The Scottish coastal walk that ends at country's 'best chippy' perfect for January hike
For the Daily Record's first proper Walk of the Week of 2025, we are venturing to Fife — where there is a gorgeous coastal walk that ends up at "Scotland's best fish and chip shop".
All over Scotland, people are struggling through extra-chilly conditions as we near the middle of January.
With the temperatures so low, it can be easy to want to stay cosy inside. However, so long as you wrap up warm and wear proper hiking boots, now is a great time to get out and immerse yourself in Scotland's natural beauty.
The Daily Record is back with our first proper Walk of the Week of 2025, and this time it is the Crail to Anstruther Coastal Route. A small section of the larger Fife Coastal Path that links the Forth and Tay Estuaries, the walk takes in some absolutely spectacular coastal views.
According to experts at AllTrails, the Crail to Anstruther Coastal Route is a there-and-back hike between the two towns that should take around three hours to complete. You can also just end the hike once you get to Anstruther, for a shorter walk of around 90 minutes.
Considered "moderately challenging", the route is very popular amongst hikers and runners. However, at this time of year, you should still be able to enjoy peace and quiet.
All along the walk, you will be treated to gorgeous views out towards the North Sea. Meanwhile, both Ansthruter and Crail are home to a variety of charming stores and eateries.
In particular, the Anstruther Fish Bar is the "best fish and chip shop" in the country, according to VisitScotland. Whether you are heading back to Crail afterward or are staying in Anstruther for the night, it is the perfect stopping point.
Keep reading for a few photos showing some of the Crail to Anstruther Coastal Route's highlights. Meanwhile, more information can be found on the AllTrails website.
You can also find a selection of the Daily Record's previous Walks of the Week below:
The small loch near Scotland's 'cosiest pub' perfect for New Year walk
The 'perfect' Scotland Christmas Day walk near cosy and friendly pub
The Scottish 'story book' winter walk that ends at cosy pub with Christmas menu
The Scottish castle with winter walks and charming Christmas market this weekend
The 'magnificent' Scottish Highlands monument walk near Scotland's 'Pub of the Year'
The Scottish ruins 'on the edge of the world' perfect for November walk
The Scottish 'beginner's Munro' with spectacular views perfect for November hike
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The walk begins in the gorgeous little burgh of Crail. Before setting off, why not take a look around its lovely cobbled streets and miniature harbour.
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Seen here are the steps leading away from Crail along the Fife Coastal Path. As you can see, the views out across the water are simply incredible.
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The Fife Coastal Path was first launched in 2002, when it ran between North Queensferry and Tayport. Nowadays, it sees around 500,000 visitors every year — with more than 3,000 walking the entire route annually.
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The highlight of the stretch between Crail and Anstruther might be the Caiplie Caves. This breathtaking cave system was used by farmers to house livestock hundreds of years ago, as well as for Christian worship as far back as the 9th century.
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Finally, once you reach Anstruther, there is no better reward than a visit to the Anstruther Fish Bar. Named as the "best fish and chip shop in Scotland" by VisitScotland, the restaurant offers gorgeous views out over the harbour and serves up everything from fish suppers to lobster and crab.
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