St Andrews

For a small town, St Andrews has made a big name for itself: firstly as a religious centre and place of pilgrimage, then as Scotland's oldest (and Britain's third-oldest) university town. But it is its status as the home of golf that has propelled it to even greater fame, and today's pilgrims mostly arrive with a set of clubs in hand. Nevertheless, it's a lovely place to visit even if you've no interest in the game, with impressive medieval ruins, stately university buildings, idyllic white sands and excellent guesthouses and restaurants.

The Old Course, the world's most famous golf links, has a striking seaside location at the western end of town – it's a thrilling experience to stroll the hallowed turf. Nearby is magnificent West Sands beach, made famous by the film Chariots of Fire.

Explore St Andrews

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout St Andrews.

  • Ruins

    St Andrews Cathedral

    All that's left of one of Britain's most magnificent medieval buildings are ruined fragments of wall and arch, and a single towering gable, but you can…

  • Castle

    St Andrews Castle

    The castle is mainly in ruins, but the site itself is evocative and has dramatic coastline views. It was founded around 1200 as a fortified home for the…

  • Museum

    British Golf Museum

    This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of the game and the role of St Andrews in it. The huge collection ranges from…

  • Museum

    Museum of the University of St Andrews

    MUSA celebrates the history of Scotland's oldest university, and showcases treasures such as medieval silver maces, rare books and manuscripts, and 16th…

  • Historic Building

    Royal & Ancient Clubhouse

    Dating from 1854, the clubhouse of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club, the governing authority of the game of golf, stands beside the first tee of the Old…

  • Museum

    St Andrews Museum

    St Andrews Museum has interesting displays that chart the history of the town from its founding by St Regulus to its growth as an ecclesiastical, academic…

  • Aquarium

    St Andrews Aquarium

    As well as a seal sanctuary, rays and sharks from Scottish waters, and exotic tropical favourites, St Andrews Aquarium has penguins, alligators and a cute…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in St Andrews.

  • Activities