Kingdom of Fife

Fife Pub Guide

A guide to Fife Real Ale pubs, as listed on

  • Aberdour
    • Aberdour Hotel 38 High Street Aberdour KY3 0SW Telephone(01383) 860325

      Aberdour Hotel is a former coaching inn in the High Street of this village with its two beaches, picturesque habour, historic castle and golf course. Two real ales are available in the bar. Traditional pub food is served in the bar and separate restauarant. Good location for the Fife Coastal Path and many country walks.

    • Foresters Arms 35 High Street Aberdour KY3 0SJ Telephone(01383) 860915

      This corner pubs sits in the middle of the village and is great stop off point for tourists and ramblers using the fife coastal path, conveniently located only a few hundred yards from the railway station and Aberdour Castle. As you would expect from a pub right at the heart of the community, several weekly events are held, ranging from bingo to raffles. You will also find a jukebox, pool table and live sporting events on the big screen.

  • Anstruther
    • Bank 23-25 High Street East Anstruther KY10 3DQ Telephone(01333) 310189

      The Bank, a charming family-run hotel with a public bar boasts one of Anstruther's most breath-taking vistas, where the Dreel Burn meets the Firth of Forth, creating a picturesque backdrop for your evening dining experience. Catering to all tastes, The Bank offers freshly prepared lunches and bar suppers sourced from local providers, alongside a delightful selection of real ales, draught beers, wines, and spirits. Its expansive, well-tended gardens are hailed as a sun-drenched sanctuary, inviting guests to bask in the warmth and tranquillity of this idyllic setting.

    • Dreel Tavern 16 High Street Anstruther KY10 3DL Telephone(01333) 279238

      The Dreel Tavern is a characterful, part‑thatched historic inn offering a warm welcome and a well‑kept selection of rotating cask ales, often featuring Scottish breweries. Its traditional bar and cosy dining areas highlight the building’s heritage, while quality food and attentive service attract both locals and visitors. With its atmospheric setting, real‑fire comfort, and commitment to well‑kept beer, the Dreel remains a distinctive and much‑loved pub in Anstruther.

    • Ship Tavern 49 Shore Street Anstruther KY10 3AQ Telephone(01333) 341265

      A poplar meeting place for fishermen, locals and visitors to the water front. The ship is located right on the harbour front across from the historic Reaper (a two-masted sailing lugger), also, next door to the fishery museum. This bar has all you would expect in character from a history fishing village. Sit back and relax and watch the views across the harbour.

      Reopened 21/04/2023 after a major refurbishment. Photos show one handpump on the bar and a May 2023 report confirmed Deuchars IPA on at the time. Dog & Family friendly; no meals at reopening but hope to introduce them later.

  • Burntisland
    • Sands Hotel Lochies Road Burntisland KY3 9JX Telephone(01592) 872230

      A family run hotel near Burnisland seafront. Breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner are all served from local produce. The Sands is near to the links and handy for the summer fair and Highland Games in July which are the second oldest in Scotland (1652). There are four ensuite rooms, three with sea vews.

  • Cellardyke
    • Haven Bar & Restaurant 1 Shore Street Cellardyke KY10 3BD Telephone(01333) 310574

      The Haven Bar and Restaurant is renowned for its warm welcome, great atmosphere, good beer and terrific food. Located in Cellardyke in the heart of the East Neuk of Fife, the Haven Bar and Restaurant overlooks the historic harbour at Cellardyke and out across the Firth of Forth to the Isle of May.

  • Ceres
    • Ceres Inn The Cross Ceres KY15 5NA Telephone(01334) 828305

      Located in the heart of Ceres and only a 15 minute drive from St Andrews, The Ceres Inn prides itself on its reputation for friendly service and quality, value for money food and drink. With a separate dining room ideal for small functions, The Ceres Inn’s warm atmosphere is suitable for all the family to enjoy. Take away menu also available.

  • Crail
    • Golf Hotel 4 High Street Crail KY10 3TD Telephone(01333) 450206

      This historic building dates to the early 1700’s, making it one of the oldest inns in Scotland. The Golf hotel is a listed coaching inn, located in the picturesque village of Crail. The bar retains the original low beamed ceiling, wooden floors and a 16th century fireplace with a marriage lintel over it bearing the initials of the original owners. For golfers, Crail has two links courses and is perfectly situated for a trip to St Andrews or if your looking to relax, scenic coastal paths offer a fantastic opportunity to explore. Winter hours vary.

    • Shoregate 67 High Street North Crail KY10 3RA Telephone(01333) 451815

      Described in a report as a restaurant with a bar, but we note that from summer 2023 accommodation will also be available. The historic Category C Listed bar is at the back and appears to be open to all - "Come for a drink or two, bring the kids, bring the dog and settle in for the afternoon, the evening, or both.". One handpump serving a local ale.

  • Culross
    • Red Lion Inn Low Causeway Culross KY12 8HN Telephone(01383) 880225

      The painted ceiling in the Bar area depicts scenes from “Kidnapped” by Robert Louis Stevenson and associated with the Burgh of Culross; painted by Douglas Cadoo.

      2024 reports stated that the pub is now brewing its own beers and has a list of six rotating beers with two hand pulls, one serving Red Lion Brewery Culross Abbey Ale.

  • Cupar
    • Boudingait 43 Bonnygate Cupar KY15 4BU Telephone(01334) 208310

      Upon entering this may look more like a restaurant with place settings on all or most of the tables, but fear not. Although mostly given over to food, drinkers are given a warm welcome at the bar. Outside meal periods or during quieter times you may also sit at the tables and play one of the available board games if that is your want. Dogs are welcome at all times, and children till 9pm if having a meal.

  • Dunfermline
    • Commercial Inn 13 Douglas Street Dunfermline KY12 7EB Telephone(01383) 695994

      Located in the city centre this traditional pub is popular with visitors and its many regulars alike. Formerly a hotel this 19th century building is full of character and retains the high ceilings and decorative wooden cornices of that period. Regional Pub of the Year 2023 and local cider Pub of the Year 2025. Good quality traditional pub food and filled rolls available.

    • East Port 7 East Port Dunfermline KY12 7JG Telephone(01383) 736678

      Located on the high street, just a short distance from the main shopping area, well worth a visit when out and about in Dunfermline. This busy (especially on match days) town centre pub is not simply a sports bar, but a great place to relax with a few drinks in one the many cosy booths. The interior features wood panelling and a wooden bar and gantry. Plasma screens show sport from football to golf, and soft background music usually plays. Tables can be booked during large sporting events.

    • Guildhall & Linen Exchange 79-83 High Street Dunfermline KY12 7DR Telephone(01383) 625960

      This is a Grade A listed building which was a Guildhall and Linen Exchange when Dunfermline was synonymous with quality table linen. It is now a busy split level Wetherpoon pub and hotel with further seating to be found to the rear and right of the main bar area. The interior is decorated with a mix of modern and art deco features and pictures celebrating the City's hisoric past.

    • Pitbauchlie House Hotel 47 Aberdour Road Dunfermline KY11 4PB Telephone(01383) 722282

      The hotel is situated minutes from the M90 motorway, 5 miles from the famous Forth Road and Rail Bridges, 12 miles from Edinburgh Airport and 17 miles from Edinburgh City Centre. Stirling, Perth, Falkirk and Livingston are all 30 minutes drive away. Fyne Ales Jarl on sale in Sams Bar/Harvies Bistro.

  • Elie
    • Ship Inn The Toft Elie KY9 1DT Telephone(01333) 330246

      A pub/restaurant with a cracking beach view, worth the walk from the high street (approx 6-10mins). Relax in the comfort of the open fires and wood burning stoves. During the summer when the tide is out, beach cricket can be viewed from the beach bar (please check fixtures). Food is served throughout the pub, featuring their ever popular pub favourite, The Ship Inn’s famous fish and chips as well as championing local shellfish and Scottish seafood. Food prices are geared more to the second home owners and wealthy tourists than the locals.

  • Freuchie
    • Albert Tavern 2 High Street Freuchie KY15 7EX Telephone07476 762427

      This is a thriving, bustling, small two roomed pub situated in the village of Freuchie. Up to five ales available and at least three ciders. Dark beers tend to feature more in winter, and paler beers in summer. Beers are generally from Scottish brewers. The bar area is decorated with pump clips from ales that have been sold previously. On entering on the right is the lounge furnished with bench seating and has a decent size tv showing free to air sports. This pub is a multi award winner within Fife (Ale and Cider Pub of the year) and National (Scottish Pub of the Year) The team are always friendly and willing to share their ale knowledge.

  • Glenrothes
    • Golden Acorn 1 North Street Glenrothes KY7 5NA Telephone(01592) 755252

      A typical large open-plan Wetherspoon pub on one level, catering for most patrons with up to eight ales on offer, and themed menus and promotions on most days. TVs throughout with sport and news, a family area to the rear (there are baby change facilities). Parking out front (3rd party operator), register on the machine at the end of the bar (£75 fine otherwise). Be aware due to MUP legislation in Scotland 50p CAMRA vouchers may not always be accepted. Another note of warning, there is a CCTV camera pointed at the urinals in the gents.

  • Hillend
    • Hillend Tavern 37 Main Street Hillend KY11 9ND Telephone(01383) 415391

      A friendly, traditional village pub with a strong community focus, the Hillend Tavern offers a warm welcome and a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. The bar provides a straightforward selection of well‑kept drinks, complemented by hearty, home‑cooked food served in inviting surroundings. Regular events and a loyal local following give the pub a lively yet easygoing character. With its dependable hospitality and village‑centre role, it remains a valued meeting place for residents and visitors alike. A Dog Bar offers complementary water and treats to well managed canines. Regional Pub of the Year 2023 and local Pub of the Year 2024.

  • Kinghorn
    • Auld Hoose 6-8 Nethergate Kinghorn KY3 9SY Telephone(01592) 891074

      A traditional two-room pub just of the main street of the popular seaside village and former Royal Burgh. It has a large bar area with a comfortable lounge at the side. Popular with both locals and visitors this is an ideal refreshment stop for the Fife Coastal Path walkers. Lunches are served daily. The pub hosts regular evening events such as live music, karaoke and dominoes with open mic sessions on occasional Sundays.

    • Crown Tavern 55-57 High Street Kinghorn KY3 9UW Telephone(01592) 891363

      Formerly known as the Middle Bar, this pub sits at the heart of Kinghorn, just a short stroll from the railway station. Embracing community atmosphere it doubles as a sports bar, boasting a larger screen and multiple smaller ones. Quench your thirst with two real ales, normally one from Loch Leven, often one from English breweries rarely seen in the area from classic Scottish tall founts. Events held such as live music, whisky tasting and more, making it a hub of local entertainment and camaraderie.

  • Kirkcaldy
    • Betty Nicols 297 High Street Kirkcaldy KY1 1JL Telephone(01592) 590467

      The current holder of the Kingdom of Fife branch Pub of the Year, Betty's is located in the town's merchants quarter, this traditional pub on the high street boasts a cozy interior with vintage patterned tiles and comfortable seating. Proudly serving three real ales, often sourced from Fyne Ales, it offers a bistro menu and a selection of bottled beers, wines, and spirits. Regular quiz nights and events add to the lively atmosphere. Whether seeking a quiet pint, a satisfying meal, or an evening of lively entertainment, this traditional pub promises an experience to remember.

    • Exchequer 60-62 High Street Kirkcaldy KY1 1NB Telephone(01592) 646635

      A very large open plan restaurant and bar. This multi level outlet offers 2 hand pulls, and a wide range of lagers and spirits. A multitude of themed menus to cater for most palates. Ask any staff member for a water bowl for your significant other with four legs!

    • Robert Nairn 2-6 Kirk Wynd Kirkcaldy KY1 1EH Telephone(01592) 205049

      With six quickly changing hand pulls and a roaring fire through the winter, this pub is named after a member of the Nairn family, helping to put Kirkcaldy on the map. The building, a former bank, is just off the town’s main pedestrianised area. It has a split-level lounge, and pictures of old Kirkcaldy adorn the walls. The pub’s central location, close to the town’s Old Kirk, allows it to attract a mixed clientele. Be aware due to MUP legislation in Scotland 50p CAMRA vouchers may not always be accepted.

  • Leslie
    • Burns Tavern 184 High Street Leslie KY6 3DB Telephone(01592) 741345

      Come for the beer and stay for the banter! The Burns is one of those pubs where if you want to go and join in the conversation you are always more than welcome, as is your dog. This is a two room bar where most of the lively conversation takes place in the main bar on the right as you enter. In the winter months there is also a very welcome open fire. Further back is a raised section with a pool table. The lounge bar on the left of the entrance only tends to be occupied when there is no seating left in the public bar, but you are still welcome to use it even when quiet. TV screens show whatever match is on and are generally muted. A juke box plays tunes mainly from the 60’s to the 80’s.

  • Limekilns
    • Bruce Arms 2 Main Street Limekilns KY11 3HL Telephone(01383) 872259

      The Bruce is a cozy and inviting pub nestled in the heart of this historic village. Situated along the Fife Coastal Path, the pub is a favourite spot for walkers. The roots of the village trace back to the 14th century. As you relax at The Bruce, you'll be treated to breathtaking views stretching across the picturesque Firth of Forth and down the river towards the iconic bridges. Whether you're indulging in lunch or savoring a refreshing pint, you'll be captivated by the stunning scenery.

    • Ship Inn Halketts Hall Limekilns KY11 3HJ Telephone(01383) 872247

      This pub sits on the River Forth with views of the three bridges spanning the river. The Ship Inn today is a family run business which prides itself in providing a warm relaxed atmosphere. The ship is located at the west end of this former fishing village, which also had a ferry linking Fife to Bo'ness. This is echoed in Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel ‘Kidnapped’ where David Balfour and Alan Breck were carried across the Forth after an alleged tipple at The Ship.

  • Lower Largo
    • Railway Inn 1 Station Wynd Lower Largo KY8 6BU Telephone(01333) 320239

      The Railway is a friendly and traditional pub, dating back to 1749. Standing in the shadow of the old East Fife Railway viaduct in the picturesque village of Lower Largo, it is bedecked with railway memorabilia. In fair weather you can relax in the beer garden or sit at benches out the front, overlooking the harbour. Lunches of pies, toasties and bar snacks are available. Sitting beside the Fife Coastal Path, it is a handy respite for walkers. Although serving until midnight,the front door closes at 11. There is a carpark a 200m away in station park from where a small path leads downhill. There is generally no music, but the TV volume is sometimes turned up when there is a football match on.

  • Pittenweem
    • West End Bar & Gantry 32 South Loan Pittenweem KY10 2QB Telephone(01333) 311587

      Friendly pub in a pretty Fife coastal village with beer garden

  • St Andrews
    • Aikmans Bar & Bistro 32 Bell Street St Andrews KY16 9UX Telephone(01334) 477425

      Aikman’s Bar ~ Bistro and The Cellar Bar form a long‑established, bohemian two‑level venue known for its eclectic drinks selection and relaxed, artistic atmosphere. The upstairs bar offers a laid‑back, lived‑in charm, complemented by the Cellar Bar’s cosy, music‑friendly feel. Among its quirks are a famously well‑worn settie and toilets decorated with layers of student graffiti, both part of its folklore. Welcoming staff and comfort food complete this St Andrews institution.

    • Central Bar 77 Market Street St Andrews KY16 9NU Telephone(01334) 478296

      Victorian style interior with an island bar, ornate ceiling and a fine collection of historic brewery mirrors. As the name suggests this pub is situated in the busy cobbled market square of this historic university town. Enjoy a drink and watch the university town lifestyle go by on the small seated area at the front of the building. Customers are a wide range of locals, tourists, students and golfers. 25% discount for students.

    • St Andrews Brewing Co 177 South Street St Andrews KY16 9EE Telephone(01334) 471111

      This craft brew pub showcases a wide range of St Andrews Brewing Co beers in cask, keg and bottle form. 18 taps are available, four taps are dedicated to cask ales, normally two to STABCO ales, a guest ale, and a craft cider. This pub is popular with students, tourists and visitors alike. Enjoy a quick 1/3rd or 1/2 pint downstairs by the fireplace or upstairs in the beer hall. Real Ale availability may vary during the week.

    • Whey Pat Tavern 1 Bridge Street St Andrews KY16 9EX Telephone(01334) 477740

      A traditional Fife Hostelry with pleasant, helpful staff. University meeting place in well furnished back room during term time. The warm and welcoming main bar has high table and bench seats with many pictures of old St Andrews on the walls. Folk music sessions every Wednesday from 8pm. A dog friendly establishment with drinking bowls and dog biscuits.

  • St. Andrews
    • Criterion 99 South Street St. Andrews KY16 9QW Telephone(01334) 474543

      The Criterion is a long‑established traditional pub recognised for well‑kept rotating cask ales, often featuring Scottish breweries. Its classic interior, friendly service and lively mix of locals, students, and visitors create a welcoming atmosphere. A broad whisky and gin selection adds depth, while the renowned Cri‑Pie remains a defining house speciality. Operating on a card‑only basis, the pub maintains a strong reputation for quality, character, and consistently reliable beer in the heart of St. Andrews.

  • Strathkinness
    • Tavern 4 High road Strathkinness KY16 9RS Telephone(01334) 850085

      The tavern is located right at the heart of the village, it is owned, and run by the Wilkie family. Widely known for its friendly hosts, excellent food, and varied beers section. The outdoor seating area has amazing views over the Eden estuary, and north to the Grampian mountains. Lunches and evening meals are served in the bar and restaurant, while a cosy lounge has traditional pub games