Leven in Scotland is an enviable vacation spot on the South Coast of Fife, with beaches a stone’s throw away and some of the best sunset views in Scotland. That’s not all, though, because there are plenty of other things to do in Leven!
Leven can be located in the southern Lowlands of Scotland and is a short trip north from the capital city of Edinburgh. The town is named after the Pictish word for ‘flood’, and Loch Leven shares the name.
Nearby, the towns of Methil, Buckham, and Lundin Links are great days out and provide visitors with even more history to dive into. The coal mining industry, with the oil rig on former Wellesley Colliery, is a fascinating story.
Tourism is a big draw to this seaside town. A wide range of excellent accommodation options and attractions make a vacation here packed with fun activities.
Things to Do in Leven
A visit to Leven will leave you spoiled for choice when talking about things to do while on holiday here!
It’s the perfect staycation spot, with great golf courses to test your skill against, stunning beaches that make for an all-weather attraction, and ancient sites for history enthusiasts.
These fantastic attractions, combined with established shops and restaurants along the town’s high street, make any evening in Leven town centre one to remember!
But before you start planning your schedule, see our guide for the top things to do in Leven.
Leven Links Golf Course
Leven Links Golf Course naturally forms around the ancient dunes of Leven, giving an authentic and unique experience.
The course is one of Scotland’s oldest, and golfers in Leven have been playing the sport in some form since 1820! Playing a round on Leven Links’ 18-hole golf course lets you experience the area’s past just as much as any museum!
Come and tee off amidst spectacular views of Leven’s long sandy beaches, with sunset casting the golf course into a spectrum of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Leven Beach
The main beach is within easy walking distance from Leven, especially if you’re staying at one of the lovely accommodation options that sit right across from the east coast beach promenade.
The beach stretches for miles and is a prime spot for a picnic with the family! It’s also not uncommon to see dog-walkers and couples enjoying the magnificent setting sun along the promenade.
When the weather is particularly balmy, there’s nothing better than soaking up the sunshine with the calming sounds of crashing waves and squawking gulls.
Fife Heritage Railway
Right next to the River Leven sits the Fife Heritage Railway, your number one spot for learning about the fascinating railway history of Leven.
This visitor centre is perfect for all ages, and you can learn about various modern and old-timey railway trains from enthusiastic guides! During the middle of the year, the Heritage Railway hosts a car rally and shows off some genuinely retro automobiles.
A trip here is sure to entertain and engage if you have an afternoon free so add it to your list!
Letham Glen
Letham Glen is a tranquil park in the heart of town and a welcome respite from the often lively town centre and high street.
It’s undoubtedly one of Leven’s hidden gems, and the well-cared-for sunken garden is a major draw. Whether you’re winding down an afternoon or going for a refreshing morning stroll, Letham Glen has lots to discover.
Methil Heritage Centre
Just down the road from the East Fife Football Club, Methil Heritage Centre offers those who visit a deeper look into the village’s history and culture.
This fascinating museum holds a large number of artefacts, exhibits, and history of the region’s heritage for all to see. Visiting a historical site is always the best way to get to know a place for the first time, so a trip to this centre is always worth it!
Methil Heritage has been closed during the pandemic, so double-check if it’s open when you visit!
Balgonie Castle
Home to the Laird of Balgonie & Edergoll, Balgonie Castle treats you to an unparalleled experience inside the heart of the Fife Kingdom.
Balgonie Castle has been standing for over 700 years and still contains much of the original furniture, decorations, and impressive architecture of the time. Cinephiles may recognise the castle as a set from ‘Outlander’ and as the inspiration for ‘Game of Thrones” and their infamous Red wedding scene!
Unfortunately, the castle was closed during the pandemic, but it may be open once again when you next visit!
Largo Law
The towering Largo Law was once an ancient plug volcano but now is an outdoor trail beloved by hikers and climbers visiting Leven.
Follow the A915 north east out of Leven, and you’ll soon see this high point of interest. Ascending the 215-metres should take about an hour and a half, but make sure to go on a dry day as the path may be pretty muddy.
From atop the summit, Largo Law grants some of the best panoramic views of East Neuk.
Lundin Golf Club
Lundin Golf Club presents gorgeous views of the Fife coastal path, a challenging 18 holes, and is one of the two courses you can find close to Leven.
The coast of Fife makes wind an additional challenge as you aim to lower your handicap on the beautiful greens of Lundin Golf Club, so bring your A-game!
After conquering this unique course, why not stop by the club and indulge in a hearty food choice as you recall the highs and lows with your partners.
Standing Stones of Lundin
You may not expect to see Neolithic stones in the heart of a village, but a quick trip to Lower Largo, past the north side of Leven, will quickly surprise you!
A stone’s throw away in the town of Lundin, these standing stones have been present since the Bronze Age and form a circular shape. They’re a fascinating way to glance into what life would’ve been like for Bronze Age humans and what rituals may have taken place here.
Levenmouth Leisure Centre
Don’t let foul weather ruin your leisurely holiday in Leven, and come check out this leisure centre in Leven!
The location has world class gym facilities, a modern indoor swimming pool, and much more! Kids will love the water park atmosphere, and adults can spend some time relaxing at the centre’s cafes.
Better yet, you can also hold parties on site and make any birthday in East Neuk one to remember!
Silverburn Park
One of the large parks in Leven, Silverburn Park, is home to a jaw-dropping set of gardens and attractions.
The park sits between Lundin Links and Leven, connecting it with attractions like Silverburn Walled Garden, Fife Coastal Path, and a few spectacular golf courses.
Most visitors’ favourite part of the park is the ability to explore the quiet diversity of the park, with a particular focus on the flax mill building and its woodland valley.
You can even stay and camp within Silverburn Park – perfect for holiday-makers on a road trip all around Scotland!
Other Things To Do in Fife
- Things to do in Anstruther
- Things to do in Burntisland
- Things to do in Cupar
- Things to do in Dunfermline
- Things to do in St Andrews
