Fife Coastal Path Research Findings Report: Stakeholder Motivations, Experiences and Perceptions

This report presents findings from a mixed-method study on the Fife Coastal Path (FCP), conducted between 2023 and 2025 as part of a BA/Leverhulme-funded project on the branding and management of long-distance trails. Drawing on 285 survey responses, 21 stakeholder interviews, and nine Ketso workshops, the research explores the motivations, experiences, and perceptions of walkers alongside the views of local businesses, community representatives, and tourism professionals.
Key findings highlight the FCP’s strong recreational, emotional, and economic value. Most users were Scottish residents, particularly from Fife, walking the path for exercise, scenery, and leisure. While many engaged through local or day trips, a smaller group undertook the full 117 miles (188 km) route, often over multiple visits. The path’s accessibility and transport links were praised, though users cited maintenance, signage, toilets, and litter management as recurring challenges.
Survey data showed moderate visitor expenditure, with food and drink spending (£15–£25 per day) as the most consistent outlay. Respondents expressed willingness to donate towards the upkeep of the path, typically between £10–£25. Interviews revealed broad consensus on the path’s importance to Fife’s identity and visitor economy but noted issues of fragmented promotion, variable infrastructure, and uneven community engagement. While participants recognised opportunities to strengthen the FCP’s brand identity, they also cautioned against over-commercialisation. Ketso workshop participants echoed these insights, emphasising the path’s contribution to health, wellbeing, local pride, and connection to nature, while advocating for greater investment in infrastructure, inclusive access, clearer signage, and coordinated stewardship.
Overall, the research underscores the Fife Coastal Path as a highly valued recreational and tourism asset that supports wellbeing, community cohesion, and regional identity. While this report presents findings rather than offering recommendations or managerial direction, the insights highlight that ensuring its its long-term sustainability will require collaborative management, targeted infrastructure improvements, strong branding, and equitable support for all communities along the route.