9 Amazing things to do in St Andrews

A must-see for any visitor, explore the remains of St Andrews Cathedral, which was once the largest church in Scotland. The cathedral’s museum houses an outstanding collection of medieval sculptures and relics which were found on the site. Make sure to climb St Rule’s Tower, which dates from the 12th century, to see amazing views across St Andrews and Fife.

As the Home of Golf where the game was invented, playing golf in St Andrews is one of the best experiences you can have, and you shouldn’t visit the town without taking in a round. Choose from 10 unique courses to hone your skills on, including some of the finest links courses in the world. 

If you don't have time to play a round, you can also book a guided tour of the famous Old Course.

Guided walks of the Old Course

With a history spanning 450 years, St Andrews Castle has been a bishop’s palace, a fortress and a state prison. The main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews in medieval Scotland, you can learn all about the castle’s rich past when you explore today. Discover the 16th century underground mine and the ‘bottle dungeon’, a prison cut out of solid rock.

A unique way to learn about the town’s extraordinary history, St Andrews Ghost Tours will also introduce you to many haunted locations and residents from years gone by. The tours take in locations including the Cathedral and St Andrews University and are based on extensive research. And you’ll find no theatrics on these tours – the only ‘jumper ooters’ are the real ghosts!

Take a journey through history on the Fife Pilgrim Way, which winds through the ancient Kingdom of Fife. This long-distance walking route ends in St Andrews, which was once the focal point of the church in medieval Scotland. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who would flock here between the 11th to 16th centuries.

Explore the main areas of St Andrews from the Old Course to the cathedral by foot with the St Andrews Food Tour, which visits five locations where you’ll taste locally sourced food and drink. Your guide will also explain more about the history of the area and point out other places to visit after the tour is over.

The town’s stunning West Sands are accessible to all with the St Andrews West Beach Wheelchairs, who provide free rental of specially adapted beach friendly wheelchairs. With six available in a variety of sizes, they can be booked in advance by phone or online, with slots ranging from 1 hour to half a day.

Be transported into an underwater world of adventure and come face to face with fascinating creatures at St Andrews Aquarium. See animals including British sharks, piranhas, seals and even meerkats! You can also get up close and personal with animals at various interactive demonstrations held every day.

Located in the historic Scores area in St Andrews, the Wardlaw Museum houses the treasures and objects of the University of St Andrews. The university dates back to 1413, so there are six centuries' worth of artefacts and history to explore. As well as art, history, science and natural history collections, there are also temporary exhibitions to enjoy and a stunning view out over the sea.