Pittenweem, a fascinating fishing village on Scotland's Fife Coast

December 01, 2019

Pittenweem Harbour, Fife

This evening, I am posting information on the fishing port of Pittenweem which is situated on the Fife Coast, about eleven miles south of St. Andrews in the east of Scotland and about one hour from Edinburgh.

Pittenweem is one of a chain of historic villages along the Fife Coast all of which display similar architecture dating back hundreds of years.

The name Pittenweem is derived from the Gaelic for ‘cave place’, which is apposite because here can be found St. Fillan’s Cave, named after an early (7th century) Christian missionary. Other information:

A Priory was established at Pittenweem in the 13th century.
The Parish Church also dates from the 13th century and is joined to the Tolbooth.
The harbour (above) dates from the 16th century and still operates as a busy commercial fishing port.with a fish market on site. Additionally, a seafood kiosk now operates during the summer months to sell locally caught seafood direct to tourists and locals.
Today, the town is a popular home for artists and craft people. There is also a chocolate making company in the High Street.
Many tourists are attracted to the town which boasts quaint old cottages with traditional pantile roofs.
Pittenweem is on the route of the Fife Coastal Path, a hiking trail which covers 117 miles.

Kelly Lodge, late 16th century, three storey house in High Street.