Things To Do
in Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews, located on the east coast of Scotland, is renowned as the 'Home of Golf' and is steeped in history dating back to the 12th century. The town features stunning coastal views, ancient ruins, and a vibrant university atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists and students alike. Visitors can explore its charming streets filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites, including the iconic St Andrews Cathedral and Castle.

With its rich heritage and beautiful landscapes, Saint Andrews offers a unique blend of culture, education, and leisure activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Historical Saint Andrews
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to St Andrews Cathedral, exploring its ruins and the adjacent cemetery.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the St Andrews Castle to learn about its history and enjoy views of the coastline.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant on South Street, followed by a walk along the beach at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Golf and Nature
morning
:

Start with a round of golf at the Old Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the world.

afternoon
:

Visit the British Golf Museum to learn about the history of the sport, then enjoy lunch at a nearby pub.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife with drinks at a local bar, perhaps catching some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍕Takeaway Pizza$10-15
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-4
🏨Hotel Night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Vibrant university atmosphere with lively social scene.
  • Weather can be unpredictable and rainy.
  • Limited shopping options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.

Places to Visit in Saint Andrews

Visit one of these nice places.

St Andrews Cathedral

Capture stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset.

The Old Course

Famous for its iconic bridge and lush greens, this is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts and photographers alike.

West Sands Beach

A beautiful stretch of sandy beach perfect for seaside photography, especially with the dramatic clouds of the Scottish sky.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews boasts a rich culinary scene that combines traditional Scottish flavors with modern influences, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

Saint Andrews Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, often served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Must-Try!

Cullen Skink

A hearty soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, perfect for a chilly day.

Shortbread

Buttery, crumbly cookies that are a classic Scottish treat, often enjoyed with tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St Andrews Farmers' Market

Held monthly, this market features local produce, artisanal breads, cheeses, and street food vendors offering a variety of delicious options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint Andrews experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. The average temperature in summer (June to August) is around 17°C (63°F), while winter (December to February) sees averages of about 5°C (41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with autumn and winter receiving the highest precipitation. Wind can also be a factor, especially in coastal areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time for social events and appointments is considered polite.

Respect for Tradition

Saint Andrews has a rich history; respecting local customs and traditions is important.

Queuing

Forming an orderly queue is expected in shops and public transport; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint Andrews is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, as with any location, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid poorly lit areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999.

Tipping in Saint Andrews

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Cash can be used, but it’s becoming less frequent.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and the start of the tourist season. It's a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and longer days, perfect for exploring, but also more tourists. Enjoy local festivals and events.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures. A good time for hiking and enjoying the local harvest at markets.

Winter

Winter can be cold and wet, with fewer tourists. This is a quieter time to enjoy the town’s cozy pubs and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Saint Andrews at Night

Saint Andrews offers a vibrant nightlife scene, primarily centered around its pubs and bars. The town has a mix of traditional Scottish pubs, trendy bars, and a few clubs, catering to the university student population and locals alike. You can find live music, quiz nights, and themed events, particularly on weekends. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet new people.

Hiking in Saint Andrews

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fife Coastal Path

A scenic walking trail that runs along the coastline of Fife, offering stunning sea views and opportunities to explore charming villages.

Balgove Larder

A popular local trail that provides a mix of woodland and farmland walks, perfect for a leisurely hike and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Saint Andrews by plane.

Dundee Airport

Located about 20 miles from Saint Andrews, Dundee Airport offers flights to various domestic destinations and is the closest airport to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint Andrews is a compact town that is very walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and the scenic coastal paths provide a pleasant environment for leisurely strolls. Public transport is available, but many visitors prefer to walk to fully appreciate the town's charm.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With the presence of the University of St Andrews, a significant portion of the population consists of students from various backgrounds, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Retirees

Saint Andrews is also home to many retirees who appreciate the town's peaceful environment, history, and community spirit.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

Saint Andrews is synonymous with golf, known worldwide for its prestigious courses and history.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint Andrews is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. The town can become congested during peak tourist season, particularly near major attractions. Public transportation options include buses that connect to surrounding areas, but many visitors find walking or cycling to be the most enjoyable ways to explore.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Andrews.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants in Saint Andrews offer vegetarian options, and several cater specifically to vegan diets.

Gluten-Free

There are gluten-free options available in various eateries, but it’s wise to check with the staff regarding preparation methods.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Saint Andrews is accessible, with local services provided by the NHS. There are several pharmacies and a community hospital for minor medical needs. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

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