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Howe of Fife

Hilly at times but with great views of rolling countryside and the Tay Estuary.

This quiet part of Fife has some lovely scenery with views over rolling farmland and the Firth of Tay. There are also some steep hills! The route described here is circular. You might prefer to do it over two days possibly staying in Falkland or St Andrews.

* Alternatively if 65 miles is too long the route can be shortened by using the 12 mile yellow coloured linking section (12+24 = 36 miles, see map).

Of course everyone has heard of St Andrews, its golf club is recognised as the ruling body for the sport world wide. The other small towns such as Newburgh, Auchtermuchty and Falkland have a rich history and still retain much of their original character. You'll find too that the wee towns and villages of Fife are not generally lacking in pubs and shops to fuel you on your way.

The route is described starting and finishing in St Andrews but you could equally well begin in Falkland or Newburgh.

West of Gauldry the road climbs and dips, then just after a cross roads there's a great scenic descent to the sea overlooking the Tay Estuary, this only applies if you are going west, otherwise it's a climb with the view behind you. There are more hills before Newburgh so you'll have some descent whichever way you go. Near Newburgh there’s an unusual road sign telling you to beware of crossing geese.

Newburgh was the first town in Scotland to provide free school books for pupils, it's got an attractive park overlooking Mugdrum Island. The pub opposite the park is the spot where the route turns away from the sea. There's a choice of food shops and several pubs, one with tables outside if it's sunny. It's a good place to have a rest and a bite to eat if you are continuing to Auchtermuchty as there is a serious climb.

The climb between Newburgh and Auchtermuchty goes over the shoulder of Pitcairlie Hill. Climbing up from Newburgh it's painfully steep but walking it wouldn't take too long. There's a B&B halfway up the hill at Ninewells Farm.

Auchtermuchty is the centre of the Howe of Fife farming area but its chief interest to visitors is its name which has a satisfying double 'ch' in it. The locals don't bother with this and just call it 'muchty. There's a pub there called the Cycle Tavern but the present owner has no particular connection with bicycles so far as I know.

Falkland Palace was once a favourite hunting lodge of the Stewart kings. The building is much decorated with buttresses, medallions and ornate dormer windows. James V was responsible for much of the building. Famously he was not overjoyed with the news of the birth of his daughter Mary Queen of Scots as he wanted a male heir: 'It came wi' a lass and it'll gang wi' a lass' he moaned.

The building is run by the National Trust and the interiors are in the style of the seventeenth century, you can see James VI's bed and magnificent tapestries. The tennis court is the oldest in Britain and the gardens are lovely. You should be able to find a choice of places to stay as there are several hotels, B&Bs and a friendly independent hostel.

Features:

• B&Bs / Hotels Nearby
• Circular Route
• Full Day Ride
• Part National Cycle Network
• Route By Sea
• Route With Bar Meals
• Route With Place To Visit
• Route With Tea Room
• Several Day Ride
• Train Station

Additional Features:

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