Crail HarbourCrail is a village with a small stone harbour on the waters of the North Sea. The village is built from stone of reddish, honeyed hues and whitewashed walls which lead around the Marketgate with its ancient Tolbooth. Go down Hen’s Ladder to the harbour area where a sweep of stout stone protects boats from the sea and a small tower overlooks the headland.
Crail Pottery is a popular place for visitors. It produces a range of terracotta, stoneware, Raku and earthenware pottery. Come and see creations moulded by hand on the wheel, glazed and then fired in the kiln.
Another renowned spot is Scotland’s Secret Bunker. Beneath an innocent-looking farmhouse is a former nuclear bunker and command centre. It was built during the Cold War years of the 20th century to safeguard Scotland’s top officials from a nuclear attack. A very interesting spot to spend a morning.
An 8-mile stretch of the long-distance Fife Coastal Path links the East Neuk villages of St Monans, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail together. It’s a great nature walk with views over the North Sea to the Isle of May. The route is waymarked but if you get lost, just keep the sea at your side and you can’t go wrong. Take the trail on a bonny day and wear good shoes as some of the route is grassy.
St Andrews is not far if you would like a game of golf and there are many castles and coastline to explore. It’s also the largest town in the area with a broad choice of shops and restaurants, along with supermarkets and petrol stations when it comes to restocking.
“Try out the Fife Coastal Path for lovely waterside walks to remember…”
For a good evening meal, you could have a quality fish supper from the Crail Fish Bar - enjoy the locally caught fish by the harbour as fishing boats land their catch. Crail’s closest Visit Scotland office is in St Andrews, for local tips and information.
Our Crail cottages are perfect if you are looking to enjoy some tranquillity and be inspired by this idyllic little place. Why not visit our collection and feel inspired?