Anstruther

Fish and chips have never tasted better than when eaten from paper on the harbour wall, watching the seabirds wheel overhead. This East Neuk fishing village has kept its authenticity while becoming one of Fife's most beloved coastal spots, where working boats still land their catch alongside the pleasure craft.

The harbour remains the heart of everything. Anstruther Fish Bar draws queues that snake down the cobbled streets - and rightly so. Beyond the famous chippy, explore Constantine's Cave, where early Christian monks once sheltered, or take the boat trip to the Isle of May for some proper seabird watching. The puffins are particularly spectacular in summer.

Winding streets climb away from the water, lined with fishermen's cottages that now house galleries, cafes, and the odd antique shop. Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Water Fountain sits rather grandly for such a modest place, while the old Tide Mill speaks to centuries of making do with what the sea provides.

Crail sits just down the coast - barely three miles but worth the short drive for its own perfectly preserved harbour and the excellent Crail Museum and Heritage Centre. Victoria Gardens offers a peaceful spot for a proper sit-down when the coastal walking gets too bracing.

The Fife Coastal Path runs right through town, connecting dozens of small fishing villages along this stretch of coast. St Andrews lies 10 miles north - close enough for a day trip to see the famous golf courses and university buildings.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Sauchope Links or Silverdyke Caravan Park puts you within easy reach of the entire East Neuk. You can explore different villages each day, always returning to the simple pleasure of fresh fish, salt air, and that particular Scottish coastal light that makes everything look like a postcard.