Betty Nicols

Betty Nicols is a B listed building, situated at the East End of Kirkcaldy.

Historical documentation for the property dates back to 1741 for a hostelry on the site and the pub as it is now was built as an exact replica of the original in 1902 with a plaque on the outside of the building confirming this. Inside the building you will find many of its original features including tiles and stained glass windows. Adam Smith (1723-1790), the world renowned philosopher and author of the Wealth of Nations was born 200 yards from the property in his family home on the High Street. The Adam Smith Global Foundation is based in Kirkcaldy and Betty Nicols is the only public house included in his Heritage Trail as given that he enjoyed his beer, it is likely he visited the original Betty Nicols.

‘The cellar area, where the outlook was to the sea, contains a blocked up tunnel which we believe to have been used by smugglers in bygone years’

Our pub also has a reputation for ghosts and we have had several visits from psychics and the Scottish Paranormal Society, who have found activity in all parts of the pub. In particular the cellar area, which is part of the original building and is reputed to be built on a monks’ cemetery, has a strange atmosphere and presence and the lounge area is said to be haunted by a man and dog. The cellar area, where the outlook was to the sea, contains a blocked up tunnel which we believe to have been used by smugglers in bygone years and during the Second World War Polish airmen were billeted in the cellar area.

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