Scotland’s “secret via ferrata”
The Chain Walk is a short but serious scramble around the base of the cliffs at Kincraig Point, about a kilometre west of Earlsferry. Chains fixed into the rock help you along ledges, across gullies and up short vertical sections. The first chains went in during the 1920s and were replaced in 2010.
It is not the Fife Coastal Path. The main path takes the clifftop above, so walkers who don’t fancy the chains can still enjoy the same stretch of coast.
Before you go
Go at low tide only
Where it starts
How long it takes
What to wear
Who it’s for
In an emergency
Before and after the chains
Take the clifftop back
Lunch in Earlsferry or Elie
Warm up afterwards
Walk the whole section
Explore Elie
Homes a short walk from the Chain Walk
Stay in Earlsferry and you can walk to the start from your front door.
Elie Chain Walk: your questions answered
How long is the Elie Chain Walk?
The chained section is about half a kilometre, around Kincraig Point west of Earlsferry. Allow 1 to 3 hours including the walk in and out.
Can you do the Chain Walk at high tide?
No. It runs along the foreshore and should only be attempted around low tide. Check the tide times and leave plenty of margin.
Is the Elie Chain Walk dangerous?
It involves scrambling and short vertical climbs on chains above rocks, and people do get cut off by the tide or injured. With good footwear, the right tide and some confidence on rock it is a great adventure.
Can children or dogs do the Chain Walk?
It isn’t suitable for young children or dogs. Older children who are confident climbers can manage it with an adult.
Is the Chain Walk part of the Fife Coastal Path?
No. It is an optional route below the cliffs; the coastal path itself goes over the clifftop at Kincraig Point.