10 Cultural date ideas in Fife

Let’s face it, the last 18 months or so have been pretty miserable for dating. Between not being allowed out to socialise to social distancing it has been hard to meet people and go on adventures. Luckily from this week things should be getting back to a bit more normal and we’ll be free to date and explore!

I met my boyfriend on a dating app in 2020 during the first lockdown and we had to wait 3 months before meeting up in person which was tough going! Now we’re looking at planning days and trips out to make up for all the lost time. Scotland has always held a special part of my heart and I can’t wait to share it with him. So, whether you have met someone special on an app or perhaps a Fife dating site check out these 10 ideas for dates that will allow you to soak up the atmosphere, landscape, wildlife, history, and culture of Fife in magical Scotland.

1. St Andrews West Sands Beach – This beach is not only beautiful but famous for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire! West Sands offers just short of 2 miles of uninterrupted sand backed with dunes and the world-renowned golf course. Popular for walking and running on as well as for swimming, with shops and restaurants nearby this makes the perfect location for a relaxed day or evening out with someone special.
2. North Queensferry Bridge Walk – If you’re looking for an impressive vista to enjoy on your date then look no further. The North Queensferry offers a tranquil stop to marvel over the architectural wonder that is the Forth Rail Bridge. Take a moment to check out the lovelocks and our ‘new bridge’, the Queensferry Crossing before popping into one of the many pubs, cafes or restaurants for some resfreshments.
3. St Andrews Brewing Co. – You can’t have a date in Scotland and not try some of the local tipples! The South Street location in St Andrews boasts 8 taps of beer and cider including their own brews alongside Scotland’s finest craft beers ciders and some favourites from around the globe. In addition they on offer is more than 30 rare malt whiskies and bourbons from artisan distilleries, 30 craft gins and a selection of great wines alongside tasty meals.
4. Aberdour Castle and Gardens – Built by the Douglas family in the 13th century, this large and imposing suite of buildings includes the Grand hall-house, thought to be the oldest standing stone castle in Scotland. Take a guided tour in summer to see all around the castle including the painted ceiling in the east range, which is a precious survival from the early 17th century. Promanade around the delightful walled garden and enjoy the mass of scented flowers.
5. Glenrothes – Glenrothes is one of Scotland’s post-Second World War new towns located in central Fife with excellent recreational facilities, including parkland, various sports venues and two golf courses. It’s well known for its amazing town art trail, with over 172 public art works, sculptures and murals, and green spaces.
6. Pittenweem – This unsuspecting scenic fishing village of Pittenweem has a dark past! In 1705, as a result of some wild stories told by a 16 year old boy, three people died and others were cruelly tortured in what became known as the Pittenweem Witch Trials! These days Pittenweem is known for it’s harbours of traditional Fife design with red pantile or grey-slate roofs with crow-step gables hosts a thriving arts festival each August.
7. Falkland –  is a small and picturesque village between the two Lomond Hills in the Howe of Fife. Home of the Falkland Palace which was once home to the Stewart Kings and Queens. If you’re a fan of the Outlander show you might recognise it as being the filming location used as Inverness which is visited by Clare and Frank at the start of the series so if you met in an Outlander Fans group or simply on a Fife dating site this could be the perfect date location for you!
8.  Isle of May –  From monks and smugglers, Vikings to Puffins, the Isle of May has seen a lot of excitement. Head to this national nature reserve and witness hundreds of seabirds crammed onto cliffs and puffins peeking out from their burrows for a truly unforgettable sight! There is a small visitor centre offering more information and in the Summer you can pop on a boat trip for a bit of seal-spotting!
9. Fife Folk Museum – Founded in 1968, in the heart of the Conservation Area of the historic village of Ceres, this museum offers a look back into the history of Fife to see how people lived and worked in times gone by including a range of historic buildings including former weavers’ cottages, and the old weigh-house and tolbooth.
10. The Scottish Deer Centre – Is there any image more iconic than that of a Scottish Stag against a sunset? The Scottish Deer Centre is a real gem of Scottish rural and environmental life. There are 9 different species of deer on view in the 55 acre site. There is also Bird of Prey centre offering falconry displays, a network of Tree Top Walkways, all weather picnic facilities and Daily Events and Tours with keepers to enjoy.