A History of Buckhaven
25 Jun 2009

A town in Wemyss parish situated on the Firth of Forth, Buckhaven was once a weaving village and fishing port, it was reported as having, in 1831, the second largest fishing fleet in Scotland with a total of 198 boats. Following World War 1 the fishing industry declined and from the early 1900's Buckhaven developed as a mining town, the local pits included the Wellesley, Earlseat, Wellsgreen and Lochhead. This new industry was able to provide needed employment for residents of the town. Unfortunately, it resulted in the harbor being silted up as well as the beaches being covered in black residue.

Buckhaven is said to be descended from Norsemen who settled there in the 9th century, its fisherfolk bought an episcopal church in St Andrews in 1869 and transported it stone by stone to Buckhaven. It was restored in the 1980's and turned into a theatre which currently houses a youth theatre group which is nationally acclaimed for their fine presentations.

Buckhaven Museum, on College Street, is always a fantastic attraction in the town. Here you can learn about the local fishing and coal mining industries over the years. A replica 1920's kitchen has been created and gives insight into the lives of people residing in Buckhaven at that time. The stained glass windows, intricately designed by local craftsmen will delight the eye. There are also temporary exhibitions which change from time to time. Souvenirs and publications relating to Buckhaven and Fife are available for purchase. Downstairs from the Buckhaven Museum is the Buckhaven Library. Easily accessible, this library houses a large selection of books regarding a variety of topics. Two computers offer visitors access to the Internet. If you have children, they would love to come here for story telling times and other organized activities.

Buckhaven is on the Fife Coastal Path and it is a short walk to the famous Wemyss Caves and Largo Bay. Amongst other local attractions is the beach and golf courses in Leven and Lundin Links and East Fife F.C. play at New Bayview Park, Methil. The East Neuk of Fife with its many tourist attractions, including The Old Course St. Andrews, The Secret Bunker and Fisheries Museum, Anstruther, is a short drive away along the coast.
The town has well-established businesses including Stuarts of Buckhaven (Bakers & Butchers), Robert Summers Transport, Allsons, Levenmouth Printers and Donaldson’s Timber. For lovers of meat-filled pastries, Starks Butchers on College Street have recently won prestigious awards for their quality scotch pies.

The town of Buckhaven is also the home, of course, to Buckhaven Town AFC – The Toonies, and their club sponsor Burts Bar based in Randolph Street where a friendly pint is always on offer.