Markinch to Ceres

Markinch to Ceres – Route Information

As you join the Markinch to Ceres section of the Fife Pilgrim Way, be aware that beyond Markinch the path can be a little  less distinct as it crosses open countryside, particularly between Dalginch and Balcurvie Muir. The Fife Pilgrim Way skirts around Windygates, before passing through Kennoway and on to Bonnybank before climbing the hill to Devon Wood and up Clatto Hill.

The path then passes the eastern end of the Clatto Reservoir, which is a particularly beautiful section of the route. At this point there are just 4 miles left until you arrive in Ceres, which is a charming village with cafés, Fife Folk Museum, Wemyss Ware pottery and accommodation providers. Visit our services and attractions section to find out about businesses along the Fife Pilgrim Way.

The next and final section of the Fife Pilgrim way is Ceres to St Andrews.

Our Fife Pilgrim Way map and Guide Book make excellent companions to your long-distance walk. They, and other Fife Pilgrim Way items, can be purchased in our online shop.

A new Fife Pilgrim Way Passport has been created, which allows walkers to have their passport stamped as they follow the route. Passports can be stamped at the following locations.

Before you set off please visit our Stay Safe in the Countryside page for things to consider when you are in the outdoors. And the Story of Fife Pilgrim Kingdom is an essential read before you embark on this long-distance trail.

Ceres – The night afore

One of the most unspoilt sections of this historic route, the path to Ceres offers a treat for the senses. Enjoy breathtaking views and a spot of wildlife-watching while following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims over the Waterless Way.

The Waterless Way and the Coal Road have guided travellers to and from Ceres for centuries. For medieval pilgrims, Ceres was the last overnight stop before St Andrews. Having journeyed on foot across miles of boggy, uneven ground, on constant high alert for robbers – or worse – it is worth taking a moment to imagine how the weary travellers may have felt at this point.

The current parish church was built in the 1500s on the site of an earlier church. This is where the pilgrims may have offered prayers or received a blessing for their onward journey. As morning broke, the pilgrims would have regrouped and begun the final leg of their journey. As they walked they would be straining their eyes for that first glimpse of the tall spires and towers of St Andrews.

Simon Hessett recent became the Fife Pilgrim Pastor you can visit his webpage here.