Lady’s Tower: The Romantic Ruin of Ruby Bay, Fife
An evocative 18th-century folly perched on Ruby Bay’s cliffs, Lady’s Tower offers panoramic sea views and a glimpse into Georgian coastal life.
Lady’s Tower, perched on the eastern headland of Ruby Bay near Leven in Fife, Scotland, is a striking 18th-century folly built in 1770 for Lady Janet Anstruther. This roofless, circular tower once served as a private retreat and changing place for Lady Janet’s daily swims in the sea below. With its vast arched windows offering panoramic views of the Firth of Forth and its evocative coastal setting, Lady’s Tower captures the essence of early Gothic revival and local history.
A brief summary to Lady’s Tower
- Fife, Admiralty Ln, Leven, KY9 1EA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the small beach below the tower to see the vaulted cave changing room used by Lady Janet Anstruther.
- Bring a camera to capture the tower’s dramatic silhouette against the coastal landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the cliffside paths, as terrain can be uneven and slippery near the tower.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Elie Ness Lighthouse for more stunning views of the Firth of Forth.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Leven town center to Elie, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes. From Elie, it is a 20-minute walk along coastal paths to Lady’s Tower. Bus tickets cost approximately £3-£5.
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Car
Drive from Leven to the Ruby Bay car park near Elie, a 10-minute journey. Parking is limited and free of charge. From the car park, it is a 10-15 minute walk to Lady’s Tower via well-marked coastal paths. Note that the paths can be uneven.
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Walking
For active travelers, a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour walk from Leven town center to Lady’s Tower follows coastal trails offering stunning views. The terrain includes some uneven and rocky sections, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Lady’s Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lady’s Tower
A Tower Built for Lady Janet Anstruther’s Seaside Retreat
Lady’s Tower was constructed around 1770 for Lady Janet Anstruther, née Janet Fall, the daughter of a wealthy Scottish merchant. The tower was designed as a private summerhouse and a place for Lady Janet to recuperate after her daily sea swims in Ruby Bay. The tower’s circular structure, now roofless, features three large arched windows that frame spectacular views of the Firth of Forth and the surrounding coastline. Inside, the remains of a fireplace hint at the comfort the tower once provided, allowing Lady Janet to warm herself after immersing in the cold waters.The Lady Behind the Tower: A Woman of Beauty and Influence
Janet Anstruther was renowned locally for her beauty and spirited personality. Known as Jenny Fall before marriage, she was a figure of local lore, famous for her daily skinny dips in the sea. To ensure her privacy, a servant would ring a bell to warn villagers to stay away during her swims. Lady Janet’s influence extended beyond her personal habits; local stories suggest she played a role in the demolition of the nearby village of Balclevie, allegedly to preserve her view from Elie House. Her husband, Sir John Anstruther, was a prominent and sometimes truculent industrialist and politician, known for his public cold bathing pool gifted to the community.The Tower’s Unique Coastal Setting and Architecture
Situated on a low cliff on Ruby Bay’s rugged headland, Lady’s Tower epitomizes the romantic ruin aesthetic of the early Gothic revival. Its position commands sweeping ocean vistas, with the sound of waves crashing below and seabirds calling overhead. The tower incorporates a vaulted chamber at sea level, a man-made cave that served as Lady Janet’s changing room, where she would prepare for her swims. This unusual feature adds to the tower’s charm and historical intrigue.Historical Context and Local Legacy
The tower and its surrounding grounds were part of a larger 18th-century landscaping project by the Anstruther family. Lady Janet’s husband and his business partner were instrumental in local industrial ventures, including coal and salt works nearby. The tower is a category C listed building, recognized by Historic Environment Scotland for its architectural and historical significance. It stands as a testament to the social customs and coastal lifestyle of Georgian Scotland.Visiting Lady’s Tower Today
Though now a roofless ruin, Lady’s Tower remains a captivating landmark for visitors exploring the Fife coastline. The tower’s evocative silhouette against the sky and its dramatic coastal position make it a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Nearby, visitors can explore the small beach and the vaulted cave changing room, gaining a tangible connection to Lady Janet’s unique story. The tower’s location offers peaceful surroundings with stunning natural beauty, perfect for reflection and appreciation of Scotland’s heritage.Connections to Local Culture and Folklore
Lady Janet’s story has woven itself into local folklore, including tales of curses from displaced villagers and her reputation as a coquette. The tower’s presence on the headland symbolizes shifting attitudes toward health, leisure, and the sea in the 18th century. It also highlights the complex social dynamics of the time, where power, privilege, and landscape were intimately connected. Today, Lady’s Tower invites visitors to imagine the life of a remarkable woman who left an enduring mark on Fife’s coastal heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tantallon Castle
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Swilcan Bridge
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Martyrs' Monument
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Dairsie Castle
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Waughton Castle
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Chesters Hill Fort
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Caithness Place
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Gosford House
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Ravenscraig Castle
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Garleton Castle
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Hopetoun Monument
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Barnes Castle
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Hailes Castle
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Amisfield Walled Garden
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St Martin's Kirk
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ruby Bay
0.4 km
Discover Ruby Bay’s sheltered sandy beach, rich wildlife, historic landmarks, and scenic coastal walks on the Fife Coastal Path.
Elie Beach
0.7 km
A family-friendly Blue Flag beach with golden sands, watersports, and unique local traditions in the scenic East Neuk of Fife.
Elie and Earlsferry
1.3 km
Historic seaside twin villages in Fife offering sandy beaches, coastal adventures, and rich maritime heritage.
Newark Castle
2.5 km
Explore Newark Castle’s Renaissance grandeur and turbulent history on the scenic banks of the Firth of Clyde in Port Glasgow.
St. Monans Harbour
3.3 km
Discover the charm of St. Monans Harbour, a serene marina in Anstruther, perfect for relaxation, fresh seafood, and stunning coastal views.
Fife Coastal Path
3.7 km
Explore 117 miles of stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, historic sites, and breathtaking views along Scotland’s Fife Coastal Path.
Pittenweem Harbour
5.8 km
Historic and bustling fishing harbour in Fife’s East Neuk, blending maritime heritage with vibrant coastal charm.
The Pop In
5.8 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage finds, and local art in the cozy charm of Pittenweem’s beloved Pop In shop.
St Fillan's Cave
5.9 km
Discover the sacred sandstone cave of St Fillan in Pittenweem, where history, spirituality, and coastal beauty intertwine in a timeless Scottish sanctuary.
Kellie Castle
6.1 km
Discover Kellie Castle’s enchanting blend of medieval heritage, Victorian artistry, and fragrant gardens in the heart of Fife.
Anstruther Harbour
7.9 km
Historic fishing harbour turned vibrant marina, offering scenic walks, fresh seafood, and wildlife boat trips in picturesque Fife.
Scotland's Secret Bunker
11.7 km
Explore Scotland’s Cold War secret: a vast underground bunker near St Andrews that housed the nation’s emergency government in nuclear crisis.
Dunino Den
12.1 km
Ancient Druidic sanctuary where 6,000 years of sacred ritual echo through wooded stone.
Fife Heritage Railway - (Kirkland Yard)
12.7 km
Explore Fife’s rich railway heritage through restored locomotives and immersive workshops at Kirkland Yard in Leven.
Yellowcraig Beach
13.6 km
A scenic family-friendly beach near North Berwick with woodland trails, a pirate playpark, and views of historic Fidra Island lighthouse.
Essential places to dine
Craig Millar @ 16 West End
3.2 km
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The Dory Bistro & Gallery
5.8 km
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The Rockies Restaurant
7.4 km
Coastal charm and fresh local flavors combine at The Rockies Restaurant, a beloved dining spot in scenic Anstruther.
The Crusoe
8.8 km
A historic beachfront boutique hotel in Lower Largo offering stunning sea views, fresh seafood, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms
11.4 km
Michelin-starred dining and elegant rooms in a historic Fife coaching inn surrounded by tranquil gardens and countryside charm.
The Lobster Shack
14.8 km
Rustic seafood shack on North Berwick Harbour serving fresh lobster, crab, and fish with stunning sea views in a casual, seasonal setting.
The Rocketeer Restaurant
14.9 km
Fresh seafood and stunning coastal views combine at The Rocketeer, North Berwick’s beloved seaside restaurant.
The Puffin
15.1 km
Cozy bistro and wine bar in North Berwick blending Scottish seafood and French flavors in a charming coastal setting.
Cucina Amore
15.1 km
Experience authentic Italian warmth and fresh coastal flavours in the heart of North Berwick at Cucina Amore.
Zitto Italian Winebar & Trattoria
15.1 km
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The Grange Restaurant & Steakhouse
15.1 km
A beloved steakhouse on North Berwick’s High Street, serving quality British cuisine in a warm, relaxed atmosphere with attentive service.
The Castle Inn
15.6 km
Charming historic inn in Dirleton offering cozy rooms, excellent homecooked Scottish fare, and warm hospitality near Dirleton Castle.
Standing Stane Restaurant and Bar
16.3 km
A cozy family-run British restaurant and bar in Leven offering hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere near Wellsgreen Golf Range.
The Bonnie Badger - Pub, Restaurant with Rooms
16.7 km
A stylish coastal retreat blending historic charm, Scottish design, and Michelin-quality dining in the heart of Gullane.
La Potiniere
16.7 km
An intimate French fine dining gem in Gullane, blending Scottish ingredients with elegant culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Funky Scottish
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Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home
7.9 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts, cards, and stylish home accessories in the heart of Anstruther’s charming East Neuk coast.
Jenna May’s Vintage
12.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Leven’s charming Commercial Road.
NØRDEN
15.1 km
Discover Nordic-inspired homewares and lifestyle treasures in North Berwick’s family-owned concept store, NØRDEN.
Madame Butterfly
15.1 km
Explore Madame Butterfly in North Berwick for unique gifts and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Rock & Bird
15.1 km
Discover unique art supplies, creative gifts, and local craftsmanship in the heart of North Berwick at Rock & Bird.
Whynot?
15.1 km
Explore Whynot? in North Berwick, where exquisite delicatessen treats meet a vibrant arts and crafts atmosphere.
SO & CO Accessories
15.1 km
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Time & Tide
15.1 km
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Great Escape
15.1 km
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Old Smiddy gift shop
16.8 km
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Secret Boutique
16.8 km
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BlackHouse
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Ostara by Pretty Things
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The Scottish Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ship Inn
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The Auld Hoose
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The Jigger Inn
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Man I' The Rock
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The Elby Inn
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Fife Arms Pub
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Bogarts
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The Path Tavern
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Harbour Bar
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The Heritage Bar
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Betty Nicols
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Weavers Bar & Lounge
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Montagues
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Alfie's
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Duchess of Kirkcaldy
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
