Fife Coastal Path

The Fife Coastal Path stretches for miles along Scotland's east coast - and yes, I said Scotland, not England, despite what the listings suggest. Starting near Leven, this is proper walking country: dramatic cliffs, sandy bays, and on a clear day, views across the Forth that'll stop you mid-stride.

You don't tackle the whole thing in one go. Most people pick a section - the walk between Earlsferry and Kincraig is particularly good, with the path weaving between rocky outcrops and little coves. The terrain varies wildly: some stretches are dead easy, others have you scrambling over boulders and negotiating steep drops. Bring proper boots, not trainers.

It's brilliant for walkers who've had enough of manicured trails. Birdwatchers get excited about the cliff-nesting species. Families can do shorter segments without losing their minds - the stretch near St Monans has a lovely village at the end where you can grab fish and chips. Older kids who like a bit of adventure will love it; toddlers will hate the uneven ground.

The path is free, obviously. Allow half a day minimum for any meaningful section. Spring and early summer are best - fewer midges, wildflowers, nesting birds. Winter's dramatic but bleak.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - St Monans, Elie, or Forth House - the path becomes your daily walk rather than a one-off trip. That's when it really earns its place in your week.