Newport-On-Tay: Walking and Local History

Newport-On-Tay appeals to travellers who want to combine walking with local history and art. The Fife Coastal Path and Bert’s Tay Wander offer different experiences; historic buildings, exhibitions and activities at an arts centre add to the options. When planning your hotel and trip, it helps to first decide what matters most to you: a stretch of trail, the town’s development or a particular cultural offering.

Walking by the Tay

The first two and a half miles of the final section of the Fife Coastal Path follow a gentle route along the north shore of the Tay. After Balmerino Abbey, the path gradually becomes steeper. The terrain therefore varies depending on the section.

Bert’s Tay Wander is an 11 km coastal and countryside walking route. It passes under the Tay Road Bridge and leads into Newport-On-Tay. The distances refer to different routes: Bert’s Tay Wander is 11 km long; the reference to the first two and a half miles applies only to the final section of the Fife Coastal Path. Check the trail conditions and route before setting out.

Local history and architecture

Newport-On-Tay’s conservation area was designated in 1984 because of the particular historic and architectural interest of this part of the town. Thomas Telford’s new steamboat pier was built in 1823. Newport-On-Tay then grew rapidly as a Victorian seaside resort for Dundee.

St Fillan’s was built in 1886 and is a rare, largely unaltered surviving example of a chapel constructed from corrugated iron and wood. It is one of the few corrugated iron churches in the country still used for its original purpose. The surroundings of the conservation area offer views of the River Tay and Dundee; woodland and green spaces on the steep slope form the natural backdrop.

Art and history in the area

Newport Library & Heritage Centre displays objects and photographs about the history of Newport and Wormit. Exhibition topics include changing transport across the River Tay. The historical exhibitions are integrated into the library, which serves as a cultural centre for Newport. As exhibition topics may change, check what is currently on display before your visit if you have a particular interest.

Forgan Arts Centre is located on the edge of the village of Newport-On-Tay. Its programme includes art and craft classes, workshops and public events. If you are planning to attend a particular class or event, check the programme’s current dates.

Tatha Gallery aims to make art accessible and to be a welcoming, entertaining and informal place where families and friends can spend time together.

Blyth Hall and trails

Blyth Hall is a venue for weddings, parties, ceilidhs, and dance and fitness classes. The hall is accessible on foot or by bicycle. Well-used walking and cycling routes connect Newport-On-Tay with Tayport and Dundee via the Tay Bridge.

Discover more destinations: Markinch, Peat Inn, Rosyth, Inverkeithing, Newburgh, Lower Largo, Glenrothes, Ladybank.

For the wider travel overview: Fife.