Dysart Harbour - historic fishing harbour and conservation area on the Fife coast near Kirkcaldy.
Dysart Harbour lies within the former fishing village of Dysart, now a conservation area helping to preserve its picturesque harbour, historic buildings and attractive seafront for future generations. The harbour has become one of the most recognisable locations on this part of the Fife coast and is also a popular stop along the Fife Coastal Path. Its historic character and waterfront setting have attracted a number of film and television productions, including Outlander, in which Dysart Harbour was transformed into the French port of Le Havre for the second series.
One of the best ways to discover Dysart is on foot, following Sailor's Walk from the village centre towards the outer harbour before continuing to Pan Ha'. Here, distinctive white-walled and red-roofed fishermen's houses dating from the 16th and 17th centuries provide a reminder of the village's maritime past. The area was once associated with salt production, when seawater was evaporated in pans to produce salt, an industry that helped earn Dysart the historic name of the 'Saut Burgh'. Nearby St Serf's Tower is another fascinating reminder of the area's history, with 103 steps leading to the top of the imposing 16th-century structure.
Visitors can also stop at the Harbourmaster's House, headquarters of the Fife Countryside Trust and home to the Harbourmaster's Cafe. From around the harbour there are impressive views across the Firth of Forth, while the surrounding streets, historic buildings and waterfront provide plenty to discover at a leisurely pace. Combined with its position on the
Fife Coastal Path, Dysart Harbour makes an atmospheric place to explore Fife's maritime heritage, enjoy a coastal walk and discover one of the region's distinctive historic communities.