Centuries of Stories
A past written in stone and sea
Crail dates from at least as far back as the Pictish period — the place-name includes the Pictish element caer, meaning 'fort'. There is a Dark Age cross-slab preserved in the parish church, dedicated to the early holy man St. Maelrubha. Built around a harbour, Crail has a wealth of vernacular buildings from the 17th–19th centuries, many of which have been restored by the National Trust for Scotland.
Crail once had a royal castle above the harbour which is still visible as an open garden, though little of the structure remains. The village received its Royal Burgh charter in 1310, making it one of the oldest burghs in Scotland. Crail is also host to one of Scotland's oldest golf courses — Balcomie, which has been in use since the 1850s but was formally laid out by Old Tom Morris Sr in 1894.
Crail Tolbooth & Marketgate
The Tolbooth dates from the 16th century and overlooks the historic Marketgate, where traders have gathered for over 700 years. Crail was once one of the busiest trading ports in Scotland.
Crail Museum & Heritage Centre
Learn about the village's fascinating history, from its days as a major trading port to its fishing heritage. The museum is run by enthusiastic volunteers with deep knowledge of the area.
St Andrews Cathedral & Castle
Just 10 miles away, the ruins of Scotland's largest medieval cathedral and the dramatic clifftop castle are among the most impressive historic sites in the country.
Kellie Castle (NTS)
A beautiful National Trust for Scotland property just outside Crail, Kellie Castle dates from the 14th century and is surrounded by lovely gardens and woodland walks.
The Secret Bunker
A remarkable Cold War relic hidden beneath a Fife farmhouse — Scotland's Secret Bunker is a fascinating underground complex that was designed to house government officials during a nuclear attack.
Falkland Palace (NTS)
The stunning Renaissance palace of the Stuart monarchs, set in the charming village of Falkland. Mary Queen of Scots was a frequent visitor.
Isle of May
A National Nature Reserve accessible by boat from Anstruther, the Isle of May has ruins of Scotland's first lighthouse and a 12th-century monastery, alongside spectacular seabird colonies.
Step back in time from the Honeypot
With centuries of history on your doorstep, Crail is the perfect base for history lovers exploring the East Neuk and beyond.
Book Your Stay
