St Andrews sits on the east coast of Fife, a compact town that punches well above its size. It is the home of golf, a university older than most countries’ oldest institutions, and a seaside town with a long sweep of sand — three very different reasons to visit rolled into one walkable centre.
The town grew up around its cathedral, once the largest in Scotland and now a dramatic ruin above the harbour. Royal watchers know St Andrews as the university where Prince William and Kate Middleton met, and you can still have lunch in the cafe where they are said to have dined.
The Home of Golf
The Old Course is the most famous golf course in the world, and the R&A that governs the sport is based here. You do not need to play to enjoy it: the course runs right up to the town, and anyone can walk across the Swilcan Bridge on a Sunday, when the Old Course closes to golf. The British Golf Museum sits beside the 18th green.
Cathedral, Castle & Old Town
St Andrews Cathedral and its graveyard are free to wander, with St Rule’s Tower giving rooftop views for a small fee. The ruined castle on the cliffs has a bottle dungeon and siege tunnels. The three main streets — North Street, Market Street and South Street — are lined with student pubs, cafes and independent shops.
Beaches & the Fife Coast
West Sands, the long beach made famous by the opening of Chariots of Fire, is a bracing walk in any season. St Andrews also sits on the Fife Coastal Path, which links the pretty fishing villages of the East Neuk — Crail, Anstruther and Pittenweem — a short drive south.
Practical Tips
- St Andrews is about 90 minutes from Edinburgh by car, or by bus and train via Leuchars station
- The Old Course closes to golf on Sundays, when you can walk the fairways
- Cathedral grounds are free; St Rule’s Tower and the castle charge admission
- If you would rather not drive, several St Andrews day tours run from Edinburgh
- See our guide to things to do in Fife for more of the coast
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to play golf to visit St Andrews?
Not at all. You can walk the Old Course on Sundays when it closes to play, visit the golf museum, and spend the rest of your time on the cathedral, castle, beaches and student streets.
How far is St Andrews from Edinburgh?
About 90 minutes by car. By public transport, take a train to Leuchars and a short bus into town, or a direct bus from Edinburgh.
