Desperate Dan Statue

There's a bronze statue of Desperate Dan standing in Tayport that catches you completely off guard if you're not expecting it. This is the comic character - all massive chin and manic grin - immortalised in metal right here in Fife, a tribute to the character's creator who hailed from the area. You'll find yourself grinning back at it, honestly. It's free to visit, takes about ten minutes to have a proper look and snap some photos, though families with younger kids who grew up reading DC Thomson comics will get the most out of it.

The statue itself is well-maintained and sits in a spot where you can stand back and take it in without feeling rushed. It's not going to occupy your whole morning, but it makes a decent detour if you're already in Tayport or heading towards it. The town itself is small and pleasant enough - nothing earth-shattering, but worth a wander.

If you're basing yourself at one of the caravan parks nearby - Tayport Links or Larick Campsite, both highly rated - then this fits in nicely as part of a wider coastal amble. It's the kind of thing that works as a quick stop rather than a destination in itself. Kids might find it amusing for five minutes, then want to move on. Adults with a soft spot for vintage British comics will appreciate the nostalgia factor rather more. Free, accessible, no faffing about with opening hours. That's the appeal here.