Rosyth to Inverkeithing (8 miles)
We begin at the western edge of Rosyth where the path leaves the A985 pavement, heading back towards the water. Parking is available in a nearby industrial estate. We pass through a residential area before approaching the busy dockyard. Look out for the waymarkers as the route isn't obvious.
More road walking is required, following the B981 towards North Queensferry. We pass under the approaches to the Queensferry Crossing (opened in 2017) and the older Forth Road Bridge which dates from 1964. Good views of both bridges can be obtained from the grounds of the Hilton Hotel which you will pass by. As we enter North Queensferry, the magnificent rail bridge stands before us in all its glory. An uphill climb to the left takes us to the beginning of the original Fife Coastal Path which opened in 2002. The extension you have just walked came nine years later. An optional short detour is to wander down to Deep Sea World and marvel at the marine life, or simply view the mighty Forth Bridge from below.
We gain height and walk around a headland with commanding views across the water. A lovely little secluded beach is reached which looks across to St David's Harbour in Dalgety Bay. We are approaching Inverkeithing and must work our way around Inner Bay - an industrial area which at one time was used to break up some of the world's most famous passenger ships. We then climb up to the town centre which features a few historic buildings - being a Royal Burgh. The Burgh Arms serves cheap and cheerful food and sometimes offers real ale.
As this walk has involved navigating a peninsula, we are only a couple of miles from the starting point. Either follow the pavement back to Rosyth or look for a connecting bus service.
