Anstruther is a small village in the Kingdom of Fife and is actually one of the largest villages in the East Neuk region, with a population of about 3500 people. It is a very picturesque sight with the line of shops along the street overlooking the harbour. This village is the main shopping centre for the surrounding villages. It is located only 9 miles southeast of St. Andrews and comprises the villages of Anstruther Easter, Anstruther Wester and Kilkenny. A small stream called the Dreel Burn separates the two Anstruthers.
Archaeological evidence points to Anstruther as having been inhabited during the time of the Picts and is directly linked to the early Christian Church in Scotland. In its early days, the economy of the village had its base in the fishery, but today it is mostly concentrated on tourism. You can learn about the fishing heritage when you visit the Scottish Fisheries Museum. Here you will see many models of boats as well as all kinds of artefacts related to the fishing industry as well as the R.N.L.I lifeboat, which is the major attraction.
Anstruther has a golf course where you can tee off in the most scenic location in the country. Enjoy fish and chips at the local store and see why this store has won so many awards for its delicious food. There is a wealth of attractions for you to visit in and around the village and it is the perfect base from which you can explore the countryside.
Just a mile away from Anstruther you can visit the remains of a priory at Pittenweem. The fine Gothic church in Abercromby is the perfect photo taking opportunity as it sits on top of the hill as if it is guarding its domain. One of the ships of the Armada landed in Anstruther in the 15
th century, with many of the sailors remaining here to marry Scottish girls and settle down.
During the summer, the harbour of Anstruther is an awesome sight with the many pleasure crafts and yachts that sail into the harbour. Here you can charter a boat to take you fishing on the bay or for a trip around the coastline to see the many caves and indentations in the cliffs. It is the perfect spot if you like bird watching because it is the nesting ground for many types of seabirds, such as puffins and gannets. You can also take a boat trip to the May Isle, which is a nature reserve. In ancient times, it was the base that early Christian missionaries used when they were driven from the mainland by Danish invaders. Today it is home to numerous seabirds and wildlife.
As you stroll through the village, you can gaze at the old buildings to see some of the architecture from an earlier age. Drop into the pub to hear some of the legends associated with some of the buildings, especially that of Buckie House, which was covered in shells.
Comfortable accommodations and fine meals await you when you choose to visit Anstruther.