Bankie Park

The walk down to Bankie Park catches you by surprise. You're suddenly among coastal scrubland and wildflower meadows that feel properly remote, even though Anstruther's fish and chips shops are barely a mile away. It's a small nature reserve - we're talking an hour's comfortable wander rather than a full day's expedition - but it's the sort of place that rewards the detour if you're the type who gets excited about spotting nesting birds or picking your way along the shoreline.

What you get is coastal heath with views across the Firth, a bit of tidal access when conditions allow, and the kind of quiet that the East Neuk desperately needs more of. The paths are well-worn but unmanicured, which means it can get boggy underfoot. Proper footwear essential. Families with young children might find it a touch limited - there's not really enough going on to occupy a reluctant five-year-old for long - but keen birdwatchers and walkers looking for something beyond the obvious will find it worthwhile.

There's no visitor centre, no café, no facilities to speak of. Bring what you need. The reserve is free to access, and honestly feels like a genuine local spot rather than something curated for tourists.

If you're caravan-based at Silverdyke or Kilrenny Mill, both practically on your doorstep, Bankie Park works as a morning escape before heading into Anstruther proper for lunch. Combine it with a coastal walk towards Crail or St Monans for a proper afternoon.