Things To Do
in Saint Andrews
Saint Andrews is a historic university town on Scotland's east coast, famed for its world-renowned golf links and atmospheric medieval streets. The town combines scholarly heritage with rugged coastal scenery, where cobbled lanes lead to cliff-top views and ancient ruins. Its compact center is perfect for walking, with shops, pubs, and cafes clustered around the harbor and university quarter.
Beyond the town, the surrounding countryside and the Fife coastline offer scenic beaches, nature trails, and coastal villages waiting to be explored.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic center, absorbing the medieval architecture that surrounds you. Visit the impressive St. Andrews Cathedral ruins, where you can explore the remains of this once-grand structure and enjoy stunning views of the coastline. Don't forget to stop by the nearby St. Andrews Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural significance.
After a delightful lunch at a local café, head to the picturesque St. Andrews Castle, where you can wander through the ruins and explore the fascinating underground mine. The castle's dramatic coastal location provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. As the afternoon sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the castle cliffs, embracing the breathtaking views of the North Sea.
As evening falls, indulge in a traditional Scottish dinner at a cozy local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood or haggis. After your meal, explore the vibrant nightlife of St. Andrews, perhaps enjoying a pint at a local pub or catching live music. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a serene atmosphere.
Start your day early with a visit to the iconic Prestwick Golf Club, the birthplace of the Open Championship. Enjoy a round of golf on this historic course, surrounded by stunning scenery and challenging holes that will test your skills. Take a moment to appreciate the rich golfing heritage as you walk the same fairways trodden by legends of the sport.
After your game, unwind with a delicious lunch at the clubhouse, where you can relive the highlights of your play. Spend the afternoon visiting the British Golf Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history of golf and discover fascinating exhibits. Consider trying your hand at some mini-golf at a nearby course for a bit of light-hearted fun.
Dine at a nearby bistro renowned for its local cuisine, offering a delightful menu that features regional ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll along the waterfront, where the setting sun casts a golden hue over the water. Conclude your day with a visit to a local ice cream shop, savoring a sweet treat while enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night | $100-220 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class golf heritage and iconic courses
- Compact, walkable town with historic architecture
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to the Fife coastline
- Strong university and cultural scene with theatres and galleries
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer periods
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Some attractions require advance bookings or long waits
- Weather can be unpredictable; plan for rain and wind
Places to Visit in Saint Andrews
Visit one of these nice places.
Atmospheric stone ruins with sea views and dramatic light, especially during morning or late afternoon golden hours.
Long sandy beach with dunes and dramatic skies; great for wide-angle coastal shots and long exposures.
Colorful boats, rustic boathouses, and walking quayside views perfect for maritime photography.
Ruins perched above the coast offering silhouettes and warm sunset tones over the North Sea.
Food in Saint Andrews
Saint Andrews Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock and potato soup, a comforting coastal classic often found in seafood-focused pubs and bistros.
Must-Try!
A traditional Scottish dish featuring savory sheeps' stomach casing with mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties).
Smoked haddock delicacy from nearby Arbroath, often served warm with bread or in salads and light dishes.
Fresh Atlantic salmon or local fish in a hearty chowder, highlighting the region’s seafood bounty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Monthly market showcasing local produce, artisanal foods, and seasonal fare near Market Street and The Scores.
Seasonal stalls by the harbor offering fresh catches, fish and chips, and quick bites with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queueing is respected; speak politely, use 'please' and 'thank you', and avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces.
Be mindful around ruins and religious sites; follow signs and avoid climbing on protected structures.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Andrews
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of about 10-15% in cafes and restaurants is common if service is not included; you can round up for small orders. Tipping isn't compulsory but appreciated for good service.
Card payments (credit/debit) are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller establishments and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Gentle weather with blooming gardens, longer daylight hours, and city cafés reopening after winter.
Warm, long days ideal for outdoor activities; expect more visitors and occasional midges at dusk near water.
Mild days with vibrant coastal scenery and fewer crowds; perfect for photography and coastal walks.
Shorter days and often windy, with crisp coastlines and moody skies; indoor cultural venues offer warm refuge.
Saint Andrews at Night
Hiking in Saint Andrews
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking with sea views, cliff-top paths, and scenic villages along the East Neuk.
Easy to moderate loop with views over the town and sea, suitable for a relaxed afternoon.
Forest and beach combination near nearby Tayport; good for longer beach walks and wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Saint Andrews by plane.
Major international gateway about 60-90 miles from Saint Andrews; best reached by train or coach via Dundee or Cupar.
Small regional airport offering limited flights; convenient to reach via road or rail to nearby towns.
Another international option roughly 85-100 miles away; accessible by rail or road connections through central Scotland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population due to the University of St Andrews, contributing to a youthful, scholarly atmosphere.
Long-time residents who maintain a welcoming, community-focused vibe in the town center.
Seasonal influx of visitors attracted by golf, coastal scenery, and historic sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Saint Andrews is synonymous with golf; many famed courses, clubs, and pro shops populate the area, making it a must-visit for fans.
Local clubs and university teams support a traditional Scottish rugby culture with matches and social events.
Local teams and patrons engage in football culture around town; matches and fan gatherings occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Andrews.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most pubs and cafés; look for veggie mains, soups, and salads, and ask for customization.
Many places offer gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts. Ask staff about cross-contamination and dedicated GF options when ordering seafood and meat dishes.