How To Visit Elie Ness Lighthouse, Fife
Visiting Elie in Fife and looking for things to do? Then take a walk along the coastal path to Elie Ness Lighthouse. Here’s how.
When I walked the Fife Coastal Path earlier this year, Elie Ness Lighthouse was one of my favourite spots along the trail.
I’d seen this little lighthouse on Instagram and other travel blogs and from there it made it’s way onto my Fife bucket list. Surrounded by the most glorious coastal views and little sandy coves, Elie Ness Lighthouse sits on rocky peninsula, jutting out into the Firth of Forth.
It’s a tiny lighthouse, gleaming white thanks to recent restoration efforts, and incredibly quaint.
This is an excellent spot to visit on a day trip from Edinburgh, as you explore Fife’s East Neuk. Or whilst you walk the Fife Coastal Path.
Here’s how to visit Elie Ness Lighthouse.
Where is Elie Ness Lighthouse?
You’ll find Elie Ness Lighthouse in the village of Elie.
Elie is about 45-miles north of Edinburgh, on Scotland’s east coast. It lies in the East Neuk of Fife, an area of Scotland synonymous with coastal views, idyllic harbour villages, and sandy beaches.
The easiest way to get to Elie is to drive - it only takes an hour from Edinburgh and the majority of the road is on the M90 motorway. I’d definitely recommend this option. It’s the quickest way and it gives you more freedom, if you want to visit anywhere else afterward like Crail or St Monans.
However, there’s also a regular bus service from Edinburgh, which you can find here.
How to visit Elie Ness Lighthouse
Once you arrive in Elie, park at Ruby Bay car park (here on Google Maps). From the car park, you can see Elie Ness Lighthouse in the distance and it’s only a 5-minute walk on the coastal path.
Start by following the coastal path signpost, then follow the trail to the right towards Elie Ness. It’s a really easy, flat trail, although it can be muddy after rain. Also be aware that this is an incredibly exposed peninsula and can be blustery, so bring a warm jacket!
The best time to visit Elie Ness Lighthouse is early in the morning or early evening, when the light is especially beautiful.
Elie Ness Lighthouse history
A little Elie Ness Lighthouse history. The lighthouse was first lit in 1908, as a beacon and guiding light for ships passing this rocky cliffside. Fully restored in 2010, nowadays Elie Ness Lighthouse and the keeper’s cottage are maintained by the the Elie Ness Historical Society and Forth Ports. And the light still shines brightly to this day.
Elie Ness Lighthouse Viewpoints
The best viewpoints of Elie Ness Lighthouse are undoubtedly from down on the little sandy beaches, so be sure to explore the coves along the way. For a different vantage point, walk down to Ruby Bay, a wonderful little beach next to the car park. From here you’ll see Elie Ness Lighthouse across the bay.
Practical travel tips
Wear
Elie Ness Lighthouse sits on an exposed peninsula, and it can be blustery.
So bring a warm jacket, like this one.
Footwear
It can also be muddy, especially after the rain.
So sturdy shoes or boots are a good idea, like these.
Car rental
If you’re visiting Fife and want to explore the coast, then having a car might be useful.
For inexpensive car hire, I recommend Rentalcars.com
Fife Travel Guide
Finally, if you’re looking for Fife inspiration, then check out my digital travel guide.
It has everything you need to create the perfect coastal Fife itinerary.
Other things to do in Elie
After a visit to Elie Ness Lighthouse you’ll want to visit Elie. A small town, my advice is simply follow your feet around the quaint streets. Elie’s beaches are a great place to start, as they’re honestly some of the best in Scotland. One of the best ways to see them, and Elie Ness Lighthouse, is to follow the Fife Coastal Path. Or if you want to get out on the water, then the crystal clear waters at Ruby Bay are perfect for swims or SUPs.
Alternatively, read my things to do in Elie guide for inspiration.
Elie restaurants
Luckily, there’s a really excellent restaurant / bar just a few minute’s walk from Elie Ness Lighthouse. As restaurants go, The Ship Inn is pretty special, especially on a sunny day - you’ll find the most gorgeous coastal views from their beer garden. Try and time your visit with a G&T or coffee overlooking the water. The menu here is varied but as it’s by the sea expect delicious seafood.
Alternatively, stop by Elie Deli on your way into town and collect ingredients for a beach picnic. They have a selection of delicious savoury produce and sweet treats, like quiche, cheeses, cold meats, breads, and cakes. Plus, they do really good takeaway coffee.
I’ve also rounded up my favourite Elie restaurants for more foodie inspiration.
