Wheelchair Accessibility in St Andrews

Wheelchair Accessibility in St Andrews

Discover a historic town committed to inclusive tourism

St Andrews, a picturesque town on Scotland’s east coast, is world-famous for its university, historic landmarks, and as the “Home of Golf.” Despite its medieval layout and cobbled streets, St Andrews has made significant strides in improving wheelchair accessibility. Whether you’re here to explore ancient ruins, enjoy world-class golf, or relax in charming cafés, there are many wheelchair-friendly experiences waiting for you.

Getting Around St Andrews in a Wheelchair

Town Centre Navigation

St Andrews town centre is compact and largely walkable. Although many streets are cobbled, there are accessible paths and levelled pavements, particularly on:

  • Market Street, South Street, and North Street: key commercial areas with dropped kerbs, tactile paving, and flat sections.
  • The Scores: a scenic, mostly level route along the coastline.

Public Transport

  • Stagecoach East Scotland Buses operate low-floor, wheelchair-accessible buses to and from St Andrews, including direct routes from Dundee, Cupar, and Leuchars train station.
  • Leuchars Train Station (5 miles from town): Fully accessible, with staff assistance and ramp access available.
  • Accessible Taxi Providers:
    • Joe Le Taxi (079 555 66 777) – wheelchair vehicles on request and assistance for passengers with mobility issues
    • G&A Taxis (01334 476787) – wheelchair vehicles on request.
    • Moffat & Williamson – offer local transfers in adapted vehicles.
    • Club Cars St Andrews (01334 477788) – provide assistance for passengers with mobility issues.

Parking

There are designated Blue Badge parking bays throughout the town, including:

  • On South Street near Holy Trinity Church
  • Beside the Cathedral car park
  • Along the Scores and at the West Sands car park
  • At St Andrews Leisure Centre and Morrisons supermarket

Accessible Attractions in St Andrews

1. St Andrews Cathedral

  • Wheelchair access to the visitor centre, museum, and open grounds.
  • Level pathways with benches for resting.
  • Accessible toilets available on site.

2. St Andrews Castle

  • The grounds have uneven terrain, but the visitor centre is accessible.
  • Offers wheelchair users a multimedia guide and panoramic views from the entrance area.

3. The British Golf Museum

  • Fully wheelchair accessible with wide corridors and a lift.
  • Accessible toilets and a café with sea views.
  • Free entry for carers.

4. West Sands Beach

  • Beach wheelchairs available via the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust (01334 652123).
  • Accessible promenade and designated parking bays.
  • Access ramps and boardwalk-style areas for easier beach navigation.

5. St Andrews Botanic Garden

  • Wide, surfaced paths suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
  • Mobility scooter hire available on request.
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilets on site.

6. University of St Andrews Museums

  • Wardlaw Museum (on The Scores): Modern and accessible, with step-free access, lifts, and audio guides.
  • Bell Pettigrew Museum (in the Zoology Building): Older building, but staff offer assistance.

7. Byre Theatre

  • Fully wheelchair accessible with lift access to all levels, disabled parking, and accessible toilets.
  • Infrared hearing systems and assistance for guide dogs.

8. East Sands Leisure Centre

  • Pool hoists, accessible changing rooms, and disabled parking.
  • Offers inclusive swim sessions.

Wheelchair-Friendly Cafés and Restaurants in St Andrews

Here are wheelchair-accessible eateries that combine great food with inclusive design:

Casual Cafés

  • Zest Café (South Street): Flat entrance, accessible toilet, and friendly staff.
  • Northpoint Café (North Street): Wheelchair accessible and spacious layout.
  • Starbucks (Market Street): Step-free entrance, good space between tables, and accessible toilet.
  • Pret A Manger (Market Street): Wheelchair-friendly with level entrance and space to manoeuvre.
  • The Cottage Kitchen: Small, independent café with step-free access and helpful service.

Restaurants & Gastropubs

  • The Adamson: Chic restaurant with step-free access and a disabled toilet.
  • The Seafood Ristorante: Stunning coastal views, wheelchair ramp, and accessible facilities.
  • Forgans (Market Street): Spacious interior, ramp access, and inclusive toilets.
  • The Saint Bar & Kitchen (North Street): Stylish and wheelchair accessible.
  • Tailend Restaurant and Fish Bar: Known for fresh local seafood with accessible seating and entry.

Accessible Pubs

  • The Criterion Bar: Historic but accessible, flat entrance and open seating.
  • Rascals Bar (St Mary’s Place): Wheelchair accessible and spacious.
  • The Keys Bar: Small but has step-free access, better during off-peak hours.

Wheelchair Accessible Hotels and Accommodation

Whether you prefer luxury or budget, St Andrews offers several options:

Luxury & Mid-Range

  • Fairmont St Andrews: Fully accessible resort with roll-in showers, lifts, hoists available on request, and adapted golf buggies.
  • Hotel du Vin: Elegant hotel with accessible ground-floor rooms and level access throughout.
  • The Scores Hotel: Recently refurbished, offering some accessible rooms and sea views.
  • Rusacks St Andrews: Offers wheelchair-friendly rooms with excellent views of the Old Course.

Budget-Friendly

  • Premier Inn St Andrews: Modern and accessible, with step-free access, lifts, and wet-room style bathrooms.
  • Agnes Blackadder Hall (summer university accommodation): Large rooms, level entry, and accessible bathrooms.

Accessible Shopping in St Andrews

Many shops in St Andrews have level entrances or ramps and space for wheelchairs:

  • Waterstones Bookshop (Market Street): Wheelchair accessible with lift to upper floor.
  • Superdrug and Boots: Step-free access and accessible pharmacy counters.
  • Morrisons Supermarket: Fully accessible with disabled parking and accessible toilets.
  • St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Shop (on the outskirts): Step-free access and accessible tastings.
  • Bonkers Gift Shop: Narrow inside but has a flat entrance and friendly staff willing to assist.

Accessible Public Toilets

Public toilets with accessible facilities are located at:

  • Bruce Embankment Car Park (beside the Old Course and beach)
  • St Mary’s Place (beside the bus station)
  • East Sands Leisure Centre
  • St Andrews Cathedral

There is currently no Changing Places toilet in central St Andrews, but the nearest is at:

  • Fife House, Glenrothes (approx. 40 minutes away)

Plans are underway to improve this in the coming years.

Local Support and Resources

AccessAble

Use AccessAble.co.uk to find detailed access guides for shops, restaurants, and attractions in St Andrews.

Fife Centre for Equalities

Offers support, advocacy, and information about accessibility in Fife.
Website: centreforequalities.org.uk

Tourist Information Centre

Located at the top of Market Street in the town centre. Staff can provide accessibility maps and personal assistance.

Tips for Wheelchair Users Visiting St Andrews

  • Book ahead: Especially during peak times, accessible taxis, hotels, and beach chairs should be booked in advance.
  • Mind the slopes: Some parts of the town are hilly—motorised chairs or a companion may help.
  • Plan bathroom stops: While accessible toilets are available, they may be spaced out across town.
  • Check with venues: Many older buildings have been modified but still require a ramp or assistance—staff are generally happy to help.

Final Thoughts

St Andrews is a beautiful and historic town that is increasingly inclusive and welcoming to visitors of all abilities. Whether you’re enjoying a round of golf, exploring ancient ruins, or sipping coffee by the sea, you’ll find that St Andrews offers a rewarding and accessible experience.