Chincough Well Fife

Chincough Well

Sand Martin nests There is a distinct stratum of softer sand in the bank at the top of the beach. Sand Martins have made their nests there. — Sand Martin nests Credit: Rob Burke

Chincough Well is a coastal feature located in Fife, Scotland. Situated on the east coast of the country, Chincough Well is a prominent headland that juts out into the North Sea. It is known for its rugged cliffs, picturesque views, and historical significance.

The headland offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastline, with its towering cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop. The area is known for its diverse and rich marine life, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and marine enthusiasts. Seagulls, cormorants, and guillemots can often be spotted nesting on the cliffs or fishing in the nearby waters.

Chincough Well also holds historical significance, as it was once the site of a natural spring that was believed to have healing properties. The well was a popular destination for pilgrimages in the past, with people seeking cures for ailments and diseases. The name "Chincough" is derived from the old English word for whooping cough, due to the belief that the well could cure this particular ailment.

Today, Chincough Well remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking coastal walks along the headland, exploring the rugged cliffs and taking in the stunning views. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, providing ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the local ecosystem.

Chincough Well Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.289728/-2.6189093 or Grid Reference NO6110. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sand Martin nests

There is a distinct stratum of softer sand in the bank at the top of the beach. Sand Martins have made their nests there.

Rob Burke

Fife coastal path

North from this point the coastal path runs along the edge of Kingsbarns Golf Links.

Rob Burke

Milestone, Cambo

The milestone stands beside the A917. Milestones are the original roadside heritage features with many dating back hundreds of years and these historic items are under threat from highway developments.

Maigheach-gheal

Milestone and bench mark, Cambo

The milestone stands beside the A917 and it has an Ordnance Survey bench mark on it. For a wider view of the milestone NO6010 : Milestone, Cambo and for further information on the cut mark and others in the area Link

Maigheach-gheal

Milestone, Cambo

Milestones did not come into general use until the Turnpike Act of 1766 made them compulsory on turnpike roads, these roads were built by private enterprise under licence from the Government and maintained by tolls on those who used them. Before this Act milestones were put up occasionally, often as charitable acts and commemorations. Many Turnpike Act stones still exist. They are usually 2-3 ft high, with the initial letter or abbreviation of the nearest market town shown on two faces, and the distance from it.

Maigheach-gheal

Golf links near Cambo Ness

Kingsbarns golf course near Cambo Ness, viewed from the Fife coastal path.

William Starkey

Cambo Sands

Cambo Sands, viewed along the course of a small burn (not marked on 1:50000 mapping) that flows for only 500 metres before merging with the North Sea.

William Starkey

East Newhall farm

Abandoned and falling apart, yet there is planning permission for conversion of these buildings into a micro-distillery for single malt whisky.

James Allan

East Newhall farm

Seen from the west. The central tower, which makes this abandoned farm look rather like a small castle, was originally a doocot around which the steading was built.

James Allan

The Cambo burn flowing into the North Sea

James Allan

The Fife Coastal Path

With Cambo Ness in the background.

James Allan

Cambo snowdrops

The gardens at Cambo Estate are famed for their springtime shows of snowdrops.

James Allan

Stone wall and snowdrops

A secluded corner of Cambo estate.

James Allan

Fife Ness View

Looking along the northern edge of the Ness on a very windy September afternoon. The in-shore water was remarkably sheltered.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Fife Ness View

Looking along the northern coastline of Fife Ness, at Balcomie Links, on a very windy afternoon which presented the golfers with a real challenge.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Cambo Walled Garden

Whatever you look for in gardens, you are sure to find it in this iconic Victorian walled garden with a modern twist - inspirational planting schemes designed by Head Gardener, Elliott Forsyth, unusual plants (to see and buy), somewhere beautiful to while away an hour or two, an all seasons plantsman’s paradise, woodland walks by a sparkling burn leading to the sea.

John Sparshatt

Oilseed Rape in field near Kingsbarns

Seen from Cambo Gardens and looking out to sea. The word "rape" as applied to oilseed crops is derived from the Latin word rapum that means turnip. Today turnip rapes and the similar but more common swede rapes are grown for their oil and are widely recognised by their bright yellow flowers that can be seen from late April onwards.

John Sparshatt