While many of the villages of the East Neuk have parlayed their picturesque heritage into resort and holiday offerings, Pittenweem – a centre of fishing – remains active with the only working harbour in the region. The National Trust for Scotland has invested in refitting many of the harbour–side's quaint, Dutch–style houses into cheerful inns, lodges and restaurants to accommodate day–trippers and overnight visitors alike.
Beyond the historic Parish Church is an old cemetery with access to underground passages that connect the site to St. Fillian's Cave. Guided tours of the grottoes are arranged at the Gingerbread Horse Café on High Street. Remains of an ancient chapel there date back to 600 AD, a full six centuries before settlement of the area by Augustine monks from the Isle of May.
High Street also boasts the 1590 townhouse of Earls of Kellie, restored to museum-quality in 1970, as well as a traditional Scottish bakery still in operation.
Pittenweem's geography allows for notably clement and clear weather throughout the summer months, making it a choice destination for boaters and fishers. Pittenweem's vibrant and active community has more recently made a name for itself as a centre for crafts and fine arts.