Fife Still The Best Place To Beach

Fife still has the highest number of high quality beaches in Scotland according to an environmental charity.

Keep Scotland Beautiful has recognised 14 of the Kingdom's coastal destinations in its 2015 awards.

However Elie's Ruby Bay is the only one to retain the internationally acclaimed Blue Flag status here.

Aberdour Silver Sands, Burntisland, Kinghorn Pettycur, Leven, and Elie Harbour have all lost the coveted status in recent years.

Recognised beaches:

• Aberdour Black Sands, award winner since 2009 
• Aberdour Silver Sands, award winner since 1994 (22 years) 
• Billowness, Anstruther, Rural winner since 2012 
• Burntisland, award winner since 2001 (15 years) 
• Crail Roome Bay, award winner since 1999 (17 years) 
• Elie Harbour, award winner since 2012 
• Elie Ruby Bay, award winner and Blue Flag Since 1999 (16 years) 
• Kinghorn (Pettycur), award winner since 2001 (15 years) 
• Kinghorn Harbour, award winner since 2009 
• Kingsbarns, award winner since 2003 (12 years) 
• Kirkcaldy Seafield, award winner since 2008 
• Leven, award winner since 2008 
• St Andrews East Sands, award winner since 2001 (15 years) 
• St Andrews West Sands, award winner since 1993 (23 years)

Derek Robertson, Chief Executive of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said beaches are "an important asset to communities and their economies."

"It is vital that our coastlines are maintained to the highest standards to continue to attract visitors from near and far. Keep Scotland Beautiful will continue its work to ensure that Scotland’s beaches offer a great day out." He added.

“From bustling promenades to secluded bays, our beaches have something for everyone to enjoy. It is greatly encouraging that such high standards being kept throughout Scotland.” 

Amanda McFarlane, Chief Executive of Fife Coast and Countryside Trust which manages both the beaches and coastal path on behalf of Fife Council, said: “We are thrilled that so many of Fife’s Beaches continue to receive these awards. This is another reason why Fife is the most-visited region in Scotland for outdoor recreation.”