Summary
- 1.) There’s no direct train into St Andrews
- 2.) It’s a university town
- 3.) It has lots of history in teaching
- 4.) Golf is a huge thing in St Andrews
- 5.) You’ll struggle to find big clubs
- 6.) Don’t visit during graduation ceremonies
- 7.) It’s an easy day trip from Edinburgh
- 8.) Visit the castle for free
- 9.) There’s a secret tunnel to find
- 10.) You can explore by foot
St Andrews is a picturesque Scottish town located on the coast of Fife. It is renowned for its prestigious University, notable alumni including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, its world-class golf courses, and breathtaking coastline.
Furthermore, the architecture in St Andrews offers much for visitors to admire.
Nonetheless, St Andrews is recognized as one of those remarkable locations in Scotland where each visit seems to carry a specific purpose.
Typically, people visit to participate in graduation ceremonies, connect with friends residing in the area, or most commonly, to engage in golfing, rather than simply wandering through Scotland without a defined plan.
Having resided in St Andrews for several years, I have compiled essential information that will enhance your visit to this captivating town.
1.) There’s no direct train into St Andrews
Indeed, there is no direct train to St Andrews. You will need to reach Leuchars station and from there, either take a bus or taxi to the town.
2.) It’s a university town
St Andrews is prominently characterized by its University.
The population of the town nearly doubles when students return, showing a distinct contrast between visits during and outside the academic term.
3.) It has lots of history in teaching
With regard to the University, it is the third oldest in the English-speaking world and the oldest in Scotland.
The institution consistently ranks among the top universities in the United Kingdom, following only Oxford and Cambridge.
4.) Golf is a huge thing in St Andrews
Indeed, golf holds significant importance here!
This location is regarded as the birthplace of golf and hosts one of the oldest golf championships in the world, attracting numerous celebrities to the town.
5.) You’ll struggle to find big clubs
St Andrews lacks traditional nightclubs, which could leave visitors seeking alternatives without success.
The closest option is the student union, though social gatherings at residences tend to be more prevalent. While it may not have an active nightlife, it compensates with its vibrant bars and cafes.
6.) Don’t visit during graduation ceremonies
It is advisable to avoid visiting during the graduation ceremonies held in June and November (refer to the University website for specific dates).
During the week preceding and following these events, securing rental accommodations may prove quite challenging, particularly at reasonable prices.
7.) It’s an easy day trip from Edinburgh
St Andrews is located just over an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, allowing for easy integration into itineraries. The train journey also takes approximately an hour, while the bus may take about two hours.
8.) Visit the castle for free
By planning your visit carefully, you may coincide your trip with days when monuments across Scotland are open to the public at no cost (more details can be found on the official Scottish Civic Trust website).
9.) There’s a secret tunnel to find
At St Andrews Castle, there exists a tunnel that once provided a connection to the town (originally serving as an escape route for the castle’s occupants).
Though the tunnel no longer exists in the town today, traversing through it remains worthwhile. (If you suffer from claustrophobia, consider missing this attraction).
10.) You can explore by foot
It is indeed possible to navigate St Andrews on foot, thus consider leaving the car behind and investing in suitable walking shoes.
The most distant parts of the town can be reached within a 30-minute walk, even for individuals who walk at a leisurely pace.
