Also known as "the Lang Toun" because of its extensive seacoast, the history of Kirkcaldy dates back many centuries. Today it is made up of several former towns and the main street is four miles long. It is said that the Battle of Raith was fought to the west of Kirkcaldy in 596 AD. The name of the town comes from a Celtic phrase meaning "fort on a rocky hill" although one would assume it was associated with a church.
The history of Kirkcaldy involves coal mining, first started by the monks of Dunfermline Abbey in the 11
th century. With a sheltered harbour, the town grew as a result of the safety it provided for ships and grew to become one of the most important seaports in
Scotland. By 1820, it was an important whaling centre and with the coming of the railway to quickly export the coal, the town was very prosperous indeed. Kirkcaldy is the birthplace of linoleum; a new flooring that became popular all over the world in the 1960's.
Visitors to the town delight in the downtown area where they can walk from store to store, many of which have unique items for sale. Brides–to–be come to Angel Tiaras to have the tiara for their bridal veils individually designed and Enchante Bridal has just the right handcrafted invitations, gowns and accessories to make the day complete. At Just a Glass, you can have miniature bottle of Scotch whisky personalised as a memento of your visit or as a gift to take back to a friend. Kirkcaldy is also the home of the largest outdoor market in Europe. The Links Market extends along the length of High Street every Easter and brings all kinds of street vendors and performers as well as visitors to the town.
The Kirkcaldy Museum and Art gallery features an exquisite display of paintings from the 19
th century and is located in the War Memorial Gardens. The museum also has a collection of archives, such as coins, costumes, archaeological artefacts and details of the town's history. Ravenscraig Castle overlooks the town from the Eastern end. Built in 1460, this castle was supposed to be impervious to cannon fire. The rock on which it is built is unique in that it is red and yellow sandstone. Near to this castle, you will also find Path House and the Feuars' Arms, a pub that features decorative tiles and stained glass windows. The Old Parish Church is worth a visit as well. This structure has many stained glass windows and sections of the church are over 200 years old. The churchyard contains many old tombstones, some of which have interesting inscriptions.
Golfers love the challenge of the Kirkcaldy Golf Club. This 18–hole course features challenging parkland in a rural setting where you can enjoy the glorious scenery of the Firth or Forth.
