Fife
Locator map for the Scottish administrative region of Fife.
Unitary authority in eastern Scotland, which was formerly a region of three districts (1975–96) and a county until 1974.
Area
1,321 sq km/510 sq mi
Towns
Cupar, Dunfermline, Glenrothes (administrative headquarters), Kirkcaldy, St Andrews
Physical
coastal area, predominantly low lying, undulating interior with dramatic escarpment at Lomond Hills; rivers Eden and Leven flow through
Features
; University of St Andrews, Old Course, St Andrews, former Rosyth naval base
Industries
electronics, petrochemicals, light engineering, oil servicing, paper
Agriculture
potatoes, cereals, sugar beet, fishing (especially from Pittenweem)
Population
(2001) 349,400
History Tentsmuir, a coastal sand-dune area in the north, is possibly the earliest settled site in Scotland; the ancient palace of the Stuarts (16th century) was at Falkland; eight Scottish kings are buried at Dunfermline |
Architecture Buildings of interest include the Norman church at Leuchars, and the mansion house at Earlshall (16th–17th century) nearby; Balmerino Abbey (13th century) near Wormit; in St Andrews, the ruined cathedral (1161), St Regulus church (12th century), and the university (15th century) |
Economy At one time Fife's economy was dominated by the coalmining industry; this industry is not so important now, although some of the most modern and mechanized pits in Scotland are located in the area. It has a mixed economy, although the economic profiles differ dramatically within the area. St Andrews has a thriving service sector and tourist base, Glenrothes (New Town) has contemporary electronics industries, much of the northeast is predominantly agricultural. |
Environment There are numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserves, Ramsar (wetland site), Special Protection Areas, a regional park, and country parks. |
Administrative history The districts of Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy and North East Fife made up Fife region, which is now known as Fife unitary authority. |
fife
Small transverse flute, originally with finger holes, without keys, and of similar range to the piccolo. Of Swiss origin, the fife is a popular military band instrument, played with the side drums and associated with historic parades. The name is now used for a military flute in B flat, with six finger holes and several keys.
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