brown and green rocks on beach during daytime

About the East Neuk of Fife

  • Anstruther (includes Anstruther Easter and Anstruther Wester)

  • Arncroach

  • Balcormo

  • Boarhills

  • Carnbee

  • Cellardyke

  • Colinsburgh

  • Crail

  • Drumeldrie

  • Dunino

  • Elie and Earlsferry

  • Kilconquhar and Barnyards

  • Kilrenny

  • Kingsbarns

  • Largoward

  • Lower Largo

  • Lundin Links

  • Pittenweem

  • St Monans (also spelled St Monance)

  • Upper Largo

Towns and Villages
Parishes

The East Neuk of Fife, a picturesque coastal region in eastern Scotland, comprises several historic parishes and villages. While the exact boundaries can vary, the following are commonly recognized as part of the East Neuk:

  1. Anstruther

  2. Carnbee

  3. Crail

  4. Elie and Earlsferry

  5. Kilconquhar

  6. Kilrenny (including Cellardyke)

  7. Kingsbarns

  8. Pittenweem

  9. St Monans

These parishes encompass the charming fishing villages and inland communities that define the East Neuk's unique character. Each offers a blend of historical significance, architectural interest, and coastal beauty.

man in white cowboy hat riding white horse during daytime

Notable Local Families

The East Neuk of Fife, a picturesque region along Scotland's eastern coastline, has historically been home to several prominent families of landed gentry and nobility. Based on available historical records, here is an alphabetical list of notable families and individuals associated with this area:

Anstruther Family

  • Sir John Anstruther, 1st Baronet: A significant figure in the 18th century, he served as a Member of Parliament and held various governmental positions.

  • Sir Robert Anstruther, 1st Baronet: Known for his contributions to local governance and land management in Fife.

  • Sir Ralph Anstruther: A distinguished member of the family, recognized for his service and estate management.

Note: The Anstruther family has been closely associated with the town of Anstruther and its surrounding areas, playing a vital role in the region's development.

Balfour Family

  • Robert Balfour, 2nd Lord Balfour of Burleigh: Held significant estates in Fife and was active in Scottish politics during the 17th century.

Bethune Family

  • Sir Alexander Bethune, 10th Baronet: A notable landowner in Fife, with the family seat located at Balfour House.

Erskine Family

  • Sir Charles Erskine, 1st Baronet of Alva: Acquired the Cambo Estate in 1668, which remains associated with the family.

  • Sir William Erskine, 1st Baronet: Played a role in local and national affairs during his tenure.

Gilmour Family

  • Sir John Gilmour, 2nd Baronet: Held estates in Fife and contributed to regional development.

  • Sir John Gilmour, 3rd Baronet: Continued the family's legacy in landownership and public service.

Gourlay Family

  • Sir Thomas Gourlay of Kincraig: The Gourlay family held lands at Kincraig, with records dating back to the 14th century.

Learmonth Family

  • George Learmonth of Balcomie: A 16th-century landowner, his family was associated with Balcomie Castle near Crail.

  • James Learmonth of Balcomie: Son of George, he played a role in local governance and land management.

Lindsay Family

  • Alexander Lindsay, 1st Earl of Balcarres: Established the family's prominence in Fife, with Balcarres House as the family seat.

  • Colin Lindsay, 3rd Earl of Balcarres: Noted for his political involvement and support of the Jacobite cause.

Leslie Family

  • George Leslie, 1st Earl of Rothes: Held significant lands in Fife, with Leslie House serving as the family residence.

  • Norman Leslie, 19th Earl of Rothes: Continued the family's influence in the region during the 19th century.

Nairn Family

  • Sir Michael Nairn, 1st Baronet: Acquired Elie House in the 19th century, with the family contributing to local industry and philanthropy.

Spens Family

  • Sir James Spens of Wormiston: A diplomat and soldier, he held estates near Crail and was active in international affairs during the early 17th century.

Wemyss Family

  • James Wemyss, Lord Burntisland: Held lands in Fife and was involved in Scottish politics during the 17th century.

These families have played significant roles in the history and development of the East Neuk of Fife. Their estates, contributions to local governance, and involvement in national affairs have left lasting legacies in the region.