Hidden gem UK village with sea views and so much charm | UK | Travel

Summer is over for another year, and while this might be sad news for some, try to look on the bright side: we finally get a break from the stifling heatwaves and sleepless nights, and it’s still bright and sunny enough to enjoy a fun day trip or two.

An autumnal beach trip is one of my favourite things to do, and the UK has plenty of amazing spots. One coastal village I visited at the end of winter this year quickly became one of my favourites, and I can’t wait to go back. Admittedly it’s a small place with not many attractions, but it boasts a welcoming pub and restaurant, spectacular sea views and sits close to another well-known seaside destination.

Lower Largo in Fife has a population of approximately 2,300, and it’s one of the most picturesque spots I’ve ever seen.

The charming little village looks out over Largo Bay, on the northern shore of the Firth of Forth in Scotland. The drive from Glasgow takes roughly an hour and a half, while from Edinburgh it’s an hour away.

Largo is a historic fishing village split into two distinct parts — Lower and Upper — with the small village of Lundin Links nestled just to the left. You won’t find amusement arcades or hordes of tourists here, and it has a far more tranquil atmosphere than other coastal spots I’ve visited this year.

But don’t be deterred by the absence of attractions. The unhurried pace of life was utterly charming, and I’m already counting down the days until I can return.

Waking up to those magnificent views was an immediate lift to the spirits, particularly with the sun shining overhead. The crisp temperature didn’t matter – the scenery was flawless, and the bracing seaside air was wonderfully invigorating.

Lower Largo’s coastline features a combination of sand and rocks, and it’s immaculate. We spotted numerous dog walkers making the most of the location, and even witnessed one daring person diving into the sea, which must have been exhilarating once the initial icy sensation passed.

The nearby streets were equally charming to wander through. It’s relatively quiet, meaning you’ll scarcely come across any cars, but you will stumble upon some impressively decorated front gardens.

The maritime theme featured prominently, with garden gates displaying pirates, fish and mermaids.

We enjoyed breakfast at The Aurrie, a charming cafe within a converted church that had such a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Works from local artists covered the walls and were on sale, alongside a superb selection of hot meals, coffees, and a cake counter brimming with choices.

I went for the veggie haggis and potato scone roll with a flat white, and it was delightful.

Throughout our stay, we also dined at The Crusoe, another beautifully hospitable four-star hotel boasting a restaurant and pub. It offers all the classic pub staples you’d expect, from mac and cheese to fish and chips, and my whole family thoroughly enjoyed it.

Just across the road sits the Railway Inn, another pub featuring a real fireplace that I didn’t get the chance to visit, though my parents said it was great and the perfect spot for an after-dinner beverage.

The pub benefits from an outstanding position adjacent to an impressive viaduct, no longer operational but still standing proudly. It crosses the Keil Burn, and was built to accommodate part of the Fife Coast Railway Line.

It’s been inactive since 1965 following the British railway restructuring known as the Beeching cuts, yet it continues to serve as an important monument and is certainly worth seeing.

Another intriguing element of Lower Largo’s history is that it’s the actual birthplace of the person who inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe – explaining the hotel’s nomenclature.

Born in 1676, Alexander Selkirk originated from the village, and the property that currently stands on his birthplace at 99-105 Main Street features a life-sized statue of him looking out towards the sea.

A signpost at the harbour indicates the direction of the Juan Fernández Islands, approximately 7,500 miles away, where he endured more than four years stranded.

I’m already looking forward to my next visit to Lower Largo. The general atmosphere of the location was incredibly inviting, and it’s evident it has a strong community spirit.

It’s the perfect destination to enjoy a peaceful few days, though if you want to venture further, the coastal town of St Andrews is just a 20-minute drive away. Although St Andrews is most celebrated for its rich golfing history and as the place where Prince William and Princess Catherine first met, the town also boasts a fantastic array of pubs, restaurants, bookshops and cafés just waiting to be explored.