St Andrews

Rolling greens and storied streets – St Andrews is where fairway meets folklore

Nestled neatly into the coastline, foam-flecked by the wild North Sea, lies the fairytale town of St Andrews. Here cobblestone streets twist and turn, leading to charming antique stores, bright galleries and bookshops to get lost in. Infused with the quiet buzz of its university town status, St Andrews offers the perfect balance of coffee shop charm and bracing outdoor adventure. Craggy clifftop cathedrals, sandy surfable beaches and scenic coastal walks all stir the soul, while a warm welcome (and a wee dram) awaits in any number of historic pubs. St Andrews invites you to immerse yourself in Scottish history and hospitality, as you embrace the magic of this unforgettable town.

Things to do

LOCAL ADVENTURES
Famed for its exceptional golfing, don’t miss the opportunity to swing a club at St Andrews. Those taking to the links can expect sea air, breathtaking views and challenging courses you’ll replay in your mind for years to come. But there’s plenty to discover beyond the fairways. History buffs can trace the town’s medieval past at the cathedral ruins and imposing castle. For a slower pace, a stroll along West Sands Beach offers sweeping coastal views and a chance to follow in the footsteps of film history, as you recreate your own Chariots of Fire sprint finish. Or, for the brave of heart, take to the shadowy lanes as the sun sets for a thrilling, chilling ghost tour.

FOOD AND DRINK
Fresh seafood is a standout at St Andrews, from just-landed lobster and crab to hearty bowls of Cullen skink, best enjoyed with sea views. Traditional Scottish fare sits comfortably alongside contemporary fine dining, where innovative chefs showcase the best of local produce. Quaint tearooms tempt with home-baked treats, while cosy pubs pour golden whisky that warms against the coastal chill. Artisan delis line the streets, perfect for a relaxed bite between rounds of golf or sightseeing. Whether you’re raising a glass of single malt, sampling seasonal tasting menus or tucking into fish and chips on the beach, food and drink in St Andrews is sure to form many fond memories.

HISTORY
St Andrews’ history is woven from legend, learning and leisure – a place where saints, scholars and golfers have all left their mark across the centuries. Named for Scotland’s patron saint, it has been a centre of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages, its ruined cathedral once the largest in the country. The founding of the University of St Andrews in 1413 added another layer of prestige, making it one of the oldest seats of learning in the English-speaking world. Yet beyond the cloisters, the rolling links tell another story – this is the birthplace of golf, where the game has been played for over six centuries. From sacred relics to scholarly halls and sweeping fairways, St Andrews is a town where history lingers in every stone and stretch of sand.