Kellie Castle

Rising from the Fife countryside like something from a fairy tale, this 16th-century tower house presents one of Scotland's finest examples of domestic castle architecture. The distinctive conical turrets and crow-stepped gables make Kellie Castle instantly recognisable - and rather romantic if you're that way inclined.

Most visitors are struck by how lived-in it feels. The National Trust for Scotland has done a cracking job preserving the interiors, complete with Victorian and Edwardian furnishings that belonged to the Lorimer family. Professor James Lorimer rescued the castle from ruin in 1878, and his son Robert - a renowned architect - left his mark throughout.

Children will love the winding staircases and secret corners, though the steep stone steps might challenge very little ones. The painted ceilings are particularly fine, especially in the Earl's Room where original 17th-century decoration survives.

History enthusiasts get the full story here - from medieval origins through Victorian restoration. The gardens are lovely too, with old-fashioned roses and a proper walled garden that's well worth exploring.

From Anstruther it's a short drive inland, making it an easy addition to any East Neuk touring. Several holiday parks dot the coast nearby, including St Monans Holiday Park and Elie Holiday Park, so you could easily combine castle-hunting with seaside days. Allow a good two hours if you want to see both house and gardens properly.