Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price
28/08/2025
Valentine Kulikov, Pexels
St Andrews, a historic Scottish town on the Fife coast, offers a unique blend of world-renowned golfing heritage, ancient university prestige, and captivating medieval ruins. Visitors are drawn to its scenic coastal walks, beautiful beaches, and charming architecture.
St Andrews provides a lively pub scene concentrated along its main streets, North, Market, and South Streets, where intimate bars and pubs offer welcoming spaces to socialise. While the town does not feature large nightclubs, places like The Vic offer a more energetic late-night atmosphere, and many establishments cater to both students and tourists alike.
Top 7 Things to do in St Andrews
St Andrews presents a range of activities focusing on its historical sites, scenic coastline, and deep connection to the sport of golf.
1. St Andrews Cathedral and St Rule's Tower
Explore the extensive ruins of Scotland's largest medieval cathedral, once a pivotal pilgrimage site. Visitors can walk among the remnants, imagining its former grandeur. The adjacent St Rule's Tower, predating the cathedral, historically offered panoramic views across the town, the coastline, and the surrounding Fife landscape. Note: The tower and museum are currently undergoing restoration, so visitors should check for the latest access information before planning to ascend. When accessible, climbing the tower provides a unique perspective on the historical layout and natural beauty of St Andrews.
Cost: Grounds access is free. Access to St Rule's Tower and the museum (if open) may have a small fee or be part of a guided tour, usually requiring local inquiry.
Transport: The cathedral is centrally located and within easy walking distance of most of the town's key attractions.
2. St Andrews Castle
Perched dramatically on a headland overlooking the North Sea, the ruins of St Andrews Castle offer a compelling insight into Scotland's turbulent past. One can explore the remains of its towers and chapel, delve into the infamous 'bottle dungeon' – one of medieval Britain's most notorious prisons – and navigate the underground 16th-century siege mine and counter-mine. This site provides an immersive historical experience with stunning coastal backdrops.
Cost: Adult entry is approximately £10. Concession and family tickets are available.
Transport: The castle is centrally located on The Scores, easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the town centre.
3. The Old Course and Swilcan Bridge
Experience the legendary Old Course, revered worldwide as the 'Home of Golf.' Even if one is not playing, walking parts of the course offers a unique connection to golf history. Visitors can take a guided walking tour to learn about its centuries-old fairways and iconic landmarks. A quintessential experience for many is to take a photograph on the Swilcan Bridge, an ancient stone crossing that has been traversed by countless golfing legends. On Sundays, when no play occurs, the course is often open for public walking.
Cost: Guided walking tours typically cost around £16 per person. . Walking the course on Sundays (when available) is free.
Transport: The Old Course is situated adjacent to the town centre and West Sands Beach, making it easily walkable from most accommodations.
4. West Sands Beach
Stretching for nearly two miles of golden sands, West Sands Beach is backed by dunes and the world-renowned Old Course. It gained international fame as the setting for the opening scenes of the film 'Chariots of Fire.' This expansive beach is perfect for leisurely walks, invigorating runs, or swimming during the summer months when lifeguards are present. Local providers also offer various watersports, including landyachting, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing, providing opportunities for active enjoyment. Its natural beauty and open space offer a refreshing escape.
Cost: Free to access. Watersport activities will have separate costs. Parking charges may apply at the nearby car park.
Transport: The beach is approximately a 15-minute walk from the town centre. Public car parking is available at the beach.
5. R&A World Golf Museum
Located directly opposite the Old Course, the R&A World Golf Museum provides an immersive journey through over 500 years of golf history. Its engaging galleries showcase a vast collection of memorabilia, ranging from ancient clubs and balls to prestigious trophies and historical golf fashion. Interactive exhibits illustrate the sport's evolution, making it enjoyable for all ages, including those new to golf. The museum also features a café with panoramic views overlooking the Old Course and St Andrews Bay.
Cost: Adult entry is approximately £10, with the ticket typically valid for two days. Children under 16 usually enter free.
Transport: The museum is a short 5-minute walk from the town centre. Public car parking is available on-site, which is free from November to March and paid at other times.
6. St Andrews Botanic Garden
These 18-acre gardens offer a tranquil and picturesque retreat with a diverse collection of plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can enjoy serene woodland walks, explore various themed areas such as the Rock Garden and Rhododendron Glade, and observe local wildlife, including red squirrels. It is a peaceful space ideal for a relaxing stroll, a picnic, or for those interested in botany and natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Cost: Adult admission is approximately £6. Children under 16 and students (with valid ID) often receive free entry.
Transport: The gardens are a pleasant walk from the town centre, or easily accessible by the local 93 bus. A free car park is available on-site.
7. Explore University of St Andrews Buildings
St Andrews is home to Scotland's oldest university, founded in 1411, whose presence deeply shapes the town's character. Exploring its historic buildings, such as the grand St Salvator's Chapel with its peaceful garden, and the secluded St Mary's Quad, provides a captivating insight into centuries of academic heritage. The architecture is striking, and wandering these ancient grounds allows visitors to soak in the intellectual and historical atmosphere that permeates this esteemed institution.
Cost: Generally free to explore the exterior and public access areas of the university buildings. Specific exhibitions or events may have a charge.
Transport: Many key university buildings are seamlessly integrated into the town centre, making them easily accessible on foot from any central location.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
