Many coastal destinations encapsulate much of what’s best about Britain – with promenades, piers, arcades and beach huts all bringing that nostalgic UK holiday magic. Scotland is perhaps more famous for its rolling Highlands but there is another, lesser-known village that’s buzzing with endless delights and offers that quintessential British holiday feel. Why not take a break from the hustle and bustle and discover why this Scottish seaside spot has constantly been named one of the UK’s most beautiful?

The historic fishing village of Crail boasts picturesque cobbled streets, leading you to a quaint harbour which evokes feelings of yesteryear. According to around 5,000 people surveyed by the consumer firm Which?, Crail managed to secure 12th place on its list of the UK’s best places by the coast. Bagging an impressive score of 77%, this coastal village was given a four-star rating by all those surveyed and was among several towns along the Fife coast which were recognised on the list.

Crail sits in the East Neuk of Fife and is one of Scotland’s oldest Royal Burghs that lies north of the border. It was Crail’s stunning scenery that earned this village the top honour. According to those who have visited Crail, the clifftop view above the village’s harbour remains one of the most beautiful and most iconic.

Fishing has always played a big part in the local economy here, with the fortunes of this village therefore naturally revolving around its charming harbour.

One review on TripAdvisor wrote: “First class seafood, as ever with many great al fresco dining experiences on the quayside.”

But beyond its picture-perfect harbour, the village of Crail features quaint streets, cosy pubs and charming cafes, plus a host of eateries offering mouth-watering seafood dishes the region is famous for, including herring and haddock known as Crail Capons.

Offering a literal taste of coastal life, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to fresh catches of the day with the option of even buying some fresh lobster and crab directly from a shack in the harbour known as Reilly’s Shellfish.

The best way to explore Crail is on foot with each corner here providing a treasure-trove of delights such as its many grand stone houses, chocolate box cottages and sandstone alleys.

Another review on TripAdvisor wrote of the magic of Crail saying: “What a lovely place! Beautifully kept grassy areas and the harbour was a delight to sit in and watch the wild life.”

Crail is only a 90 minute drive away from Edinburgh and is part of the Fife Coastal Path, stretching 117 miles through a number of similar villages.

With all it has to offer, it is no surprise that Crail made the list of Scotland’s top coastal villages.