Known worldwide as the “Home of Golf,” St. Andrews offers far more than its legendary fairways and the Royal and Ancient Club. Nestled in the historic Fife region of Scotland, this iconic town provides a wealth of experiences that extend well beyond the course, making it the perfect destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Whether you’re here to tee off on one of the Old Course’s hallowed holes or explore the rich culture and scenic beauty of Scotland, St. Andrews has something to captivate every traveler. From bustling pubs to fascinating museums, charming shops, and unforgettable sightseeing tours, this guide covers the top 15 activities that will leave you with memories of a lifetime. Join us as we explore the must-do experiences that make St. Andrews a bucket-list destination for all.
Top Indoor Activities
1. Visit the Museums
Located in the heart of St. Andrews, the St. Andrews Museum is an enriching experience for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Housed in a charming Victorian-era mansion, the museum provides a fascinating journey through the town’s rich past, detailing everything from its medieval roots to its development as a renowned university town and the “Home of Golf.” Alongside exhibits that showcase local history, visitors can explore displays of art, culture, and the heritage that has shaped the St. Andrews we know today. The museum offers a comprehensive view of Fife’s past, making it a rewarding stop for those looking to deepen their understanding of the area.
A stroll through the University of St. Andrews’ museums provides a multifaceted experience, combining academia, natural history, and historical artifacts. Start at the Wardlaw Museum, which captures the university’s 600-year history and displays various artifacts that tell the story of Scotland’s oldest university. For natural history enthusiasts, the Bell Pettigrew Museum holds an array of zoological specimens that offer a glimpse into the biodiversity of the past and present. The Museum Collections Centre gives visitors a behind-the-scenes view of rare artifacts and unique collections, showcasing items not typically on display. Together, these museums offer a comprehensive and engaging view into the intellectual and cultural legacy of St Andrews.
The Royal & Ancient World Golf Museum is another great exhibition worth visiting in town. Visitors can explore the rich history of golf from its beginning up until its modern day and wander through one of the largest collection of golf memorabilia in the world.
2. Explore Scotland’s Secret Bunker in Crail
A short drive from St. Andrews leads to one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets: the underground Cold War bunker hidden beneath an unsuspecting farmhouse in Crail.
Built during the Cold War, this fascinating bunker spans 24,000 square feet and was designed to house government officials in the event of a nuclear attack. As visitors descend underground, they’ll encounter notable rooms like the Command Centre and Operations Room, which vividly illustrate the intensity of Cold War preparations. Scotland’s Secret Bunker offers an immersive, eerie glimpse into a tense period of history, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
3. Taste Scotland at Eden Mill and Kingsbarns Distilleries
A visit to Scotland would only be complete with exploring its legendary whisky and gin culture, and the Eden Mill and Kingsbarns distilleries offer just that. Located in St. Andrews, Eden Mill blends tradition with innovation, producing handcrafted whiskies and gins that have garnered international acclaim.
A short drive away, Kingsbarns Distillery takes visitors deeper into the world of Scottish whisky, with a history-steeped tour and tastings of local vintages that reflect the region’s unique terroir. Kingsbarns is also home to Darnley’s Gin Distillery, where gin lovers can savor a range of botanical-infused creations. Both distilleries offer a genuine taste of Scotland’s spirit-making tradition, perfect for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
4. The Byre Theatre
An institution of cultural vibrancy and artistic diversity, the Byre Theatre has been an integral part of St. Andrews for nearly 80 years. Now operated by the University of St. Andrews, the Byre offers a welcoming space with its award-winning 216-seat auditorium, 80-seat studio theatre, and multiple social areas.
This iconic venue serves as a hub for professional performances in theatre, dance, opera, and music, drawing in both local residents and visitors. The theatre is renowned for its annual pantomime produced in collaboration with Bard in the Botanics, which features local youth alongside professional actors and choreographers.
Committed to fostering community engagement, the Byre Theatre also hosts local and student performance groups and develops projects that promote well-being, learning, and professional development. It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the lively arts scene of St. Andrews.
5. Have a Pint
St. Andrews boasts lively historic pubs worth a visit at anytime of anyday and the town would not be the same without these iconic hangouts. The Dunvegan Golfers Corner , the Road Hole Bar and the Jigger Inn at the Old Course Hotel, Golf & Spa are among the best 19th hole pubs in the world and these should be on everyone’s wish list when visiting St Andrews.
6. Relax at the Kohler Waters Spa
A spa day anyone? YES, please!!! The only Kohler Waters Spa outside the US can be found at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St. Andrews. This oasis in the city creates rejuvenating experiences inspired by the natural restorative properties of earth’s mineral-rich waters and offers a range of treatments and all-day immersion with therapeutic water treatments, facials and full-body massages.
With 13 treatment rooms, a 65ft indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool for therapeutic bathing, steam room for deep muscular relaxation and detoxification, experience showers, refreshing Ice fountain, cold plunge pool and sauna, this is the place to be for non-golfers to escape and relax for a day. Tempting…right?
7. Savor some Delicious Scottish Food at Local Farms
The town has become a heaven for foodies in recent years. Anyone craving for amazing locally grown produce should visit the Balgove Larder Farm Shop, Butchery and Flower Gardens located just outside of st Andrews.
Another wonderful experience for cheese lovers visiting the Kingdom of Fife is a stop at the award-winning St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Company Coffee Shop located at the Falside Farm, just a few miles away from St. Andrews. They offer a cheesemaking talk with a look at ‘the action’ from their Viewing Gallery, followed by a cheese platter, with homemade cheese scones and coffee. Advanced reservations are required.
Lastly, on the sweet side, the St. Andrews Bakery offers delicious slow baked biscuits, fudge and golf ball snacks – a must-try when visiting in St. Andrews!
8. The Hickory Golf Workshop Experience
Imagine a place where you can learn about the history of the game and how golf clubs were first made. Witness true craftsmen still creating hickory golf clubs today and participate in the restoration of genuine hickory era clubs by learning how to grip and whip these very special clubs. The 2-hour hickory golf workshop experience includes an expert-led tutorial taking visitors through the creation and restoration of hickory golf clubs. Culminating in a step-by-step instruction on how to ‘grip and whip’ a hickory club. Giving visitors the unique opportunity to personalise a club with their own choice of colours and styles.
Guests can even engrave the shaft of a hickory club with a name, date or message while they wait. A truly unique golf experience.
Outdoor Attractions
1. Himalayas Putting Course
Perfect for golfers and non-golfers alike, the Himalayas Putting Course offers a fun and accessible way to experience golf in St. Andrews. Located near the iconic Old Course, this 18-hole putting course is run by the St. Andrews Ladies’ Putting Club and is known for its undulating greens, which are a miniature version of a full course’s challenge. Beginners, families, and seasoned golfers can all enjoy this activity, making it an ideal outing that combines relaxation with a touch of friendly competition in a historic setting.
2. Take a History Walking Tour of the Old Course
For anyone visiting St Andrews, a history walking tour of the Old Course is a must. This guided experience brings the world’s oldest golf course to life, offering fascinating insights into its evolution, from its medieval origins to its status as a modern golf mecca. Tours cover iconic spots like the Swilcan Bridge and the Road Hole, sharing stories about legendary moments and famous players who’ve walked the greens. A walking tour is the perfect way to connect with the history and spirit of St. Andrews, whether you’re an avid golfer or simply interested in the heritage of this storied landscape. Aside from this particular tour of The Old Course, you can either join a romantic tour or a ghost city tour.
3. Visit the St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral Ruins
A trip to the ruins of St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral offers an evocative glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. Perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, St. Andrews Castle served as a powerful fortress, and its preserved underground mine and dungeon provide a haunting reminder of its turbulent history. The nearby Cathedral, once Scotland’s largest, now stands as an awe-inspiring ruin, inviting visitors to wander through its ancient stone arches and tombs. Here, golf purists and traditionalists can pay tribute to Old Tom Morris at his memorial located on the eastern wall of the churchyard. This historical duo is perfect for history lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking to connect with the heritage of St. Andrews.
4. Hike the Fife Coastal Path
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Fife Coastal Path offers an unforgettable hiking experience along Scotland’s picturesque coastline. Stretching over 117 miles, this scenic trail winds through fishing villages, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs, with the stretch around St. Andrews offering some of the most stunning views. Whether you’re up for a short stroll or a longer trek, the path provides a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area, with plenty of opportunities to spot seabirds, seals, and panoramic sea views along the way.
5. Explore One of the Beautiful Beaches Surrounding the Town
St. Andrews is blessed with several pristine beaches, making it easy to enjoy the fresh sea air and stunning scenery. West Sands Beach, known for its appearance in the film Chariots of Fire, is perfect for long walks, beach sports, or a seaside picnic. East Sands Beach, with its gentle waves and views of St. Andrews Harbour, is a favorite for families and paddleboarders. With soft sand and sweeping coastal views, the beaches offer a peaceful escape and an ideal spot to relax, whether you’re winding down after a round of golf or simply soaking in the scenic beauty of St. Andrews.
6. Take a foodie stroll at the Farmers’ Market
Visitors coming on the first Saturday of each month from 10:00am til 2:00pm (except in January) are in for a special treat at the Farmers Market on South Street. This experience is a great way to immerse into the local culture, meet friendly producers and support independent business owners while trying out some of the best specialties. This fun market is certainly one of the most enjoyable tasty walks you could dream of.
7. Cycle around St. Andrews
St. Andrews is one of the most cycle friendly town in Scotland and the perfect little coastal gem to explore on a bicycle. Visitors can rent or borrow bikes from some of the local hotels and cycle on the scenic roads, stop at viewpoints, and enjoy the fresh maritime breathe.
Key Takeaways
St. Andrews offers a unique blend of experiences that extend well beyond the fairways, making it a remarkable destination for both golfers and non-golfers. Known as the “Home of Golf,” this charming town in Fife is steeped in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Whether exploring local museums, savoring Scotland’s renowned whisky and gin, enjoying live arts at the Byre Theatre, or uncovering the secrets of the Cold War, St. Andrews has something for everyone. The outdoor attractions are equally captivating, from historic sites and scenic hikes to iconic golf locations that bring the town’s legacy to life. Together, these activities showcase the rich character of St. Andrews, leaving travelers with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this storied destination.
Our team combine the greatest rounds of golf with curated travel experiences that transcend the ordinary, for golfers and their accompanying non-golfers; couples, friends & family. Our personalized hand-crafted golf itineraries include exceptional experiences for everyone in your group. Please make sure to contact us in advance of your trip, we’d love to help you plan the perfect golf vacation across the pond.
Let’s CHASEGOLF adventures together! 🏌️♂️⛳️🏌️♀️💚
