The Story of Fife Pilgrim Kingdom

Publish Date: Thursday April 20, 2023

A brutal murder, a Royal love story, ancient monuments, industrial heritage and spectacular views. The Fife Pilgrim Way has it all. Immerse yourself in its history, folklore and landscape in The Story of Fife Pilgrim Kingdom.

A beautifully illustrated map and evocative pictures bring the route to life for locals and visitors. It’s an essential companion whether you enjoy walking the trail daily or want the challenge of completing the full 64 miles.

The Fife Pilgrim Way was opened to the public in July 2019. It links up the Firth of Forth with the ultimate pilgrimage destination of St Andrews. Pilgrimage shaped Fife. Many of the Kingdom’s roads, bridges and crossing points, including the famous Queen’s Ferry, were created hundreds of years ago. These were designed to ease the way for the steady stream of pilgrims.

You might choose to start in the charming village of Culross, famous for its ochre-painted palace and steep cobbled lanes. Or start in North Queensferry, in the shadow of the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Scotland’s newest city

Both points lead to Dunfermline, Scotland’s newest city, where King Malcolm and St Margaret’s union began 950 years ago.

The Fife Pilgrim Way winds through the coal mining heartlands to the Kingdom’s sacred landscape near Glenrothes. Further on, at Strathkinness, discover the darker side of Fife’s history and Archbishop James Sharp’s brutal murder. On arrival in St Andrews you’ll find the atmospheric ruins of one of Europe’s largest cathedrals.

FCCT manages the Fife Pilgrim Way, which it developed in partnership with Fife Council, local communities, volunteers and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Why not download the new Fife Pilgrim Way leaflet and maps from FCCT’s website. A full route map, t-shirts, pin badge, enamel mug and other accessories are for sale in our online shop.

FCCT acknowledges the support of Dr Ian Bradley, whose book ‘The Fife Pilgrim Way’ was an invaluable tool in the development of The Story of the Pilgrim Kingdom. You can also purchase this book in our online shop.

If you have any questions about the Fife Pilgrim Way, that are not answered on our website or in our literature, then please email Ask.Us@fifecountryside.co.uk or phone 01592 656080.