Kingdom of Fife

Campaign for Real Ale

Campaign for Real Ale

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 which is now a 16 bedroom hotel.

      Reported as no real ale and handpumps removed 12/06/2023, but this was apparently temporary as by the end of July a single handpump was back. Apologies for the false alarm! However, real ale is likely to be available for the summer season only.

    • 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 bar and hotel, 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

      Steeped in history, the Dreel Tavern is nestled within one of Anstruther's oldest buildings—a former coaching inn dating back 300-400 years. As a family-run establishment, it offers a blend of tradition and modernity, with locally sourced fine dining complementing its pub atmosphere. Whether basking in the sunshine of the beer garden overlooking the Dreel Burn or enjoying cozy winter evenings by the open fire, the Dreel extends a hearty welcome to both locals and tourists, promising memorable experiences year-round.

    • 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 warm welcome awaits at this family run hotel by the seafront in this picturesque coastal resort. Burntisland is home to the second oldest Highland Games in the world (1652), held in mid-July alongside the towns annual fairground. The hotel has a choice of restaurants and is renowned for its high teas. The Sands Hotel has a popular outside area in which to relax and watch the trains go by!

  • 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.

  • Cowdenbeath
    • Woodside Hotel 109 Broad Street Cowdenbeath KY4 8JR Telephone(01383) 511598

      This typical working man’s pub can be found at the top end of this old mining village. Set on its own, this grand old style building has a number of features, namely a large spacious bar, allowing for a lounge area at the front with two handpumps, with one available at all times, and a games area, pool and darts. Plasma screens show a wide range of live sporting events from football, rugby, golf and horse racing. A friendly atmosphere is complemented by the live music nights every Saturday and Sunday,

  • 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.

      Reported early 2022 to have no real ale and no handpumps, though website still says 'ask for availability', but another report July 2023 said cask was back on with Brew Shed Sandilands Pale Ale on that visit.

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

      The Boudingait pub is situated in the center of Cupar. It is a small quiet pub, with a pleasant atmosphere. Family and dog friendly. Mostly given over to food, seating is available at the bar. very knowledgeable staff, lots of advice given on available ales. There is no TV in the pub and board games are available for customers to use.

    • Golf Tavern 11 South Road Cupar KY15 5JF Telephone(01334) 654233

      With two hand-pulls, but only one in constant use, this family friendly pub has an extensive beer garden for the kids of all ages. 10% discount on ale purchases for valid card carrying CAMRA members. Great parking in an agreement they have with Aldi who’s car park is directly opposite. Sports on terrestrial services only

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

      Located at the heart of the town centre close to the main retail area , the pub attracts an eclectic clientele and gets busy on match days. Formerly a hotel, this 19th century listed building is full of character and retains the high ceilings and decorative wooden cornices of that period. A spiral staircase leads down to the lower levels. Local and Regional CAMRA Pub Of The Year 2022. They pride themselves on the quality fo heir home cooked food.

    • 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 Wetherspoon outlet was indeed a guildhall and linen exchange when Dunfermline was synonymous with fine quality table linen. The category A listed building is now a split level pub and hotel. The interior is decorated with a mix of modern and art deco features and displays numerous pictures highlighting the historic past of the town. In the middle of the busy retail area, this is a great place to stop for a pint and a bite to eat. There are three entrances, quickest access to the bar is via the Eastern most door on the High Street.

    • 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.

  • Earlsferry
    • 19th Hole 5 Links Road Earlsferry KY9 1AW Telephone(01333) 330610

      Pub/restaurant. Home cooked food, brunch, real ales, great selection of whiskies and gin, coffee and home-baking

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

      A cracking 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). Four hand pulls are available offering a wide range of local, regional and national ales. Food is served throughout the pub, featuring there ever popular pub favourites, The Ship Inn’s famous fish and chips as well as championing local shellfish and Scottish seafood.

  • Falkland
    • Bruce Inn 23 High Street Falkland KY15 7BZ Telephone(01337) 857226

      A traditional village ale house and restaurant with accomodation is under new ownership recently.

  • Freuchie
    • Albert Tavern 2 High Street Freuchie KY15 7EX Telephone07876 178863

      Small two roomed pub situated in the village of Freuchie. Up to five ales available and at least two ciders. 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 side tv showing free to air sports. This pub is an 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 there ale knowledge.

  • Glenrothes
    • Bankhead Gate Brewers Fayre Beaufort Drive Glenrothes KY7 4UJ Telephone(01592) 773473

      This Brewers Fayre opens at 6.30am Mon-Fr, 7am Sat-Sun for breakfast. This family friendly premise has a large internal Play Zone as well as an external play area. At the Bankhead Gate Brewers Fayre you'll find pub food as it should be with their every day great value menu. One core ale, normally Sharps Doom Bar, however these are subject to change from a national supply.

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

      A JD Wetherspoon pub with 26 hotel rooms available. A large open planned pub with a family area to the rear of the pub. There are a number of TVs throughout the building, showing, a mixture of sports and news. A busy pub catering to all tastes, themed menus and promotions are available most days. Parking is available directly in front of the pub, remember to register your car details via the monitored parking system by the bar.

    • Kingdom Of Fife - Real Ale Festival Rothes Halls, Rothes Square Glenrothes KY7 5NX

      Annual ale festival to promote CAMRA & Real Ale as well as Cider & Perry. Over 30 Real Ales, Ciders and Perries from near and faar

  • Guardbridge
    • Guardbridge Inn 1 Old St Andrews Road Guardbridge KY16 0UD Telephone(01334) 848507

      A family run restaurant with a bar. Draught ale on most weekends; often only bottled ale during the week

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

      A community focused village pub near Dalgety Bay with cosy log fires, beer garden and a selection of real ales creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The 'TAV' as it is known has a traditional bar and spacious area at the rear which is ideal for groups or functions. A Dog Bar offers complementary water and treats to well managed canines. Live music nights and the two quiz nights a month are popular. 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, our two-roomed pub sits at the heart of Kinghorn, just a stroll from the train station. Embracing a community atmosphere, it doubles as a sports bar, boasting a large screen and multiple smaller ones. Quench your thirst with two ales served from classic Scottish tall founts, a rarity nowadays. Join us for lively evening events, featuring live music and more, making it a hub of local entertainment and camaraderie.

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

      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. One of the few venues in Fife accepting CAMRA ale vouchers (excluding Wetherspoons). Ask any staff member for a water bowl for your significant other with four legs!

    • Harbour Bar 473 High Street Kirkcaldy KY1 2SN Telephone(01592) 264270

      Established in 1870, this historic pub boasts a vibrant ambiance, featuring live music and quizzes. It proudly serves Belgian cuisine alongside a diverse selection of real ales and Belgian beers. Housed in a former ship chandler's establishment, the building has a regionally significant interior, notably retaining a rare Jug bar. Tucked behind the pub lies the dormant Fyfe brewery, housed in the old sailmaker's workshop, due for revival under new ownership. Please note, the pub is currently undergoing refurbishment and is only open on Fridays, with an expected completion date and normal opening in April.

    • 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.

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

      The Burns is very much the hub of the community. Located in the former paper making town of Leslie, the Burns Tavern remains a traditional style bar with a lounge and public bar. The main bar to the right on entry is split into two sections, the lower contains the main bar area and the higher level contains a pool table with the pub having its own pool team. Sit back, relax and enjoy your pint of Timothy Taylors Landlord while watching sporting events on the numerous TVs. The Burns also has a juke box mainly featuring music from the 60's to 80's.

    • Fettykil Fox Leslie Roundabout Leslie KY6 3EP Telephone(01592) 749613

      A traditional olde-worlde style building with coal fires at both ends. The décor is a mix of stone, wood panelling and rough plaster on the walls, with oak beamed ceilings throughout. The bar is furnished with comfortable couches and wooden tables, and decorated with pictures of the local village. Food is served all day in two dining areas.

  • 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, our 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 a delicious 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
    • Crusoe Hotel 2 Main Street Lower Largo KY8 6BT Telephone(01333) 320759

      This family run hotel is situated right on the water's edge offers a convenient base while visiting Fife's heritage landmarks and coastal paths.

    • 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.

  • Pitlessie
    • Pitlessie Inn & Pantry Cupar Road Pitlessie KY15 7SU Telephone(01337) 830595

      An old coaching inn, located on the main road between Cupar and Glenrothes, which is decorated with pictures of the maltings that was once opposite. A traditional village pub, right at the heart of the community, which offers locally sourced food and offers a relaxed dining experience. A family run restaurant, bar and pantry, offering coffee, teas and highlights local produce from the surrounding area.

  • 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

      Located between St Andrews’ two main streets North and South street, Aikmans is a two level venue, with the bistro at street level and the cellar bar below. This retro decorated cafe-bar offers a relaxed atmosphere enjoyed by tourists and students alike, be it for quick bite to eat or to sample one of the many beers on offer. In addition to the cask beers, a large range of draft and bottled European beers are available.

    • 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.

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

      One of the few family run pubs in St Andrews, the Criterion was established back in 1874. Situated on one of the main shopping streets in this university town, it is popular with locals, tourists, students and golfers. The famous “Cri-Pie” is served until 11:45pm. In addition to the four cask ales, a large selection of whiskies and gins are stocked. The pub operates a card payment service only. Children (over 5) allowed outside.

    • Rule 116 South Street St Andrews KY16 9QD Telephone(01334) 473473

      Located in the heart of St. Andrews, a watering hole of locals, families and students alike.

    • 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.

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

      The original birth place of the Kingdom of Fife branch of Camra, A Busy corner pub adjacent to the historic West Port and convenient for the bus station, which is popular with the usual mix of locals, tourists, students and golfers. This two levelled building has a busy public bar at the front, with a spacious lounge to the rear.

  • 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