A00275C Elie harbour Fife

The picturesque Elie harbour and beach are located along the north bank of the Firth of Forth on the east coast of Scotland. The harbour first appears in history around 1587 but seems to have fallen into disrepair by 1696. By the middle of the 18th century the harbour had grown in importance only to decline again by the early 1800's. Around 1855 a causeway and road were completed connecting the mainland to the island rock formations along the bottom of the picture, thus adding greater protection against easterly storms. From this a golden sandy beach accumulated in and around the harbour which today makes it one of its loveliest attractions, perhaps to the displeasure of earlier mariners and fishermen. Between the 1870's and WW1 Forth steamers were a regular visitor at Elie, sailing from Edinburgh Leith on excursions and the provision of a service. Also steamers on the Scottish east coast routes from as far as Aberdeen at one time called in at Elie. Built on solid bedrock the Granary stands alone by the pier and was used as a shipping goods store but the "B" listed building is now a set of luxury flats. The village thrives on tourism and its properties are sought after for its location, peace and climate.
Viewed looking northwest from above Wood Haven.
OS: 56.186104 -2.818316