Activities for Kids and Families in Fife, Scotland

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St Andrews and Fife have been a popular family destination for generations, and its appeal is as strong as ever.

Indoors and out, there are lots of things for children of all ages to enjoy. Here are just a few suggestions

Aquarium – seals, meerkats and fish (of course) never fail to entertain young visitors to St Andrews Aquarium.
Beaches – an essential part of every St Andrews experience! there are two main beaches, both winners of Blue Flag and Seaside Awards. Re-create the memorable scene from “Chariots of Fire” (which was filmed here) by running in slow motion along the golden West Sands, or enter one of the summertime sandcastle competitions. East Sands is a more sheltered beach, and with its adjacent play area, is often the better choice for younger children. Both beaches have toilets and cafes. There are other beaches throughout the East Neuk most notably the stunning example at Elie.
Castle and Cathedral – every kid loves a castle and St Andrews Castle is particularly exciting, with a dungeon, drawbridge and long dark tunnels to explore. For older children, the ascent of St Rule’s Tower at the nearby Cathedral is great fun (adult supervision is required).
Cinema – The three screens of the New Picture House Cinema always offer something suitable for younger viewers during school holidays.
Putting – A great way to get the kids started and where better than “The Himalayas” Putting Green adjacent to the second tee of The Old Course.
Horse and Pony Riding – Barbarafield Riding School a few miles inland from St Andrews offers riding experiences for all ages, from beginners to experts as does Scholland Equestrian in Kilconquhar which is closer to the coastal villages.
Museums – all of the Fife’s museums are excellent places to take children, and they often stage extra activities during the school holidays. Check day out with the kids website for more information about each of the museums.
Parks and Gardens – In St Andrews, there are playgrounds at East Sands and Cockshaugh Park (follow signs for Lade Braes Walk). Nearby, St Andrews Botanic Garden welcomes many children each year, with one of its glasshouses set up as a fun learning centre. Just outside town, Craigtoun Country Park has acres of grass, play areas and in summer other attractions like a miniature train.
Swimming Pool – East Sands Leisure Centre has a pool, giant flume and fun aqua inflatable, together with steam room, spa bath, gym and cafe. The whole family can also look forward to a brilliant day out in Dundee at one of Scotland’s newest leisure pools. Thrill seekers can try out the 4 innovative flumes, with the bravest of all daring to try the cannonball with its 3.8m drop. The leisure pool also includes a rapid river, waves and bubble beds.
Water Sports – older children and teenagers can choose from a host of exciting activities offered by Blown Away (at West Sands in St Andrews), or, just round the coast, East Neuk Outdoors and Elie Watersports.