Inverkeithing Travel Guide - Scotland

Just 15 kilometres north of Edinburgh Airport lies a wonderful town called Inverkeithing. This charming port town is officially home to nearly 6,000 people, but it is tremendously popular with visitors and those on extended holiday.

A port town with a rich history

Inverkeithing has been in existence for several centuries, being awarded the status of royal burgh in the 12^th century by King David I of Scotland. Throughout its history the town has always been both scenic as well as a hub of activity of all types.

Some of the most famous history of Inverkeithing comes from the mid 17^th century when the Battle of Inverkeithing was fought not far from nearby Pitreavie Castle. It also includes in its history the fact that it was the last place Alexander III was sighted in 1286. As the story goes, he fell off of his horse or perhaps off a nearby cliff, in either case falling to his death.

Visitors can get a feel for why Inverkeithing was so important during medieval times by taking a boat or ferry out into Inverkeithing harbour. From that perspective you can take in the stunning expanse of both the harbour and the surrounding landscape, all the while appreciating the gorgeous area in which the town is located. The earliest residents (and invaders) understood both this beauty as well as the strategic value of the harbour itself.

Historic places to see in Inverkeithing

Because it has a long and rich history, there are of course many interesting and historic places to see in Inverkeithing. For instance, the parish church of St. Peter is located in the town; its tower dates back to the 14^th century and features some intricate and unusual openings in the belfry. Inside the church visitors can see a wonderfully well-preserved font from the late 1300's, complete with carved angels and their heraldic shields.

Even the town museum is historic as it is housed in a lovely medieval building dating back to a Franciscan friary. It is one of the few such buildings remaining in Scotland, complete with a garden area in the back with some large stone vaults thought to have originally been used as storage cellars. Strolling through the garden it is easy to imagine being back there during the height of its use by the Greyfriars.