The Wormit Bay to Newburgh section of the Fife Coastal Path passes over rough terrain. It culminates at the commemorative arch at Mugdrum Park, Newburgh.
We have split this section of the path into sections as the landscape and path quality are very different in each. Allow 3 – 5 hours to complete this section of the path.
The Wormit Bay to Balmerino section of 2.5 miles (4km) starts at Wormit Bay Car Park. It weaves a lovely undulating route which runs just above the shoreline of the Firth of Tay leading to Balmerino.
Some sections are steep as you pass through fields and woodlands, but these are very short so don’t be discouraged!
The Balmerino to Newburgh section of the Fife Coastal Path is 11 miles (17.5km) long and quite strenuous. There’s an area of the path where it almost reaches the summit of Norman’s Law which, at 285 metres, is the highest point in north Fife.
On this section the scenery is very varied with pine woodlands, river views, pastoral fields and quiet, narrow roads. Start at Balmerino Abbey where you can park at the roadside. From there head out along the beach path sticking to the Tay shoreline until the lovely woodland at Birkhill.
Follow the woodland path over bridges and dens to reach a large track heading to the road towards Brunton. Follow signs along the road until Norman’s Law comes into view and then climb steadily up and into pine woodland. Through the woods, the path then winds up and over Glenduckie Hill before a beautiful vista and slow descent drops you into Newburgh. In this ancient town, walk along the waterfront and through the coastal path arch to complete this section and the Fife Coastal Path.
You will see a small Scots Pine adjacent to the arch and a plaque commemorating the twinning of the Fife Coastal Path and the Skåneleden Trail in Skåne, Sweden. We hope that twinning our paths will encourage walkers from both sides of the North Sea to explore their love of coastal long-distance routes.
Please be advised that between May and October, the path traverses fields that livestock intermittently use. You may have to walk through an area used by livestock between the Blinky Strip and The Bear. Signs are in place to make you aware. Where livestock are present, please proceed with caution, at your own risk and within your own ability and comfort level. And keep your dogs on leads. Remember the rule that, if you are ever chased by livestock anywhere, you should release your dog.
Remember to record your passing through the arch with a photograph and share it with us!