with scallop shells and whelks,(or Buckies). In the mid-1800s it was the home of Alex Batchelor, a well-known local eccentric. Robert Louis Stevenson visited the area with his grandfather at the time when Robert Stevenson was building the lighthouse on the Isle of May.
A Scenic Walk from Anstruther – A Perfect End to the Walk
After the Buckie House it is only a few yards up the road to the Dreel Tavern. It may be time to consider treating yourself to a well-earned meal or drink at the Dreel Tavern or one of the town’s excellent local eateries. The town is known for its seafood, particularly the award winning Anstruther Fish Bar which is located on Shore Street next to the harbour. Also on Shore Street are the Ox & Anchor and The Wee Chippy.
So why not celebrate your adventure with a delicious meal before heading home?
A Scenic Walk from Anstruther – Conclusion
This walk from the Dreel Tavern to Cauldcoats Farm and back is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of the countryside, offering a mix of woodland, streams, open fields, and coastal views. It’s the perfect way to experience the charm of Anstruther and its surrounding countryside. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this route offers something for everyone—from scenic vistas to a chance to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the crowds. So lace up your walking boots, grab a map, and set off on a memorable journey through one of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal corners.
Places to Eat in Anstruther
A Scenic Walk from Anstruther – How to get there
From Crail take the A917 to Anstruther. At the mini round about take a left and at the next mini round about before you come to the Coop Supermarket take another left. You will find a car park where you can park for free all day. The Dreel Tavern is only a short walk back down the road to High Street.
Public transport – Stagecoach 95 is an hourly service with a stop almost outside the Dreel with stops at the harbour.
Thanks to Fife Coast and Countryside Trust for installing the two bridges over the burn and opening up this route for walkers.
Staying at Sandcastle Cottage Crail
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Blog written January 2025