Walkers now have an extra 17 miles of Fife’s coastline to walk.
The Fife Coastal Path has been extended from its 80 plus miles by an additional 17 miles meaning walkers can start or finish their walk at the region’s western boundary.
Previously the path ended at North Queensferry. But now, after three years of negotiation and discussion, it extends to another Forth crossing at Kincardine Bridge making it around 110 miles long and taking walkers almost to Fife’s border with Clackmannanshire.
Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, the environmental charity responsible for managing and conserving Fife’s countryside, has led the three-year negotiations with local landowners to bring about the extended route.
The recent inclusion of the Kincardine to North Queensferry stretch has seen Fife Coastal Path waymarkers put in place to help guide walkers through a curious blend of modern industry, cultural heritage, valued nature reserve and the iconic bridges.
Five local businesses The Unicorn Inn, The Red Lion Inn, The Elgin Hotel and Restaurant, The Ship Inn and Blether by the Bridge have joined the path’s Welcome Ports scheme designed to provide a warm welcome to walkers, as well as information on their location and transport links.
Alistair Bruce, Dunfermline and West Fife Local Tourism Association chairman and general manager of Keavil House Hotel, said: “The Fife Coastal Path is a fantastic attraction for the region popular with both locals and visitors.
“The formal extension of the path to Kincardine is very welcome and businesses along the route have been extremely supportive in ensuring walkers get the opportunity to explore this part of Fife.
“The Welcome Ports scheme provides walkers with useful information and a great welcome along their way.”
Fife Coast and Countryside Trust’s chief executive Amanda MacFarlane added: “The trust’s aim has always been to extend the Fife Coastal Path the full length of the coastline to reach the region’s boundaries.
“It has taken three years of work to achieve the western extension and we would like to thank partners, local landowners and businesses for their support and enthusiasm.
“The Kincardine to Queensferry 17-mile route offers walkers a varied mix of views including Longannet Power Station, Culross Palace, Rosyth Naval Base and the iconic Forth Bridge.
“In keeping with the rest of the path, Fife Coast and Countryside waymarkers will help guide walkers along their way.”