Golf Attractions
Golf and St Andrews are inseparable. The Old Course is the most famous golf course in the world, where the sport has been played for over 600 years. Standing on the Swilcan Bridge or watching players tee off on the 1st hole is a bucket-list experience.
If you’re keen to play, there are a few ways to secure a round: the daily ballot, single-golfer walk-on spots, or through golf trip packages. Beyond the Old Course, the town has six more courses, including the New Course, Jubilee, and the dramatic cliff-top Castle Course.
Don’t miss the World Golf Museum. You’ll find rare clubs, trophies, and historic photos that show how the game grew, from shepherds on the dunes to today’s global sport. For practice, the St Andrews Links Academy offers lessons, a driving range, and a shop for gear.
Golf fans visiting in summer may also catch the St Andrews Links Trophy or other tournaments that bring the sport’s future stars to town.
Visit Historic Sites & Local Landmarks
St Andrews wears its history proudly. The ruins of the Cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland, remain awe-inspiring. Climb St Rule’s Tower and you’ll see the entire town, its beaches, and the Fife coastline in one sweep.
Nearby, St Andrews Castle balances drama and tragedy. Its cliff-top walls overlook the sea. Underground you can explore the siege mine and the notorious bottle dungeon. Where prisoners were once lowered and left.
The University of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest, has shaped the town since 1413. It’s steeped in traditions, from the scarlet gowns students wear to Raisin Weekend pranks. Visitors often enjoy walking through the quads, imagining the generations who studied here. Including Prince William and Kate Middleton.
The St Andrews Museum, in Kinburn Park, adds more local context. Its exhibitions trace the town’s story from medieval pilgrims to modern tourism.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families will find plenty of variety in St Andrews.
The Aquarium, perched above the beach, houses penguins, seals, reptiles, and colourful fish. Interactive talks keep children engaged, and the views back across West Sands are spectacular.
A short drive away, Craigtoun Country Park offers boating ponds, miniature trains, crazy golf, and playgrounds — a full day out for kids. In summer, it’s a lively spot with rides and outdoor activities.
When the weather turns, head indoors. The Byre Theatre often has family shows and workshops, and local soft play centres (such as in Cupar, 15 minutes away) give younger children a chance to burn off energy.
Of course, the beaches are always a hit. West Sands is ideal for kite flying and long walks, while East Sands has rock pools for exploring. Both are safe for paddling and perfect for picnics.
Walks, Beaches & Coastal Trails
Few towns combine history and coastline as beautifully as St Andrews.
West Sands Beach stretches for two miles and was made famous in Chariots of Fire. At low tide you can walk along the wide sands, while the dunes behind shelter birdlife and wildflowers. At sunset, the view back towards the town and Cathedral ruins is unforgettable.
East Sands Beach lies on the opposite side of the harbour. More compact and sheltered, it’s popular with swimmers and paddleboarders. The Fife Coastal Path begins here, winding south past cliffs, coves, and the old salt pans of Kinkell Braes.
North of town, the path runs towards Guardbridge and on to Tentsmuir Forest. Here, pine trees meet shifting dunes, seals bask on sandbanks, and rare birds patrol the estuary.
Even within the town centre, the Lade Braes Walk provides a quiet, leafy route following a former mill stream. Locals use it daily for jogging, dog-walking, and a break from the bustle of Market Street.
For shorter scenic loops, try the walk from the Harbour along the Pier (a favourite student tradition) or climb the Scores for sea views.
Local Hidden Gems & Unusual Things to Do
Beyond the headline attractions, St Andrews hides quieter treasures.
The Botanic Garden is a calm escape with 18 acres of plants, glasshouses, and themed gardens. It’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Art lovers can stop at Fraser Gallery or St Andrews Museum’s art space, which often host exhibitions from local and national artists. The Byre Theatre also stages everything from contemporary plays to local music.
Foodies may enjoy hunting out independent coffee shops tucked down lanes, or sampling the town’s excellent gelato (Luvians and Jannettas are favourites).
If you want something truly unusual, head to the Secret Bunker outside town. Hidden under a farmhouse, it was a Cold War command centre designed to keep Scotland’s leaders safe in case of nuclear war. Today it’s a museum, complete with radar rooms and dormitories frozen in time.
Food & Drink in St Andrews
St Andrews has a dining scene to match its popularity.
For casual bites, Market Street and South Street are dotted with cafés, bakeries, and pubs. Seafood is a highlight — fresh lobster and langoustines appear on menus across town.
Golfers often head to the Jigger Inn, a pub with memorabilia lining the walls and a view of the Old Course. The Seafood Ristorante, set over the water, serves up modern dishes with panoramic views.
Families will find plenty of pizza and burger options, while foodies can try fine dining at Haar or Playfair’s. Don’t leave without trying local ice cream from Jannettas Gelateria, serving scoops since 1908.
Day Trips from St Andrews
If you’re staying for more than a couple of days, St Andrews makes a great base for exploring Fife and beyond.
- Crail – A picture-perfect fishing village with cobbled streets and a tiny harbour.
- Anstruther – Famous for its award-winning fish and chip shop and boat trips to the Isle of May for puffin spotting.
- Elie – A beach town with water sports, a chain walk across the rocks, and excellent coastal views.
- Dundee – Just 30 minutes away, with the striking V&A Dundee Museum and Discovery Point, home to Captain Scott’s polar ship.
- Falkland Palace – A Renaissance royal palace with gardens and history tied to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Each of these makes a perfect half-day excursion and shows a different side of Fife.
FAQs About Visiting St Andrews
What are the top things to do in St Andrews?
The Old Course, the Cathedral and Castle, West Sands Beach, and the University are the essentials. Add in the Aquarium or Botanic Garden for variety, and don’t miss a stroll along the Fife Coastal Path.
Are there free attractions in St Andrews?
Yes. Many of the best experiences are free — the beaches, Cathedral grounds, Lade Braes Walk, and simply exploring the historic streets. Window-shopping on Market Street or watching the sun set from the pier costs nothing.
What’s good to do in St Andrews with kids?
West Sands is perfect for running and kite flying, while East Sands has rock pools. The Aquarium adds animals into the mix, and Craigtoun Country Park is an affordable family day out. In poor weather, head to the Byre Theatre or St Andrews Museum for indoor activities.
