St Andrews: The Five Minutes Spare Guide

Historic St Andrews: The Spiritual Home of Scottish Golf

St Andrews is a Scottish town literally named for the patron Saint of our country. You don’t get much more Scottish than that. You can find this University town in the mid-eastern area of the country, in Fife and on the coast somewhere north of Edinburgh. It is perhaps best known for harbouring the oldest University in Scotland – and the 3rd oldest in the English-speaking world.

But there’s so much more to this ancient town than academia and golf (though we’ll cover plenty of both). This is where Scotland’s religious and educational heart beats strongest, where princes learn alongside commoners, and where you can walk on beaches that inspired Chariots of Fire while dodging golf balls from the world’s most famous course. Anyway, let’s start our tour with a little bit of history…

The Ancient History of St Andrews

It is believed that people first settled in this area during the Stone Age, with evidence suggesting human presence as early as 10,000 BC. Whether or not the stones date back that far we cannot say, but the Vikings certainly liked it enough to attack multiple times. Legend has it they were staved off by Constantine I, who went on to have the church built to commemorate his prowess.

St Andrews is so old that its first recorded important kirk dates to 747 AD. The town grew around the cult of St Andrew – Scotland’s patron saint whose bones were supposedly brought here by St Rule (or Regulus, depending on who’s telling the story). Whether you believe the legend or not, the religious significance made St Andrews the ecclesiastical capital of Scotland for centuries.

The cathedral, begun in 1158, was once Scotland’s largest and most magnificent church. For over 300 years, it dominated not just the skyline but Scottish religious life. Pilgrims traveled from across Europe to visit St Andrew’s shrine, making this one of medieval Europe’s most important pilgrimage destinations.

St Andrews & The Reformation

St Andrews played a pivotal role in the Scottish Reformation. The town witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in Scottish religious history, including the burning of Protestant reformers and later the destruction of the cathedral during the Reformed fury of 1559.

John Knox preached here, students debated theology in heated exchanges that would shape Scottish Protestantism, and the ancient religious power structures crumbled in ways that still echo today. Anyone with any sense doesn’t care about the old religious divisions anymore – but say the name of the wrong football team in the wrong part of Scotland and you’ll still find trouble. What football and religion have to do with each other, most of us will never understand, but that’s a debate for another time.

The university, founded in 1413, survived the Reformation and became a centre of learning that attracted scholars from across Europe. Today, it welcomes students from around the world, including a certain Prince William who met his future wife Kate here in the early 2000s. The university term brings thousands of gown-wearing students cycling through the narrow streets – it’s like stepping into a Harry Potter film, but with more golf.

Fun Facts About St Andrews

Every historic town has its secrets, and St Andrews has been accumulating them for over a millennium. Here are the stories that’ll make you the most interesting person at any dinner party:

• The PH Rule: At the university, male students must wear their undergraduate gowns whenever they’re out after sunset during term time. Break this rule and you’ll be fined. It’s charmingly medieval and occasionally leads to amusing encounters in modern nightclubs.
• The Pier Walk Tradition: Students walk to the end of the harbor pier on Sundays after church – it’s been happening for centuries and continues today, though church attendance has become rather more optional.
• Golf Ball Collecting: Local kids still make pocket money collecting golf balls from the beach and selling them back to golfers. It’s practically a St Andrews rite of passage.
• The Martyrs’ Monument: The tower overlooking the town commemorates Protestant martyrs burned at the stake. It’s visible from miles away and serves as a stark reminder of the town’s turbulent religious history.
• Secret Tunnels: The castle has a siege mine and counter-mine that you can actually crawl through – they’re genuine 16th-century tunnels dug during a two-year siege that reads like something from a cartoon.
• Royal Romance: Prince William and Kate Middleton’s love story began here when they were both students. The university now gets applications from hopeful romantics worldwide.
• Chariots of Fire: Those iconic beach running scenes were filmed on West Sands, though the actual 1924 Olympics runners trained in Cambridge, not St Andrews.

 

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

St Andrews is spectacular year-round, but timing matters for different experiences. Summer (June-August) brings the warmest weather, longest days, and busiest crowds – perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploring, but book accommodation well ahead. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the sweet spot of decent weather with fewer tourists. The university term times (September-May) bring energy and atmosphere but also crowds and higher prices. Winter has its own magic – dramatic coastal storms, cozy pubs, and you’ll have the historic sites mostly to yourself, though some attractions have reduced hours.

Golf season runs year-round, but the Old Course ballot system means summer bookings are most competitive. If golf’s your priority, consider shoulder seasons for better availability and lower prices.

Budget Guide

St Andrews can range from student-budget friendly to luxury expensive, depending on your choices:

Accommodation: Student hostels £20-35, B&Bs £60-100, mid-range hotels £100-180, luxury hotels £200+

Food: Student café meals £5-8, pub lunches £8-15, restaurant dinners £15-30, fine dining £40+

Attractions: Free (beaches, ruins, window shopping) to £15 (castle, cathedral, museums)

Golf: Old Course green fees £270 in summer (if you get a ballot), municipal courses from £30

Transport: Mostly walkable, buses £2-4, taxis within town £8-15

A comfortable day for two typically costs £80-120 including attractions, meals, and a few drinks. Students and budget travelers can easily manage on £40-50 per day.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

Student Accommodations – During summer months, several colleges rent rooms to visitors. Basic but clean, with the bonus of staying where actual royalty once slept (well, in similar rooms).

Backpackers Hostels – A few options in town, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and getting insider tips from staff who know every hidden corner.

Budget B&Bs – Family-run establishments often provide the best value and most local knowledge. Many are within walking distance of everything important.

Mid-Range Comfort

The Scores Hotel – Overlooking the Old Course with stunning sea views. The location alone is worth the price.

Fairmont St Andrews – Technically outside town but offers luxury amenities including two championship golf courses and a spa.

Historic Hotels – Several beautifully restored buildings offer character accommodation with modern comforts.

Luxury & Unique Stays

Old Course Hotel – The ultimate golfer’s dream, literally overlooking the 17th hole. Even non-golfers appreciate the dramatic location.

University Guest Houses – Some university buildings offer guest accommodation, letting you live like academic royalty.

Castle Cottages – Restored historic properties around town, perfect for longer stays or families wanting space.

Local Insider Tip

Book early during graduation week (June), university start (September), and major golf tournaments. The town has limited accommodation and prices can triple during peak events.

The Best Attractions in St Andrews

So if you have a few days to spend in St Andrews, what do you get up to? Let’s find out in our expanded guide, as told by an actual Scot (who supports no football teams whatsoever)…

Historic Sites

St Andrews Castle – This is actually an awesome sight that deserves the top spot. This ruined castle has been partially restored by Historic Environment Scotland, and you can go in, have a look around, and imagine how the other half lived. But better than all of this – it has a story!

The legend goes that Cardinal Beaton was murdered here in his bed in 1546. When his body was discovered and the assassination made public, it triggered a siege that lasted two whole years. Rather than sit outside and wait, the attackers built a mine to dig into the castle. The occupants dug a counter-mine, and eventually everything descended into predictable chaos. Essentially, St Andrews Castle is the only one in Scotland whose history reads like a cartoon featuring “ACME” products.

Pro tip: You can actually crawl through both the mine and counter-mine – they’re narrow, dark, and genuinely exciting for anyone who doesn’t suffer from claustrophobia.

St Andrews Cathedral Ruins – Once Scotland’s largest cathedral and the center of medieval religious life. The ruins are atmospheric and free to explore, though climbing St Rule’s Tower (33 meters tall) requires an entrance fee and reasonable fitness. The view from the top shows you the entire town layout and dramatic coastline.

The cathedral museum houses an impressive collection of medieval stone carvings and tells the story of Scotland’s religious transformation. It’s sobering to think this magnificent building was deliberately destroyed during the Reformation – you can still see the precision of the destruction in how cleanly the walls were taken down.

St Andrews University – Founded in 1413, this is Scotland’s oldest university and the third-oldest in the English-speaking world. The buildings are genuinely impressive, from the medieval St Salvator’s College to the modern science facilities. During term time, you’ll see students in their red undergraduate gowns cycling through the narrow streets – it’s like Hogwarts but with better pubs.

The University Quadrangles – These medieval courtyards are architectural gems. St Salvator’s Quad hosts graduation ceremonies and has a cobblestone pattern students must avoid stepping on (apparently it brings bad luck in exams).

St Andrews: The Spiritual Home of Golf

We are not golf-mad here, we swear! However, it’s common knowledge that Scots love golf. Something about those wet and windy courses really makes us feel at home. In St Andrews you can find the oldest known golf course in the whole entire world.

The Old Course – You can even book a day pass and play on it if you like, though be prepared for the ballot system (essentially a lottery) and eye-watering green fees. There are eighteen holes with stunning coastal views, and the clubhouse is genuinely special. Even non-golfers should walk across the famous Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole – it’s free and you’ll get that iconic St Andrews photo.

British Golf Museum – If you like golf enough to play it, the museum seems like a win. It’s right next to the Old Course and tells the complete story of golf’s development from its St Andrews origins to the modern global sport.

Golf Ball Collecting – Looking for something free to do in St Andrews with kids? Take them down to the coast and collect golf balls. You may even be able to sell them back to the players if you have the gift of the gab. If not, sell them online and make some cash for other St Andrews activities.

Warning: Watch out for flying balls near the Old Course. Seriously. The course runs right through town, and wayward shots can surprise unwary tourists.

Cultural Attractions

Eden Mill Distillery – Almost predictably, one of the best-rated St Andrews attractions on TripAdvisor is the Eden Mill distillery. Here you can tour the facility, taste aged cask whisky alongside their newest gins, or send relatives on a tour as a gift. The whole experience is apparently exemplary. Alcohol isn’t top of our list of family activities (think of the children!), but if it’s your thing, you’ll love this.

St Andrews Aquarium – We are genuinely jealous of this attraction. As well as displaying fish, you can see seals, dwarf crocodiles, and Humboldt penguins. Less aquatic but equally charming residents include marmosets and meerkats (who fortunately won’t try to sell you car insurance). It’s perfect for families and surprisingly educational.

Crawford Arts Centre – Local arts venue showcasing contemporary Scottish artists. The exhibitions change regularly, and there’s often live music or theater performances.

Outdoor Attractions

West Sands Beach – Don’t forget that St Andrews is a coastal town with one of Fife’s best beaches. Being relatively close to Edinburgh doesn’t usually help with pollution, but Scotland made dedicated efforts to clean up her shores, and St Andrews beach is lovely. On sunny days, kids can spend hours crab hunting, rock pooling, and building sandcastles. You can still do all three in the rain, but it’s not as safe.

This is also where the famous Chariots of Fire beach running scene was filmed, so you can recreate that iconic slow-motion moment (though you might get some odd looks from locals).

East Sands Beach – Smaller and more sheltered than West Sands, perfect for families with young children. The harbor area is great for watching boats and spotting seals.

Botanic Garden – Peaceful gardens showcasing plants from around the world. Particularly beautiful in spring and summer, with lovely walking paths and educational displays.

Coastal Walk – The Fife Coastal Path runs right through St Andrews, offering spectacular cliff-top walking in both directions. The walk to Crail (south) is particularly rewarding.

Where to Eat and Drink

Traditional Scottish Fare

The Criterion – Historic pub serving excellent traditional meals with a good selection of Scottish beers and whiskies. The atmosphere is authentically local without being unwelcoming to visitors.

The Jigger Inn – Right next to the Old Course, this tiny pub is legendary among golfers. The fish and chips are excellent, and the walls are covered with golf memorabilia.

Student Favorites

Northpoint Café – Popular with students and locals alike. Excellent coffee, fresh sandwiches, and reasonable prices. Perfect for people-watching through the large windows.

Jannettas Gelateria – This Italian ice cream parlor has been a St Andrews institution since 1908. The queues outside tell you everything you need quality.

The Cottage Kitchen – Cozy café serving home baking and light meals. Their afternoon tea is legendary among locals.

Fine Dining

The Seafood Restaurant – Overlooking West Sands with floor-to-ceiling windows and exceptional Scottish seafood. Expensive but worth it for special occasions.

Forgan’s Restaurant – Upscale dining in a former Victorian swimming pool building. The setting is unique and the food consistently excellent.

International Cuisine

Balaka Restaurant – The best Indian food in St Andrews, popular with students and locals. Reliable quality and reasonable prices.

Mitchell’s Deli – New York-style deli with excellent sandwiches, salads, and imported specialties.

Pubs and Nightlife

The Rule – Traditional Scottish pub with live music and a good whisky selection. Gets busy during term time but maintains its character.

The Central Bar – Student favorite with pool tables, quiz nights, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Aikman’s Cellar – Underground bar with stone walls and vaulted ceilings. Atmospheric and popular with both students and locals.

Shopping

Local Specialties

St Andrews Woollen Mill – Traditional Scottish woolens, tartans, and gifts. Perfect for authentic Scottish souvenirs.

Luvians Bottle Shop – Exceptional selection of Scottish whiskies, gins, and local beers. Staff are knowledgeable and helpful with recommendations.

J&G Innes – Traditional Scottish baker producing oatcakes, shortbread, and other local specialties.

University and Golf Merchandise

University Shop – Official St Andrews University merchandise, from hoodies to formal scarves.

Old Course Pro Shop – Golf equipment and St Andrews golf memorabilia. Even non-golfers appreciate the quality merchandise.

Independent Shops

Topping & Company Booksellers – Beautiful independent bookstore with an excellent Scottish section and knowledgeable staff.

Fisher & Donaldson – Local bakery chain famous for their “fudge doughnuts” – a St Andrews must-try.

Annual Events and Festivals

Kate Kennedy Procession (April)

Student-organized historical pageant featuring costumed characters representing St Andrews’ history. It’s charmingly amateur and genuinely entertaining.

St Andrews Festival (July-August)

Summer festival featuring music, theater, and arts events throughout the town. Many events are free and family-friendly.

Graduation Week (June)

The town transforms as thousands of families arrive for graduation ceremonies. Academic processions in medieval dress, proud families, and celebration dinners create a special atmosphere.

Open Championship (when held at St Andrews)

Every five years or so, the town hosts golf’s most prestigious tournament. The atmosphere is electric, but accommodation becomes nearly impossible to find.

Students’ Union Events (Term Time)

Regular entertainment, including traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing, comedy nights, and themed parties that visitors can often attend.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day Highlights (4 hours)

Morning: St Andrews Castle and cathedral ruins (2 hours) Afternoon: Walk through university area, coffee on Market Street, browse shops Perfect for: First-time visitors or those with limited time

Full Day Classic Experience

Morning: Castle and cathedral exploration Lunch: Traditional pub meal Afternoon: Old Course walk, British Golf Museum, West Sands beach Evening: Dinner overlooking the sea Perfect for: First-time visitors wanting the complete St Andrews experience

Student Life Immersion

Morning: University tour and quadrangles Lunch: Student café experience Afternoon: Academic museum visits, bookshop browsing Evening: Traditional pub with local students Perfect for: University enthusiasts and prospective students

Golf Pilgrimage (2 days)

Day 1: Old Course, British Golf Museum, golf shops

Day 2: Other local courses, Eden Mill distillery, golf equipment shopping

Perfect for: Serious golf enthusiasts

Family Adventure Weekend

Day 1: Aquarium, beach activities, castle exploration

Day 2: Botanic gardens, coastal walk, ice cream at Jannettas

Perfect for: Families with children

History and Culture Deep Dive

Day 1: All historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions

Day 2: Edinburgh day trip or local castle visits

Perfect for: History buffs and culture enthusiasts

Accessibility Information

St Andrews’ ancient streets present some accessibility challenges, but significant improvements have been made. The castle and cathedral sites have accessible viewing areas, though the full experiences (climbing towers, exploring tunnels) may not be suitable for everyone.

Modern attractions like the aquarium and Eden Mill are fully accessible. Many restaurants and shops have made accessibility improvements, though some historic buildings have natural limitations.

The university provides excellent accessibility support and can arrange tours suitable for various mobility needs. West Sands beach has accessibility parking and some pathway access.

Local Tips and Hidden Gems

Secret Spots

The Scores: The clifftop road offers spectacular views and is perfect for sunset photography.

Lade Braes Walk: A peaceful riverside walk that most tourists miss, perfect for escaping crowds.

Cathedral Photogenic Spot: The best castle photos are taken from the cathedral grounds, not from the castle itself.

Insider Knowledge

Student Gown Spotting: Red gowns are undergraduates, black are postgraduates. During exam time, you’ll see students touching the PH (Patrick Hamilton) initials in the road for luck.

Free University Access: Most university buildings are open to respectful visitors during the day. The libraries are particularly impressive.

Golf Ball Beach: The area between the Old Course and West Sands is the best for finding golf balls, especially after windy days.

Local Weather: Sea mist can roll in quickly, especially in summer. Always pack a jacket.

Parking Strategy: Arrive early for weekend parking, or use the park-and-ride from outside town.

Best Photo Opportunities

Dawn at the Castle: Early morning light on the castle ruins with the sea behind is magical.

Graduation Day: Academic processions through the medieval streets are visually stunning.

Winter Storms: The coastline during rough weather is dramatic and powerful.

Day Trips from St Andrews

Edinburgh (1.5 hours)

Scotland’s capital offers world-class attractions, shopping, and dining. Easy by bus or train.

Stirling (1.5 hours)

Historic castle, battlefield sites, and beautiful countryside.

The East Neuk Villages (30 minutes – 1 hour)

Picturesque fishing villages including Crail, Anstruther, and Pittenweem.

Dundee (45 minutes)

V&A Design Museum, Discovery Point, and urban attractions.

Perth (1 hour)

Historic town with excellent shopping and beautiful riverside walks.

Loch Lomond (2 hours)

Scotland’s most famous loch with stunning mountain scenery.

Transportation

Getting to St Andrews

By Car: A90 north from Edinburgh, then A91 to St Andrews. Journey time approximately 1.5 hours.

By Bus: Regular services from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and other Scottish cities. Stagecoach and Megabus provide reliable connections.

By Train: Nearest station is Leuchars (10 minutes by bus), with regular services from Edinburgh and beyond.

By Air: Edinburgh Airport (1.5 hours) or Glasgow Airport (2 hours) with onward bus connections.

Local Transport

Walking: Best option for town center exploration Cycling: Bike rental available from several outlets Local Buses: Connect residential areas and nearby villages Taxis: Readily available, especially near the university and main hotels

Weather and What to Pack

St Andrews weather is typically Scottish – changeable and often windy due to the coastal location. Even in summer, temperatures rarely exceed 20°C (68°F), and rain is always possible.

Essential Items: Waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, layers for temperature changes, and a warm sweater even in summer.

Photography Equipment: The light can be spectacular but changes quickly, so be ready to capture those magical Scottish moments.

Golf Considerations: If playing, pack extra waterproofs and wind-resistant gear.

Final Thoughts

St Andrews is one of those rare places where ancient history meets modern vitality, where world-famous traditions continue alongside cutting-edge research, and where you can experience both royal grandeur and genuine local charm.

Whether you’re a golf pilgrim making your sacred journey to the Old Course, a history enthusiast exploring Scotland’s ecclesiastical heart, a university visitor following in royal footsteps, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful coastal towns with character, St Andrews delivers something special.

The town has mastered the art of being simultaneously touristy and authentic. Yes, you’ll queue for ice cream at Jannettas alongside visitors from around the world, but you’ll also share pubs with local fishermen and students who’ve been coming here for generations. The golf courses are world-famous, but the fish and chips are what locals actually argue about.

It’s expensive compared to many Scottish towns, crowded during peak times, and the weather can be typically Scottish (read: wet and windy). But there’s a reason people have been drawn here for over a millennium – St Andrews has a magic that transcends its practical limitations.

Just remember to pack your waterproofs, respect the student traditions, and don’t step on the PH initials unless you’re facing exams. This is Scotland, after all, where even the superstitions have history.

Whether you are just passing through St. Andrews or you intend to go for a full holiday, here are our best sights to see when you get there

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