Burntisland Between Beach, History and the Firth of Forth

Burntisland combines a beach, a rich history and distinctive landscapes on the Firth of Forth. Those planning a trip with varied day-out ideas will find both waterside paths and historic traces, leisure activities and notable viewpoints here. When choosing accommodation in Burntisland, you can therefore consider whether coastal experiences, culture or activities with children should be the focus of your trip.

Beach, Firth of Forth and a Distinctive Volcanic Hill

Burntisland Beach lies east of the town and looks out over the Firth of Forth. The broad sandy beach is characterised by numerous rock pools that can be explored. At exceptionally low tide, extensive areas of sand and mud are exposed. With care, they can be walked across as far as Pettycur Beach, although the tides are crucial to planning.

Another distinctive feature is the Binn. The steep slope consists of basalt and has columnar jointing in places. The Binn is a volcanic plug that has influenced the landscape of Burntisland; its summit lies approximately 600 feet above sea level. This geological character adds a clearly different landscape element to the coastal views.

Historic Routes through Burntisland

Burntisland can also be discovered via its Heritage Trails. The Inner Heritage Trail traces the town’s development from the 16th century to the present day. The Outer Heritage Trail begins at the western corner of the Links, is approximately 4 miles long and passes through the town’s historic and industrial heritage. The two routes have different emphases: one follows the town’s history over several centuries, while the other combines historic and industrial themes.

One of the notable buildings is Rossend Castle. The building is a 16th-century tower house whose ground floor dates from the 13th century. Industrial history is also part of the townscape: Burntisland Shipbuilding Co Ltd was founded in 1918 by Amos and Wilfrid Ayre. At the Museum of Communication at 131 High Street, you can also include another cultural stop in Burntisland. A working model of the harbour shows its condition in 1883.

Experiences on the Water and at the Links

The section of the Fife Coastal Path from Burntisland to Buckhaven runs along the edge of the Firth of Forth. Those who would rather be on the water can consider Burntisland Sailing Club: visitors are welcome on the pontoons, and visitor berths are clearly marked. A boat trip on “Three Bridges and Three Inches” offers another perspective on the coastal landscape. It starts at Burntisland Harbour and passes the Forth Rail Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing.

Burntisland Links also brings together leisure, sport and tradition. Burntisland Golf House Club has a parkland course dating from 1896, designed by Willie Park Jnr. From the club, there are views across the Firth of Forth and towards the Forth Bridges. The Burntisland Highland Games take place on the Links on the third Monday in July. Their history dates back to 1652; they are considered the second-oldest Highland Games in Scotland.

Leisure Ideas for Different Age Groups

For a trip with children, the Links offer several specific options. In summer, there is pitch-and-putt, while play areas are available all year round. A fairground takes place on Burntisland Links every year between May and August. Burntisland Beach adds sand and rock pools to this selection, while the Beacon Leisure Centre has a 25-metre swimming pool with slides and a wave machine.

Two railway underpasses connect Burntisland Links with the coastal path, the beach, the skate park and the Beacon Leisure Centre. The leisure centre is within a short walking distance from Burntisland Beach. This allows you to switch between the beach, exercise, swimming and the facilities on the Links when planning your day, without conflating the different types of experience.

Discover More Places

More places: Falkland, Newport-On-Tay, Blairhall, Saline, Crossford, Peat Inn, Balmullo and Aberdour.

To the main travel overview: Fife.