Craigtoun Country Park

From private estate to public park

The land was a Melville family estate from 1698. In 1901 Dr James Younger, of the brewing family, bought it and brought in the architect Paul Waterhouse, who reshaped the grounds and, around 1920, added the lakes and the little island settlement now called the Dutch Village. Fife County Council bought the park in 1947. Since 2013 the Friends of Craigtoun charity has run the attractions in partnership with Fife Council.

What there is to do

Play areas, the walled and Italian-style gardens, a Japanese Garden and a café are there whatever the season. From Easter to October, weather permitting, paid attractions open: the Rio Grande miniature railway, the Puffin' Billy road train, crazy golf, park golf, pedal cars, go-karts and bouncy castles. Rowing boats and pedalos returned to the Dutch Village lake for summer 2026 after restoration work.

Making a day of it

Craigtoun suits families with younger children best on a dry summer day, when you can mix rides with a picnic on the lawns. Out of season it is a quieter place for a garden walk. The seasonal rides are closed until spring 2027. It pairs well with the St Andrews Botanic Garden on the way back into town, or lunch at Rufflets, under two kilometres away.

Highlights

• 47 acres of parkland and formal gardens
• Dutch Village on its own lake
• Rio Grande miniature railway (seasonal)
• Japanese Garden and play areas open all year
• Run by the Friends of Craigtoun charity

Good to know

• Entry and parking are free; the seasonal rides are paid, and annual passes are available.
• Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead in the play areas.
• Seasonal attractions run Easter to October, weather permitting.

Frequently asked questions