St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - Falkland, the Outlander Filming Location

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh

Discover historic towns, picturesque fishing villages, and scenic drives on this 9-hour tour from Edinburgh to St Andrews, Falkland, and the Fife coast.

The St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh offers an engaging way to explore some of Scotland’s most iconic spots in a single day. For $77.29 per person, this approximately 9-hour journey is led by a knowledgeable driver-guide who shares stories, history, and local facts. The tour begins at 192 High St, Edinburgh, and includes several memorable stops, such as the Forth Road Bridge, the charming fishing village of Anstruther Harbour, the historic town of St Andrews, and the quaint Falkland village, known for its Outlander filming locations. The tour is suitable for most travelers and boasts a highly positive 4.7/5 rating based on 47 reviews, with 91% recommending it.

While this tour provides a fantastic overview of Fife’s highlights, it does not include entry to St Andrews Castle or the Palace and Gardens in Falkland, and food and drinks are not included, so planning for meals is recommended. The small group size of up to 35 travelers ensures a more personal experience, and the driver/guide makes the journey lively and informative. This trip is a good choice for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic taste of east Scotland in a single day.

Key Points

  • Affordable price at $77.29 for a full-day exploration of Fife’s coastline and historic towns.
  • Starts at 9:30 am from Edinburgh’s High Street, with a flexible 9-hour itinerary.
  • Includes stops at Forth Road Bridge, Anstruther Harbour, St Andrews, and Falkland.
  • Guided by professional driver-guides with many reviews highlighting their knowledge, storytelling, and humor.
  • Not including entry fees or meals, so budget accordingly for attractions and food.
  • Highly rated experience with a 4.7/5 score from 47 reviews, emphasizing the quality of storytelling and scenic stops.

From the Old Town to the Fife Coast: The Departure and Scenic Drive

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - From the Old Town to the Fife Coast: The Departure and Scenic Drive

The tour begins at 192 High St, Edinburgh, with a 9:30 am departure. After leaving the historic Old Town, the group makes a quick 15-minute stop at the Forth Road Bridge to take in the views and stretch legs. The bridge crossing offers stunning scenery of the Forth estuary and the iconic Three Bridges structure, perfect for photos and a brief breather before heading deeper into Fife. The drive is comfortable, and the driver-guide often shares quick facts about Edinburgh’s skyline and the surrounding landscape, setting an engaging tone for the day.

Enjoying the Quaint Charm of Anstruther Harbour

Next, the tour visits the picturesque fishing village of Anstruther, which has a reputation as one of Fife’s most charming harbors. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving visitors enough time to stroll along the waterfront, admire the traditional boats, and absorb the tranquil seaside atmosphere. Although there’s no admission fee, the village’s standout feature is its authentic fishing history and the opportunity to see local boats bobbing in the harbor. Some may choose to grab a quick snack or simply enjoy the view before continuing on.

The Historic and Cultural Allure of St Andrews

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - The Historic and Cultural Allure of St Andrews

The highlight for many is the stopping point at St Andrews, where visitors have about 3 hours to explore independently. The town is famous worldwide as the home of golf and has a deep historical significance, with ruins of St Andrews Castle and the iconic St Andrews Cathedral. While entry to the castle and cathedral is not included, the guide provides tips for visiting these sites, allowing guests to prioritize their own interests. Many visitors walk along the charming streets, browse local shops, or take photos of the famous University of St Andrews. The town’s blend of history, culture, and scenery makes it a rewarding stop.

Falkland, the Outlander Filming Location

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - Falkland, the Outlander Filming Location

The tour then moves to Falkland, a village known for its appearance in the Outlander series and its well-preserved historic charm. The group has about 1 hour here, during which they can visit Mrs. Bairds B&B (known as The Covenant Hotel Cottage) or pay to enter the Palace and Gardens, which are closed from November 1 to February 28, 2025. The village exudes a peaceful, timeless atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a quick look at the Palace, with its gardens providing picturesque views, or simply wander the streets and soak in the film-set ambiance.

Practical Details and Group Size

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - Practical Details and Group Size

This tour is operated by Highland Experience Tours, with a maximum of 35 travelers ensuring a more intimate experience. The driver/guide is central to the experience, with reviews praising guides like Graham, Brody, Fergus, and John for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly personalities. The tour is accessible, with service animals allowed, and is suitable for most travelers, though children under 3 years are not accepted.

The Pacing and Time at Stops

Most reviews highlight the well-paced nature of the trip, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights. However, some note the short duration at certain locations, especially the stops in Fife villages, which may feel rushed for those wanting a deeper exploration. The 3 hours at St Andrews balances sightseeing and free time well, allowing visitors to walk, shop, or dine.

Food and Additional Attractions

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - Food and Additional Attractions

Since food and drinks are not included, travelers should plan for meals during the day. The tour does not include a stop at Kingsbarns Distillery, despite some confusion in listings. Some reviews mention the distillery as an attraction they expected but was not part of the itinerary, emphasizing the importance of reviewing what’s included before booking.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh - Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is conveniently located on High Street in Edinburgh, near public transportation. The tour’s small to medium group size makes for a relaxed atmosphere, and most reviews describe the experience as informative and enjoyable. The driver/guide offers anecdotes and historical insights along the drive, making the journey engaging and educational.

Value and Overall Experience

Priced at $77.29, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the scenic stops and guided narration. The 4.7/5 review score reflects high satisfaction, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. While some note the shorter stops at certain locations, the overall experience is praised for its balance of guided commentary and free exploration time.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip suits visitors looking for a comprehensive day trip from Edinburgh to explore Fife’s charming villages, historic towns, and stunning coastal views. It’s ideal for those who enjoy storytelling, scenic drives, and flexible free time to explore on their own. Travelers interested in Outlander filming locations or golf history in St Andrews** will also find this tour appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Edinburgh Fife Tour

The St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour delivers a well-rounded experience of east Scotland’s highlights at an accessible price. The scenic drives, charming villages, and historic sites promise plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments. The guides’ storytelling adds a layer of warmth and insight, making the trip both informative and enjoyable.

However, potential travelers should be aware that entry fees and meals are not included, and some stops may feel rushed. If you prefer a more in-depth experience at each location, consider supplementing this tour with additional visits. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for those wanting an engaging, scenic, and flexible day out of Edinburgh.

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St Andrews, Falkland and Fife Villages Tour from Edinburgh



4.5

(47 reviews)

“We did the trip on our second day in Scotland (first time visiting) and it was an excellent experience!”

— Victoria P, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $77.29 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:30 am.

Which locations are included in the stops?
Stops include Forth Road Bridge, Anstruther Harbour, St Andrews, and Falkland.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; plan for meals separately.

Is entry to St Andrews Castle included?
No, admission is not included, so visitors can choose how to explore the castle and cathedral independently.

Can children participate?
Children under 3 years are not accepted, but most other travelers can join.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Are the stops rushed?
Most reviews say enough time is provided, especially at St Andrews, though some feel the Fife villages could have more exploration time.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is described as comfortable, and the driver/guide offers engaging commentary throughout the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, with full refunds provided accordingly.