Known for sweeping Highland slopes and serene lochs (some with mythical monsters possibly lurking under the surface), Scotland is a fantastic destination where, according to travel expert Rick Steves, you’ll experience one of the best sightseeing walks in Europe. Beyond the popular cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, however, Scotland’s landscape is scattered with alluring small towns no less majestic than the touristy hotspots. In what was once the ancient and picturesque Scottish coastal kingdom of Fife, just across the Firth of Forth inlet, a quaint fishing village called Pittenweem is nestled cozily around a small harbor. Bordered by dramatic cliffs and rolling meadows with a coastal walking path, traditional brick cottages, and fishing boats bobbing pleasantly in the bay, you will instantly be charmed by a visit to Pittenweem.
The village’s history dates back to the 8th century, when it was supposedly founded by an Irish saint named Fillan. Legend says after arriving in Scotland, Saint Fillan spent several years as a hermit in a cave near Pittenweem, which explains why the village’s name means “place of the caves” in Scottish Gaelic. Today, that legendary grotto is very aptly named Saint Fillan’s Cave and is both a shrine dedicated to the saint’s memory, while also being open to visitors as a tourist site.
Just two hours by local bus from Edinburgh, a stop in Pittenweem is an easy addition to your Scotland itinerary. And though it may seem like a sleepy fishing village, Pittenweem hides a thriving community life. Daily fish markets are a commotion of fishmongers selling their freshest catch, and the annual Pittenweem Art Festival is held at the start of August, a celebration of local talent and the rich heritage of the region.
Fun things to do in Pittenweem
For outdoor enthusiasts, Pittenweem is practically guaranteed to be a good time. The surrounding landscape is known as the East Neuk of Fife, which is famous for its rugged coastlines dotted with a handful of other enchanting fishing villages like Anstruther and St. Monans. Anyone craving a little vigorous exercise should walk along the Fife Coastal Path which passes through Pittenweem. Follow it westwards and you’ll reach St. Monans in about 40 minutes, while heading east will take you to Anstruther in a similar time, traversing craggy cliffs and stunning seaside vistas as you go.
Back in Pittenweem, history fiends should definitely check out Kellie Castle, just a six-minute drive away from town. Managed by National Trust for Scotland, Kellie Castle dates back to the 14th century, with later Victorian additions including intricate plasterwork ceilings and elegant furnishings, plus a fantastic Arts & Crafts style formal garden blooming with roses. Boasting stone turrets, medieval towers, and a crow-stepped roof, you will feel as though you’ve stepped right into the pages of a mysterious Scottish fairytale.
Worth a quick visit is Pittenweem’s parish church, a small but charming edifice with the oldest parts dating to the 13th century. A bell tower with a clock was added in the 1600s, along with further Victorian refurbishments. Nearby is also the ruins of the medieval Priory of Pittenweem, which was used by Benedictine and Augustinian monks, built on top of the entrance to Saint Fillan’s Cave. And after a day filled with sightseeing, spend some time wandering Pittenweem’s picturesque streets to browse some of the charming boutiques and galleries. Don’t miss Seaweed N Stuff, offering a mouthwatering range of natural preserves, chutneys, and homemade ice cream. Or pick up souvenirs at the Weem Gallery, with its selection of pottery, glassware, and original paintings.
Places to eat and stay in Pittenweem
