St Andrews
A Guide to the Historic Coastal Gem
St Andrews is one of the most iconic and beloved towns in Scotland. Famed as the “Home of Golf”, this charming coastal destination is also reknowned for its world-class university, breathtaking beaches, medieval architecture, and rich history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a golf lover, or a traveller seeking culture and coastal views, St Andrews is a must-visit Scottish treasure.
🏛️ The History of St Andrews
St Andrews has deep historical roots that stretch back over 1,000 years. Named after Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland, the town became a religious centre in the Middle Ages and played a key role during the Scottish Reformation, during which a group of Protestant reformers, led by John Knox, seized St Andrews Castle after murdering Cardinal David Beaton, a leading Catholic figure. St Andrews has been instrumental in the development of religion for both Catholics and Protestants in Scotland.
In addition, St Andrews is the place where Prince William and Princess Kate met, the home of golf and the home of the oldest university in Scotland. Nearby Ceres is the birthplace of James Wilson, a founding father of the United States.
Key Historical Highlights:
- St Andrews Cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland, now stands as a hauntingly beautiful ruin.
- St Rule’s Tower, dating back to the 12th century, offers panoramic views over the town and coast.
- St Andrews Castle, perched on a cliffside, was a bishop’s palace, fortress, and prison.
Tip: Take a guided tour or follow the heritage trail to uncover stories from St Andrews’ medieval and religious past.
⛳ St Andrews – The Home of Golf
St Andrews is known globally as The Home of Golf. It’s where the game was developed and formalised, and it’s still the most iconic golfing destination in the world.
Golf Highlights:
- The Old Course at St Andrews is the oldest golf course in the world.
- The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, founded in 1754, governs the rules of golf worldwide.
- The town regularly hosts The Open Championship, golf’s oldest major tournament.
- The Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole is a bucket-list photo spot for golf fans.
There are seven public golf courses in St Andrews, making it perfect for all levels of players.
🎓 The University of St Andrews
Scotland’s Oldest University
Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and among the top in the UK. It’s a major part of the town’s identity and atmosphere.
Fun Facts:
- The university is ranked among the top universities in the UK for academic excellence.
- It is famous for traditions like the Raisin Weekend, May Dip, and red academic gowns.
- Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales met here while studying.
St Andrews is a student town at heart, giving it a lively, international, and youthful vibe.
🌟 Famous People Linked to St Andrews
- Prince William and Catherine – Met and studied at the University of St Andrews.
- Andrew Lang – Poet, novelist, and folklorist known for the “Coloured Fairy Books”.
- Tom Morris Sr. & Jr. – Legendary figures in the early development of golf.
- James Wilson – A Founding Father of the United States, born in nearby Ceres.
- James Gregory – Scottish astronomer and scientist.
An American Connection
James Wilson was a Founding Father of the United States, a signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Born in Ceres, near St Andrews in 1742, he emigrated to America and became a prominent lawyer and legal theorist. Wilson played a key role at the Constitutional Convention, advocating for popular sovereignty and a strong national government. He later served as one of the original justices on the U.S. Supreme Court. Wilson’s legal writings and ideas helped shape the foundation of American constitutional law.
Here is more information from the University of Pennsylvania… https://www.law.upenn.edu/live/news/13935-remembering-founding-father-james-wilson-law
St Andrews Meridian Line
A pioneering Scottish astronomer and scientist may have laid the groundwork for modern timekeeping—right in St Andrews, on South Street.
In 1673, James Gregory drew a meridian line across his laboratory at the University of St Andrews, nearly two centuries before the Greenwich Meridian was officially established. This act has led some to describe St Andrews as “the place where time began.”
Although Greenwich was later adopted as the Prime Meridian in 1884 – largely due to its widespread use in navigation and mapping – Gregory’s contribution predates it by generations.
Today, a memorial has been unveiled in St Andrews to honor Gregory’s early scientific achievement.
Since the late 19th century, the Greenwich Meridian has served as the global reference point for Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), a standard necessitated by the rise of railways and international communication.
📍 Top Places to Visit in St Andrews
🕍 St Andrews Cathedral
Explore ancient ruins and climb St Rule’s Tower for breathtaking views.
🏰 St Andrews Castle
See the infamous bottle dungeon and an underground mine used during the siege.
🏖️ West Sands Beach
A 2-mile stretch of sandy beach, made famous by the film Chariots of Fire.
🌸 St Andrews Botanic Garden
Over 8,000 species of plants from around the world in peaceful surroundings.
🛍️ Market Street & South Street
Historic streets filled with local shops, boutiques, cafés, and bookshops.
🏛️ The Wardlaw Museum
A museum showcasing the University’s rich heritage, collections, and scientific achievements.
🗺️ Things to Do in St Andrews
- ⛳ Play a round of golf on world-class courses
- 🚶 Walk the Fife Coastal Path for dramatic sea views
- 🕯️ Take a ghost tour and discover spooky local legends
- 📚 Tour the University of St Andrews’ historic buildings
- 🛒 Shop for traditional Scottish goods and handmade crafts
- ☕ Relax in cosy cafés or dine in award-winning restaurants
- 📸 Capture stunning photos of medieval ruins and seaside landscapes
- 🎭 Attend events like the StAnza Poetry Festival or Lammas Fair
🏨 Where to Stay in St Andrews
There’s a wide range of accommodation in St Andrews, including:
- Luxury hotels like the Old Course Hotel & Fairmont St Andrews
- Charming guesthouses and B&Bs with warm Scottish hospitality
- Self-catering apartments ideal for longer stays
- Budget-friendly hostels and student accommodation (seasonal)
🚗 How to Get to St Andrews
- By Train: Travel to Leuchars Station, then a 10-minute taxi or bus to St Andrews.
- By Car: About 1.5 hours from Edinburgh, 30 minutes from Dundee.
- By Air: Nearest airports are Edinburgh Airport and Dundee Airport.
- By Bus: Direct buses from Edinburgh and other major Scottish cities.
❤️ Why You Should Visit St Andrews, Scotland
St Andrews is more than a tourist destination — it’s an experience. It offers:
- A deep sense of history and tradition
- World-renowned golfing heritage
- One of the most beautiful and prestigious universities in the world
- Gorgeous coastal scenery and peaceful beaches
- Vibrant culture, local events, and a welcoming community
Whether you’re planning a golf holiday, a university tour, or a Scottish road trip, St Andrews should be at the top of your itinerary.
📌 Plan Your Visit to St Andrews Today
Add St Andrews to your Scotland travel itinerary and discover why this small town continues to capture hearts and imaginations around the world.