St. Andrews & The Old Course Private Day Tour with Scottish Local

Explore Scotland’s Iconic Landmarks in One Day

The St. Andrews & The Old Course Private Day Tour offers an enriching way to experience some of Scotland’s most celebrated sights in just one day. Priced at $699.04 per person, this 8-hour journey departs from Edinburgh and includes door-to-door transportation in a luxury Mercedes-Benz. This tour suits those with limited time in Scotland who want to cover top attractions comfortably and privately, with the added bonus of personalized insights from a Scottish local.

This private excursion combines natural beauty, historic sites, and world-famous golf landmarks, making it ideal for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious visitors alike. The tour’s flexibility allows for stops at various highlights, with the opportunity to add guided walks or enjoy local Scottish fare. While entry to attractions is not included, the itinerary ensures you see some of the most visually stunning and culturally significant locations around St. Andrews.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with door-to-door service from Edinburgh
• Includes transport in a luxury Mercedes-Benz for maximum comfort
• Highlights include the Old Course at St. Andrews, the Forth Bridges, and St. Andrews Castle
• Option to join guided walks of the Old Course for golf fans
• Visit historic sites and distilleries like Kingsbarns Distillery and St. Andrews Cathedral
• Flexible stops such as the Jigger Inn, university, and scenic viewpoints

Convenient Luxury Transportation from Edinburgh

This tour starts with pickup from a location of your choice in Edinburgh, making your day smooth from the outset. The use of an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz ensures a comfortable ride across the scenic landscape of Fife and beyond. Wi-Fi access and bottled water are provided throughout the 8-hour experience, adding to the ease of the journey.

The private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for a more tailored experience. The door-to-door service is a significant benefit, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise port or hotel, minimizing logistical worries and maximizing sightseeing time.

First Stop: The Forth Bridges Viewpoint

The tour begins with a 15-minute stop at the Forth Bridges viewpoint, where the UNESCO World Heritage Site stands majestically over the Firth of Forth. The Forth Bridge, constructed between 1883 and 1890, is an engineering marvel and one of Scotland’s most recognizable landmarks. Its three cantilever towers rise over 100 meters high and stretch 2.5 kilometers across the water.

This viewpoint offers picture-perfect views of the historic railway bridge and the surrounding landscape. Since admission is free, it’s an excellent quick photo stop that provides context for the engineering achievement and scenic beauty of this iconic site.

The Old Course at St. Andrews: Golf’s Holy Grail

Next, the tour visits the famous Old Course, known worldwide as the birthplace of golf. This public course is open to all and features legendary landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and the Hell Bunker. Its reputation draws golf enthusiasts who dream of walking the same fairways as legends.

While the course itself remains accessible to the public, the tour offers the option to join an official guided walk for a closer look at the 1st, 17th, and 18th holes. This guided tour takes roughly an hour and lets you walk in the footsteps of golf icons, gaining insights into the course’s rich history and unique layout. Note that entry fees for the guided walk are extra.

Exploring St. Andrews Old Town and University

A visit to St. Andrews includes a stop at the University of St Andrews, the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Founded in the 15th century, the university’s historic campus is a significant part of the town’s identity. The site is also where Prince William and Kate Middleton reportedly met during their studies.

Spending around 30 minutes at the university allows for a quick overview of its architecture and history, with opportunities for photos and to soak in its academic atmosphere. The university’s role in the town’s cultural fabric makes it a meaningful stop during the tour.

Discovering the Ruins of St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral

The tour also includes visits to St. Andrews Castle and St. Andrews Cathedral, two of the most striking medieval sites in Scotland. The castle ruins date back to the 13th century and feature impressive remnants like the siege mine and the bottle dungeon, a notorious medieval prison cut from solid rock.

The Cathedral, once Scotland’s largest church, offers a glimpse into its former grandeur through its remaining walls and the museum’s collection of medieval sculptures. The View from St. Rules Tower provides sweeping vistas of the Fife Coast, making these stops visually and historically rewarding.

Sampling Scottish Heritage at The Jigger Inn

For a taste of local tradition, the tour includes an hour at The Jigger Inn, a historic pub dating back to the 1850s. Once the station master’s lodge, it now hosts golf memorabilia, a welcoming fire, and a selection of Scottish beers.

The pub is famous as the “19th hole” of St. Andrews and offers regional favorites alongside the Jigger Ale, exclusive to this pub and The American Club in Wisconsin. While reservation is recommended, this stop provides an authentic Scottish pub experience amid the town’s historic ambiance.

Optional Golf and Putting Fun at The Himalayas

Adjacent to the Old Course, the Himalayas Putting Course offers a 45-minute, fun-filled links-style putting experience. Open to the public since its founding as the St Andrews Ladies Golf Club in 1867, it’s perfect for those wanting a quick golf-related activity without requiring a full round.

The unique design mimics the challenging terrain of links golf, providing a memorable way to engage with the sport. Participation is not included in the base tour price and requires an additional fee if desired.

Visiting St. Andrews’ Historic Sites: Castle and Cathedral

Beyond the ruins, the tour emphasizes St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral as key highlights. The castle ruins tell stories of medieval sieges and royal connections, while the cathedral remains demonstrate the grandeur of one of Scotland’s most significant religious sites.

Both sites are outside and open for exploration, with no admission fees included. The views from St. Rules Tower atop the cathedral precinct give a panoramic perspective of the town and coast, rounding out the historical experience.

Relaxing at the End: The Jigger Inn or Alternative Lunch Options

The tour’s schedule allows time for a relaxing break at The Jigger Inn, a favorite for locals and visitors alike. However, if a lunch reservation is desired at this historic pub, advance notice is recommended, or alternative dining options can be arranged.

This flexible approach ensures that participants can enjoy a leisurely meal or drink before concluding their day with further sightseeing or transportation back to Edinburgh.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private tour suits golf lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a comfortable, curated experience of St. Andrews and its surroundings. The inclusion of guided walks and transport in a luxury vehicle makes it ideal for visitors who prefer tailored, engaging sightseeing without the hassle of managing multiple bookings or navigating alone.

While the tour offers a rundown, it’s important to remember that entry fees for attractions are not included, so budget accordingly for additional tickets if wanting to explore inside sites like the castle or cathedral.

Final Thoughts on the St. Andrews & The Old Course Private Day Tour

This tour provides a luxurious and flexible way to see some of Scotland’s most iconic sights in one day. The personalized service, expert local guides, and scenic routes make it a memorable journey, especially for those with an interest in golf or Scottish history.

The main limitations are the absence of included entrance fees and potential site closures, as experienced during some reviews. However, the overall experience remains highly positive, with many appreciating the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.

If you value a private, tailored day that combines natural beauty, historic sites, and golf lore, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of St. Andrews and its legendary courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz is included from your chosen Edinburgh location.

Can I join guided walks of the Old Course?
Yes, the guided walk of the Old Course can be added for an extra charge, taking about an hour around key holes.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, admission to sites like St. Andrews Castle, Cathedral, and distilleries is not included and must be paid separately if desired.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

Is this tour suitable for non-golfers?
Absolutely. While golf-related stops are prominent, the tour also features historic sites, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops that appeal to non-golfers.

Can I customize the stops?
Being a private tour, it offers some flexibility, especially if you wish to include or skip certain sites like the Himalayas Putting Course or specific eateries.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, suitable for outdoor walking and sightseeing, is recommended. Bottled water and Wi-Fi are provided for your convenience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions are not mentioned. It’s best to check with the provider if traveling with young children.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.