Burntisland has a plethora of fun things to do! From a fairground that makes the town famous during peak summer season to a lighthouse tour with reenactors, there are plenty of unique experiences.
There’s also the Beach Leisure Centre where kids and adults can make a splash! And for those who like to get active on vacation, the Fife Coastal Path is the way to go.
Dodhead Gold Course
There’s plenty of fun things to do in Burntisland, from golfing at the tenth oldest course in the world to touring the town’s heritage. There are beaches and castles, and it’s also the ideal spot for hiking along Fife Coastal Path, a 183-kilometre trail with scenic views of the countryside and coastline.
One of the top sights in town is Inchcolm Abbey on its namesake island, a 12-century abbey that’s surrounded by wildlife and scenic cliffs. You can also visit castles and historic churches close by, including Rossend Castle and Mary Somerville’s House, which honors the pioneer of women’s education in Scotland.
Families can enjoy a day out at Beach Leisure Centre, a modern attraction with fun activities that cater to kids of all ages. The children can have a blast in the wave machine and pool, while adults can relax with a piping hot cup of coffee. In case of bad weather, the centre offers indoor facilities, too! You can also play a round of golf at Dodhead Gold Course, overlooking the Firth of Forth.
Beach Leisure Centre
There are a multitude of family-friendly activities at the Beach Leisure Centre. Children can have fun with the wave machine and pool, while adults can get in a workout with the health club’s equipment and sea view.
The facility is a Get Active venue with a family-orientated swimming pool complete with a fountain, rapids and four flumes. The gym offers modern and fully equipped equipment as well as fitness classes from Les Mills, such as Body Pump and Body Combat. A large versatile sports hall and cafe are also on offer.
The town has plenty of history and exciting places to explore, including the 12th century Rossend Castle, once visited by Mary Somerville, a pioneer of women’s education in Scotland, and the octagonal towered Parish Church, reputedly the first new Post-Reformation church in Scotland. A number of walking and cycling routes can be explored around the area, while local heritage trust guided walks are offered throughout the year. The High Street offers a variety of independent and family-run shops, while the Beach Leisure Centre is home to a swimming pool, health suite and gym.
Burnt Island Lighthouse Tour
Whether you are a local or just passing through, this beautiful destination has a little something to offer everyone. From stunning beaches to fun activities like the Burntisland Highland Games, it’s easy to find a way to fill up your day. You can also immerse yourself in Scottish culture at the Rossend Castle or check out the Museum of Communication.
The Burnt Island Lighthouse Tour is a popular attraction for families. Visitors can take a two-and-a-half hour tour of the lighthouse and enjoy the breathtaking view from the top. It’s also a great place for family photos. The lighthouse is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. A suggested donation of $2.00 per person is appreciated.
The tour is staffed by a former lighthouse keeper, his wife, and his son. The volunteers are extremely knowledgeable about the lighthouse and its history. You can also take a scenic cruise out of Boothbay Harbor to visit the lighthouse. The boat departs several times a week. The lighthouse is also accessible to recreational boaters on calm days.
Rossend Castle
Burntisland is a seaside town brimming with unique attractions and things to do. While the sandy beach is a highlight, it’s also home to a modern leisure centre, seaside park, crazy golf course and a plethora of takeaway shops, cafes and pubs.
The town is also home to the Rossend Castle, a beautiful 12th century castle with a 16th-century base. It was one of the most visited castles by Mary Queen of Scots, who stayed there in 1562. It was later occupied by Cromwell’s soldiers and was bought in the 17th century by the Wemyss family, who remodelled its top floor.
The town’s octagonal towered Parish Church is also worth visiting, as it is believed to be the first new post-Reformation church in Scotland. There is a wealth of history in Burntisland, which can be discovered through local exhibitions and guided walks. Visitors can also enjoy the annual Burntisland Highland Games, which usually takes place in June or July and is the oldest in Scotland.
Burntisland Highland Games
The Burntisland Highland Games are held on the third Monday of July, and are Scotland’s second oldest highland games dating back to 1652. The Games are a family-friendly event and are dog friendly as well. Visitors can enjoy live music, highland dancing, tossing the caber, cycling, heavyweight and track races. There is also a fairground on the Links all summer, and visitors are encouraged to bring picnics.
Other attractions in the town include Rossend Castle, a 12th century historic castle that was once visited by Mary Somerville. The town also has an octagonal towered church and a surviving town truss bridge that is a Grade C listed structure. The town is served by a railway station that is located beside the beach and offers step-free access to most platforms.
Whether you want to delve into Fife’s fascinating history, play golf, ride rollercoasters or shop for souvenirs, there is something for everyone in Burntisland! You can even learn about the history of Scottish King Alexander III at the nearby monument where he fell from his horse.
