Balgay Hill

The walk up Balgay Hill from Tayport takes about twenty minutes if you're moving at a decent clip, and it's worth every breath. You get proper views across the Tay estuary once you're up there - the kind that make you understand why people settled this coastline in the first place. On a clear day you can see right across to Perthshire. The hill itself isn't tall by Scottish standards, but it punches above its weight for effort versus reward.

It's a straightforward climb with a decent path, though it can get muddy after rain so bring boots you don't mind getting filthy. The whole thing works well for families with older kids and anyone who wants a quick leg-stretcher without committing to a full day's hiking. You could knock this out in an hour and still have time for lunch in town. There's no café up top, so pack supplies if you're planning to sit about and soak in the view.

If you're basing yourself at Tayport Links or Larick Campsite - both excellent spots - this makes a cracking half-day excursion. The campsite location means you're already set up perfectly for exploring the Fife coastline, and Balgay Hill sits nicely as a warm-up hike before you tackle bigger walks in the area. It's not demanding enough to feel like a proper challenge, but it's too good to skip if you're staying nearby.