Local Area
Catchpenny is set in the heart of the East Neuk of Fife, a stunning Scottish holiday getaway for family and friends.
The best holidays in Fife are spent pottering by the sea and enjoying the simple things in life such as hunting for fossils, searching rock pools, photography and wildlife spotting from red squirrels to dolphins.
Whether you are enjoying the many walks, cycle paths, seal spotting, rock pooling, or partaking in sports such as tennis or golf, in Elie, St Monans, Pittemweem, Anstruther, Crail and Kingsbarns or St Andrews there is something for everyone. Alternatively, simply enjoy the delicious food on offer in local restaurants such as the Ship Inn in Elie or the Kinneuchar Inn in Kilconquhar, or enjoying some fresh seafood from the East Pier Smokehouse in St Monans.
If you’re having a day off from beaches, watersports, golf or tennis then take a wander through the pretty streets of Elie and admire the typical East Neuk architecture of pastel coloured windows and stepped gables. Pop in to our lovely boutique shops or stop for an ice cream at Carol’s Ice Cream Shop. For more local attractions and activities have a read through our Local Area section and see all the fun and fascinating visits you can enjoy in Elie, the East Neuk and beyond.
Fife is a collection of small towns and villages which boast character and unique style. Enjoy the buzzy atmosphere of St Andrews to the quaint fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife such as Elie, St Monans, Pitemweem, Anstruther, Crail and beyond, the area is a feast for the senses with picturesque sea towns and villages, and a never ending list of places to visit with the many castles, palaces, museums, boutique shops and galleries which can be found in abundance.
Whether staying with family or friends, for relaxation or adventure, our lodges give easy access to it all.
Elie is a unique place with a charm of its own – set on Fife’s award winning beaches such as Ruby Bay and Earlsferry Beach
Elie and Earlsferry is a wonderful seaside destination for all the family. At low tide the beach at Elie Harbour links to Earlsferry Beach giving almost a mile of uninterrupted golden sand. The long sandy beach at Elie offers excellent watersport activities, for beginners and those more experienced. With a wide range of facilities and activities available this is an ideal family venue. Facilities include toilets, lifeguards, first aid, disabled access, parking and a cafe.
Ruby Bay, a glorious Blue Flag beach is sheltered and sandy, located to the east of the village of Elie with a backdrop of dunes and overlooking the Firth of Forth. Ruby Bay is a part of the Fife Coastal Path and provides access to beautiful walks in the surrounding countryside. This a great spot for rock pooling at low tide.
Discover the East Neuk of Fife old and new – explore all the modern attractions on offer combined with Fife’s rich historical and industrial tapestry
For garden lovers arrange a visit to the beautiful walled gardens at Wemyss Castle, Cambo, Wormistoune and Kellie Castle and look out for Scotland’s Gardens and the Fife Spring Trail to visit privately owned gardens across Central and East Fife. If art is your passion then you shouldn’t miss the Pittenweem Arts Festival held at the beginning of August.
Cambo Country House & Estate not only has one of the finest walled gardens in Scotland but the surrounding grounds and parkland are perfect for a walk and there’s a cafe on site for hungry adventurers. There are hidden surprises and treasures to see all around Cambo as well as many events throughout the year.
The Scottish Fisheries Museum in Anstruther and Scotland’s Secret Bunker both provide different but fascinating visits for those keen on history and both are great fun for children as well.
St Andrews, described as one of Europe’s finest towns, is not only the home of golf but also a place of history, learning and culture. Everything is within walking distance – St Andrews Castle, the ruins of the Cathedral, the stunning University buildings, the Golf Museum, St Andrews Aquarium and so much more. Visit St Andrews for more.
Anyone with a thirst for Scottish drinks head to Lindores Abbey Distillery, not just a whisky distillery and visitor centre but a chance to visit the ruins of Lindores Abbey, stop for a drink at the Legacy Bar (you have to try their malt spirit Aqua Vitae) or have some dinner in their Refectory. Whether you are a gin, whisky or craft beer enthusiast then plan a visit to Eden Mill St Andrews for an amazing tour of their distillery and brewery.
Whilst in St Andrews, a visit to Balgove Larder is a must, whether to eat at the unique Steak Barn or to shop in the gorgeous farm shop – you won’t be disappointed.
Food lovers must head to the Crail Food Festival held in June and Bowhouse Makers Market. If you’re in search of some wonderful music The East Neuk Festival can be enjoyed at the end of June in venues throughout the East Neuk.