A Day In St Andrews
Written by Graeme Johncock
You might know of St Andrews as “The Home of Golf”, but there’s a lot more here than an old ball and stick game. I grew up just a few miles away and love getting the chance to show people the other side of this wee Fife town. For centuries, it was Scotland’s main ecclesiastical centre, a major European pilgrimage site and you can still find history and beauty round every corner!
St Andrews Cathedral
St Andrews wouldn’t be what it is today if it wasn’t for the enormous St Andrews Cathedral. Even as a romantic ruin, it’s an incredible sight to behold with soaring towers still poking into the sky. Legend says that St Rule carried the bones of St Andrew here to keep...
Climb St Rule’s Tower
You can’t miss the odd-looking square tower inside the cathedral grounds. St Rule’s Tower happens to be even older than the cathedral and you can climb all 33 metres of it for spectacular views across the town! Be wary of anybody dressed in medieval robes though, it could well be...
St Andrews Castle
Part fortress, part bishop’s palace, the next logical place to visit is St Andrews Castle. This was where the main churchman of the cathedral spent most of their time, with a spectacular seaside view. Sadly, their holy status didn’t spare the castle from a history of violence. The most dramatic...
Lunch At Forgans
Right in the centre of town, Forgans is a great spot for lunch, using lots of local ingredients. This was once a golf club factory, which is fitting for the town’s history, and there’s a great atmosphere inside!
Fisher & Donaldson’s
Make sure to leave room after your lunch for a local delicacy. Head over to Fisher & Donaldson’s, founded in 1919, and pick up a fudge doughnut. There’s no doubt in my mind that these are the best in Scotland!
University Quad
Not only was St Andrews the site of Scotland’s largest cathedral, this is also home to the oldest university! Founded in the early 1400s, it’s a huge part of the town’s identity and the campus is a beautiful spot to wander. The Quad is always a highlight and free to...
St Salvator’s Chapel
Don’t miss St Salvator’s Chapel and another set of initials set into the cobblestones outside. PH stands for Patrick Hamilton, another early preacher who was sentenced to death in St Andrews. Unfortunately for Patrick, the arrangements were badly rushed by officials. The freshly collected wood smouldered slowly, choking the preacher...
Old Course & Swilcan Bridge
While not everything in St Andrews is to do with golf, no trip is complete without taking a look at the famous Old Course. Known as the oldest still used golf course in the world, it’s a true pilgrimage site for all those who enjoy the sport. If you wait...
West Sands Beach
Finish your day at one of the best sandy beaches in Scotland with a walk on the West Sands. There are some spectacular views across to the town, with a series of spires peaking above the roofs. Famous for its role in the film Chariots of Fire, you’ll find locals...
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