Restaurant owner Damon Reynolds believes that the tapestry of businesses in the historic village of Crail is so rich that there’s no real need to leave the community.
And the year-round support is critical to the future of this picturesque pocket of Fife’s East Neuk.
“I truly believe that Crail is one of Scotland’s last self-sustaining communities”, The Shoregate owner says.
“If you never wanted to leave, you wouldn’t have to. We have fantastic local businesses from hairdressers to butchers and bakers. Crucially, the community pride here is second to none.
“We all support each other. Supporting local businesses is critical, not only for the sustainability of places like Crail, but for ensuring success.
“The message from Crail’s business community is a simple one: for vibrant local high streets, independent shops and welcoming hospitality venues to continue and thrive, supporting local businesses must remain a priority.”
It’s a message which is being championed strongly in the village as part of Scotland Loves Local Week, which runs until Saturday (June 20th) and which calls on the nation to choose local.
Businesses in Crail are backing the campaign for everyone to help build stronger, better communities for the future – protecting businesses and jobs – by spending with enterprises of all kinds in the places they call home.
They are among the communities across Fife – and throughout the country – supporting the week’s theme of Flying The Flag for Local Businesses, coming as national pride hits a high with Scotland competing in its first World Cup in 28 years.
Renowned for its harbour, heritage and strong sense of community, Crail stands as a shining example of how local businesses can help sustain vibrant communities,
From independent retailers and cafes to artisan producers, hospitality and family-run services, local enterprise remains at the heart of life, preserving its unique character.
Damon, the Chair of Crail Traders Association, who reopened The Shoregate, an historic hotel and bar, in 2022 following extensive renovations.
Its restoration carefully balanced heritage and sustainability, breathing new life into one of Crail’s longstanding landmarks while preserving its unique character. Thoughtful details throughout the venue include the incorporation of reclaimed materials, such as historic church pews from Lanarkshire, helping to celebrate Scotland’s heritage whilst repurposing an old asset.
The Shoregate itself can trace its roots as a hospitality venue back to 1895, reflecting the village’s long tradition of welcoming visitors, as well as being an important hub for local residents.
“I have been coming to Crail since I was a boy, with a longstanding history of family holidays here in childhood”, Damon says.
“When the opportunity came to buy this building, myself and my husband Nick saw a real opportunity to create a traditional pub that serves the community as a whole.
“We were passionate about creating a space that was more than just a pub – but provided a hub that really encapsulates a sense of community.
“We deliberately curated an experience that was unique – we didn’t want to be a competitor to other local hospitality venues, but wanted to complement the existing offering here in Crail. The beers we have on tap are all local, but are also unique to The Shoregate.
“We employ 18 members of staff, all of whom are local to this area, and we source as much of our ingredients from local businesses here in Crail and down the road in St Andrews.
“The idea of a circular economy and making the most of what is on offer right on our doorstep has been a central ethos from the very beginning.”
The village’s history of local enterprise stretches back centuries.
Alongside its harbour, which once played a significant role in Scotland’s fishing industry, Crail is also home to one of the world’s oldest golfing societies. Established in 1786, the Crail Golfing Society predates many of the institutions that have come to define Scotland’s reputation as the home of golf and remains an important part of the community today.
That blend of heritage, community and enterprise continues to attract visitors from around the world, providing a valuable boost to local businesses. However, business owners say the support of local people remains just as important as tourism in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the village.
Elaine Johnston is the owner of Salon Sixty 5 hairdressers, which has been serving clients in Crail since it was opened by her mother in 1980.
She says: “Local support is crucial for businesses here in Crail. Initiatives such as Scotland Loves Local are a reminder to avail of what’s on your doorstep, all year round.”
Scotland Loves Local is spearheaded by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the organisation which champions the critical part that towns and local neighbourhoods play in creating a stronger, fairer, wealthier Scotland, and is supported by the Scottish Government.
Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s Chief Officer, believes passionately in the power of localism – and the transformational impact that everyone supporting local businesses can have.
“Every penny spent with a local business of any kind supports the job of a neighbour, friend or family member in your community,” she says.
“It protects businesses, supports services, builds community wealth and gives people the confidence to invest further in their place, creating energy, vibrancy and fantastic platform upon which to build a new future.
“We’re delighted to see Crail Traders Association – and the amazing independent businesses which are part of it – getting behind Scotland Loves Local Week and flying the flag for choosing local.
“Supporting local businesses is a simple step we can all take which has a profound impact.”
Considering that impact, Damon adds: “There’s an undeniable sense of nostalgia when you walk through Crail and look into the windows of the local businesses that have served the community for generations.
“But preserving that isn’t about nostalgia alone. It’s about making sure these businesses are here for future generations. Support local businesses or they won’t be here tomorrow, it really is as simple as that.”
