St Andrews and the Fishing Villages of Fife Private Tour - 1 day tour
St Andrews and the Fishing Villages of Fife
One day private tour
This relaxed day trip from Edinburgh explores the best of the Kingdom of Fife, from the scenic fishing villages of the East Neuk to the historic town of St Andrews. Cross the Forth Bridge and travel to Aberdour and through the East Neuk, stopping in Anstruther, a picturesque fishing town. Enjoy generous free time in St Andrews to stroll its medieval streets, explore the ruins of the ancient cathedral and visit the famous Old Course. The return journey features photo stops in Falkland and South Queensferry, to view the Forth Bridges, before heading back to Edinburgh.
Forth Bridges - admire the trio of engineering marvels spanning the Firth of Forth
Anstruther - soak up the atmosphere of this busy fishing port
East Neuk - see the cluster of traditional fishing villages hugging the coast
St Andrews - stroll the streets of this historic university town
Old Course - visit the World’s most famous golf course
Falkland - discover the Outlander connections of this royal town
Movie locations - Outlander, Chariots of Fire and Tommy’s Honour
Full Tour Itinerary
This relaxed day tour from Edinburgh offers a graceful introduction to the Kingdom of Fife, combining coastal scenery, historic villages and generous time in St Andrews.
Leaving the city behind, you cross the Firth of Forth and enter Fife, passing through the seaside town of Aberdour before continuing along the coastline into the picturesque East Neuk.
A stop in Anstruther provides a chance to enjoy the harbour views, before travelling through a string of charming fishing villages including Pittenweem, Crail and St Monans. These small ports historically traded with mainland Europe, and their narrow streets and colourful harbours still reflect this rich maritime past.
Arriving in St Andrews around lunchtime, you’ll have plenty of free time to discover at your own pace. Wander the medieval streets where Prince William first met Kate, visit the ruins of the impressive cathedral, stroll along the coastline, or admire the world-famous Old Course, the spiritual home of golf. With around three hours in town, there’s time to relax, browse the many independent shops, and enjoy lunch in a local pub or café.
The return journey crosses the rolling Lomond Hills to Falkland, a village closely linked to Scotland’s royalty. It was a favoured location for the Stuart Monarchs, who held court at the impressive Renaissance Palace.
Fans of Outlander will find Falkland familiar as the filming location for Inverness in the 1940s and 60s.
From there, the route passes Loch Leven, associated with Mary Queen of Scots, before a final stop in South Queensferry for views of the spectacular Forth bridges, before returning to Edinburgh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on a private one-day tour?
Departing from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness, a private tour is ideal for a group of family or friends.
Our most popular itineraries are available on a private basis, offering you and your party exclusivity, flexibility and comfort. This is a personal experience, so each itinerary can be tailored to your interests.
After booking, you’ll be contacted by your tour co-ordinator, who will discuss your trip and offer options that you may wish to consider to make your tour even more special. Attractions and meals can be pre-booked for a small administration fee. Alternatively, you can pay as you go, depending on how the mood takes you.
On the day of the tour, your experienced driver/guide will pick you up from your accommodation at the pre-agreed time. You’ll travel in a Mercedes-Benz V-Class (or similar) seating up to 7 passengers. These executive-class vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and USB-C charging ports. All you need to do is sit back and relax as your driver handles the driving.
Along the way, you’ll hear the stories behind the landscapes - clan rivalries, Jacobite uprisings, folklore and local legends - bringing the places you visit to life. It’s a relaxed, personal way to experience Scotland, with the reassurance that everything is taken care of.
Can you tell me more about the optional extras on this tour?
To give you complete choice, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour. The tour itinerary has been designed to provide sufficient time for you to visit these attractions:
St Andrews Castle
St Andrews Cathedral (free)
If you click the links above, you will find more information on each attraction, including current admission prices. In some cases, a special discount is offered to tour passengers; your driver/guide will provide details if this applies.
Please note that credit/debit cards are not always accepted, so it is recommended that you carry sufficient cash should you want to visit.
Can you arrange a Private Tour for a larger group?
Yes, we can.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to receive a no-obligation quote.
Are children allowed on a Private Tour?
Yes, unlike a scheduled group tour with a minimum age requirement, children of all ages can enjoy travelling on a private tour. It’s the perfect way for families to travel together and experience Scotland.
Your tour co-ordinator will discuss any specific requirements your young travellers may have, including what age-specific child seats might be required.
What sort of weather can I expect?
Ah, this is the $64,000 question! It may surprise you to know that we have a very temperate climate in Scotland. The geography of Scotland means that it does rain more frequently in the west of the country and there are stronger winds in the east. If it does rain on your tour we will not be too concerned and neither should you be – we need it to make our whisky!
Inclusions
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Live commentary in English
- Customised pick-up/drop-off
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Admission charges
- Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
Check-in: 08:45 hrs
Tour Departs: 09:00 hrs
Tour Returns: 17:45 hrs
The tour will commence from your accommodation in Edinburgh.
Your tour co-ordinator will confirm the pick-up arrangements
Child details
There is no minimum age on this private tour.
Baby/child seats are available on request.
Price Notes
Group Size
The price shown is for a Mercedes-Benz V-Class or a similar vehicle, seating up to 7 passengers. Please note the price is for the vehicle hire, not the number of passengers travelling.
This tour is available for larger groups. Please contact us for details.
Cancellation Terms
A full refund, less 20% administration fee, if at least 72 hours notice is provided
No refund will be provided if less than 72 hours notice is given
The above cancellation terms refer to transport only. Services booked on your behalf may be subject to different terms.
Admission Prices
To give you maximum flexibility, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQs
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
TB 04146
