The Ship Inn, Elie – Coastal Charm and Classic Scottish Hospitality
Charming seaside pub and hotel with stunning bay views, fresh local seafood, and warm Scottish hospitality in the heart of Elie’s coastal village.
The Ship Inn is a charming seaside pub, hotel, and restaurant located on The Toft in Elie and Earlsferry, Fife. Overlooking Elie’s picturesque beach and bay, it offers cozy accommodation with stunning sea views, a lively bar, and a coastal-themed restaurant serving local seafood and Scottish dishes. Known for its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to scenic coastal walks, The Ship Inn is a beloved destination for visitors seeking authentic East Neuk hospitality.
A brief summary to The Ship Inn
- The Toft, Leven, Elie and Earlsferry, KY9 1DT, GB
- +441333330246
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book rooms in advance during summer months to secure sea-view accommodations.
- Try the East Neuk lobster tacos or Elie Estate venison for a taste of local flavors.
- Visit the beer garden on sunny days for a lively atmosphere and scenic views.
- Explore nearby coastal paths for beautiful walks along the beach and cliffs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Ship Inn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Ship Inn
Historic Seaside Setting with Stunning Views
Nestled on The Toft in the quaint fishing village of Elie and Earlsferry, The Ship Inn enjoys a prime location overlooking the sparkling waters of Elie Bay and its expansive sandy beach. This coastal spot is part of Fife’s East Neuk, a region famed for its charming harbors and scenic beauty. The inn’s position allows guests to watch the tides ebb and flow while enjoying panoramic views of the bay, making it an idyllic retreat for those who appreciate the sea’s ever-changing moods.A Blend of Traditional Pub and Comfortable Accommodation
The Ship Inn combines the warmth of a traditional Scottish pub with the comfort of a boutique hotel. It features six well-appointed rooms, including the popular Captain’s and Admiral’s rooms, many with large windows or balconies framing the sea. Interiors are smart yet simple, with touches like roll-top baths and well-equipped hospitality trays. The inn’s atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a lively bar and a beer garden that buzzes with activity during warmer months, often hosting local events like cricket matches on the beach.Coastal Cuisine with Local Flavors
The inn’s restaurant specializes in fresh, locally sourced seafood and classic Scottish fare, served in an informal, coastal-themed setting. Signature dishes include East Neuk lobster tacos and Elie Estate venison, showcasing regional ingredients with creative flair. While portions and prices can vary, the food is generally praised for its quality and flavor. The menu also features seasonal specials and comforting pub classics, catering to a range of tastes. The dining experience is complemented by a selection of drinks, including craft beers and fine wines.Engaging Atmosphere and Friendly Service
Visitors often highlight the inn’s friendly and attentive staff, who contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment. The Ship Inn balances a smart, slightly upscale vibe with a casual, family-friendly ambiance, making it suitable for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Despite occasional busy periods, the service strives to be efficient and accommodating, sometimes going the extra mile for special occasions or guest needs.Gateway to East Neuk Exploration
Beyond the inn itself, the location is ideal for exploring the East Neuk’s coastal paths, beaches, and nearby fishing villages. Guests can enjoy scenic walks along the shore, visit local attractions, or simply relax in the inn’s gardens and terrace. The proximity to Leven and other towns also provides access to additional amenities and cultural experiences, making The Ship Inn a perfect base for a day trip or weekend getaway in this picturesque part of Scotland.Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Experience
The Ship Inn is popular year-round but especially lively during warmer months when the beer garden and outdoor spaces come alive. The coastal weather can be brisk, adding to the charm of cozying up inside with a hearty meal and a warming drink. Whether visiting for a meal, a drink, or an overnight stay, the inn offers a memorable taste of Scottish coastal life with a blend of tradition, comfort, and local character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Swilcan Bridge
17.2 km
A centuries-old stone arch bridging golf’s past and present on the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.
Martyrs' Monument
17.3 km
A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.
Tantallon Castle
17.9 km
Experience the historical grandeur of Tantallon Castle, a stunning 14th-century fortress offering breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into Scotland's past.
Dairsie Castle
18.1 km
Discover the timeless beauty and rich history of Dairsie Castle, a stunning Scottish landmark nestled in the heart of Fife.
Waughton Castle
20.3 km
Discover Waughton Castle in East Linton, a hidden gem reflecting Scotland's fascinating history and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Caithness Place
20.9 km
Experience the vibrant connectivity of Caithness Place, your gateway to the best of Kirkcaldy's attractions and scenic spots.
Chesters Hill Fort
21.6 km
Explore the ancient remnants of Chesters Hill Fort in East Lothian, a captivating historical landmark that reveals Scotland's rich heritage amidst stunning landscapes.
Ravenscraig Castle
21.6 km
Explore the majestic Ravenscraig Castle in Kirkcaldy, a stunning historical site blending rich heritage with breathtaking coastal views.
Gosford House
21.6 km
Discover the elegance of Gosford House, a stunning stately home in East Lothian, showcasing exquisite architecture and beautiful gardens amidst rich Scottish history.
Garleton Castle
23.1 km
Explore the rich heritage and breathtaking views at Garleton Castle, a hidden gem in North Berwick, Scotland, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Hopetoun Monument
23.4 km
A towering tribute on Byres Hill offering historic charm and sweeping panoramic views across East Lothian and beyond.
Barnes Castle
23.5 km
Discover the enchanting Barnes Castle in Haddington, a historic gem surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich Scottish heritage.
Hailes Castle
25.3 km
Discover the medieval charm of Hailes Castle, a historical landmark in East Lothian, showcasing Scotland's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Amisfield Walled Garden
25.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Amisfield Walled Garden in Haddington, a historic gem filled with vibrant flowers and serene landscapes.
St Martin's Kirk
26.0 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Romanesque ruins of St Martin's Kirk, a cornerstone of Haddington's medieval spiritual heritage and Reformation history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ruby Bay
0.3 km
Discover Ruby Bay’s sheltered sandy beach, rich wildlife, historic landmarks, and scenic coastal walks on the Fife Coastal Path.
Lady’s Tower
0.6 km
Discover the historical elegance of Lady’s Tower in Fife, a must-visit landmark for travelers seeking scenic beauty and rich heritage.
Elie and Earlsferry
0.7 km
Historic seaside twin villages in Fife offering sandy beaches, coastal adventures, and rich maritime heritage.
Newark Castle
2.7 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
3.6 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
3.9 km
Explore 117 miles of stunning coastline, charming fishing villages, historic sites, and breathtaking views along Scotland’s Fife Coastal Path.
Kellie Castle
6.0 km
Discover Kellie Castle’s enchanting blend of medieval heritage, Victorian artistry, and fragrant gardens in the heart of Fife.
Pittenweem Harbour
6.1 km
Historic and bustling fishing harbour in Fife’s East Neuk, blending maritime heritage with vibrant coastal charm.
The Pop In
6.1 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage finds, and local art in the cozy charm of Pittenweem’s beloved Pop In shop.
St Fillan's Cave
6.1 km
Discover the sacred sandstone cave of St Fillan in Pittenweem, where history, spirituality, and coastal beauty intertwine in a timeless Scottish sanctuary.
Anstruther Harbour
8.1 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
11.9 km
Ancient Druidic sanctuary where 6,000 years of sacred ritual echo through wooded stone.
Fife Heritage Railway - (Kirkland Yard)
12.1 km
Explore Fife’s rich railway heritage through restored locomotives and immersive workshops at Kirkland Yard in Leven.
Crail Harbour
13.9 km
Historic Crail Harbour in Fife offers timeless charm with its vibrant fishing port, medieval architecture, and stunning coastal scenery.
Essential places to dine
Craig Millar @ 16 West End
3.5 km
Award-winning seafood dining with stunning harbour views in the charming fishing village of St Monans, Fife.
The Dory Bistro & Gallery
6.1 km
Fresh seafood delights meet vibrant local art in a charming harbour-side bistro in Pittenweem’s historic fishing village.
The Rockies Restaurant
7.7 km
Coastal charm and fresh local flavors combine at The Rockies Restaurant, a beloved dining spot in scenic Anstruther.
The Crusoe
8.2 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
10.9 km
Michelin-starred dining and elegant rooms in a historic Fife coaching inn surrounded by tranquil gardens and countryside charm.
The Lobster Shack
15.3 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
15.4 km
Fresh seafood and stunning coastal views combine at The Rocketeer, North Berwick’s beloved seaside restaurant.
The Puffin
15.6 km
Cozy bistro and wine bar in North Berwick blending Scottish seafood and French flavors in a charming coastal setting.
Cucina Amore
15.6 km
Experience authentic Italian warmth and fresh coastal flavours in the heart of North Berwick at Cucina Amore.
Zitto Italian Winebar & Trattoria
15.7 km
Authentic Italian tapas, wood-fired pizzas, and a curated wine selection in the heart of North Berwick’s vibrant dining scene.
The Grange Restaurant & Steakhouse
15.7 km
A beloved steakhouse on North Berwick’s High Street, serving quality British cuisine in a warm, relaxed atmosphere with attentive service.
Standing Stane Restaurant and Bar
15.8 km
A cozy family-run British restaurant and bar in Leven offering hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere near Wellsgreen Golf Range.
The Castle Inn
16.0 km
Charming historic inn in Dirleton offering cozy rooms, excellent homecooked Scottish fare, and warm hospitality near Dirleton Castle.
The Saint Bar & Kitchen
16.7 km
Cozy Scottish gastropub in St Andrews serving fresh local dishes, craft cocktails, and an award-winning sticky toffee pudding in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Bothy St Andrews
16.9 km
Cozy Scottish dining in historic Church Square with fresh local flavors, quirky charm, and intimate private spaces.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Funky Scottish
6.0 km
Discover Scottish art, gifts, and coffee in a vibrant, creative space at Funky Scottish in the heart of Pittenweem.
Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home
8.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts, cards, and stylish home accessories in the heart of Anstruther’s charming East Neuk coast.
Jenna May’s Vintage
11.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of Leven’s charming Commercial Road.
NØRDEN
15.6 km
Discover Nordic-inspired homewares and lifestyle treasures in North Berwick’s family-owned concept store, NØRDEN.
Madame Butterfly
15.6 km
Explore Madame Butterfly in North Berwick for unique gifts and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Whynot?
15.6 km
Explore Whynot? in North Berwick, where exquisite delicatessen treats meet a vibrant arts and crafts atmosphere.
Rock & Bird
15.6 km
Discover unique art supplies, creative gifts, and local craftsmanship in the heart of North Berwick at Rock & Bird.
SO & CO Accessories
15.6 km
Discover stylish, contemporary accessories and unique gifts in a charming boutique on North Berwick’s High Street.
Time & Tide
15.6 km
Discover sophisticated homewares and unique gifts in a charming coastal boutique at Time & Tide, North Berwick’s stylish destination for interior inspiration.
Great Escape
15.6 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment shop in North Berwick, offering expert advice and quality gear for every adventure.
Ostara by Pretty Things
16.8 km
Discover sustainable fashion and unique Scottish style at Ostara by Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of St Andrews.
The Scottish Shop
16.8 km
Discover authentic Highland clothing and Scottish gifts with exceptional service in the heart of historic St Andrews.
The Gift Gallery
16.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes at The Gift Gallery, nestled in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews
16.9 km
Discover quirky gifts and charming treasures at Bonkers Gift Shop, a vibrant and unique shopping destination in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Taste of Scotland Gifts and Souvenirs
17.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs with exceptional service in the heart of St Andrews’ historic Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ship Inn
0.0 km
Charming seaside pub and hotel with stunning bay views, fresh local seafood, and warm Scottish hospitality in the heart of Elie’s coastal village.
The Auld Hoose
15.6 km
A lively North Berwick pub famed for craft drinks, massive portions, and a welcoming rock ’n’ roll vibe in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
The Jigger Inn
17.3 km
Historic 19th-century pub beside St Andrews’ Old Course, famed for golf heritage, cozy fires, hearty Scottish fare, and exclusive Jigger Ale.
The Elby Inn
19.8 km
Experience the heart of Scottish hospitality at The Elby Inn, a cozy pub in Markinch offering local ales and hearty meals.
Man I' The Rock
19.9 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Dysart offering genuine Scottish hospitality and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Fife Arms Pub
21.0 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Kirkcaldy offering hearty fare, local drinks, and a lively community atmosphere in a welcoming setting.
Bogarts
21.5 km
A lively and affordable pub in Kirkcaldy’s heart, offering classic drinks and a welcoming atmosphere every day until midnight.
The Path Tavern
22.0 km
A cozy, family-run pub in Kirkcaldy serving hearty home-cooked meals with vintage charm and friendly, attentive service.
Harbour Bar
22.3 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Kirkcaldy offering affordable ales, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Heritage Bar
22.6 km
Experience the joy of singing at The Heritage Bar, a lively karaoke spot in Kirkcaldy, where great music and delicious drinks meet.
Betty Nicols
22.6 km
Historic and welcoming Kirkcaldy bar offering hearty pub fare, guest ales, vegan options, and a cosy atmosphere with a pet-friendly spirit.
Weavers Bar & Lounge
22.9 km
A welcoming and lively bar in Kirkcaldy offering great drinks, a cozy lounge, and a friendly atmosphere with moderate prices.
Montagues
23.0 km
Lively and affordable bar with funky decor and friendly staff in the heart of Kirkcaldy's High Street.
Alfie's
23.1 km
A lively and welcoming bar on Kirkcaldy's High Street, perfect for casual drinks and vibrant nightlife.
Duchess of Kirkcaldy
23.2 km
A stylish and welcoming bar-restaurant in Kirkcaldy offering delicious pub fare, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere with attentive service.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Truth
11.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.
Republic Bar Club
23.1 km
Experience Kirkcaldy’s vibrant nightlife at Republic Bar Club, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and lively weekends come together.
The Schofies Residence 1
23.6 km
A lively nightclub nestled in Glenrothes, offering a vibrant social scene and memorable nights in Scotland’s welcoming town.
Decades Bar & Nightclub
31.5 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Underground
31.6 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
Rewind dundee
31.8 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Fat Sams
31.9 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
AURA Nightclub
31.9 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Tropicana & Venga
31.9 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Afro Beats
31.9 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
Private Eyes
32.0 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
OUT Nightclub
32.0 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
32.0 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
The Street
34.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at The Street, a lively cocktail bar and restaurant offering delicious drinks and a diverse menu.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
35.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
