Newark Castle

Newark Castle stands on the east coast of Fife, just west of St Monans. A 15th-century ruin, it overlooks the North Sea from a dramatic position. The upper floors have collapsed, but vaulted cellars remain below ground. The building began as a Kinloch family stronghold before passing through marriage to the Sandilands of Cruivie. In 1649 it was sold to David Leslie, a leading figure in the Civil Wars who became Lord Newark. The castle later belonged to the Anstruther family and then the Bairds of Elie. In the late 19th century Sir William Burrell, a Glasgow ship owner and art collector, took an interest. Sir Robert Lorimer drew up plans to restore the castle, but the owner refused to sell. Historic Environment Scotland recognises the site, along with its dovecote, as a scheduled monument. Visitors find the roofless shell of the castle rising above the shoreline. The vaulted cellars lie half-buried beside the ruins. A small dovecote still stands nearby, linked to the castle’s history. The North Sea crashes against the rocks below, adding to the site’s rugged atmosphere. The Fife Coastal Path passes close by, offering walkers a view of the castle’s seaward side.