St Andrews Walking Tours

Discover the charm of St Andrews through an engaging guided walking tour that lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Priced at $20.57 per person, this tour offers a deep dive into the city’s rich past with a knowledgeable historian guiding you through its most iconic sites. With a maximum group size of 30 travelers, the experience balances intimacy and lively discussion. The tour departs from The Bothy St Andrews at 2:00 pm and concludes at the world-famous Old Course, making it a practical option for those with limited time in the area.

This tour brings together historic landmarks, scenic streets, and hidden corners of St Andrews, perfect for history buffs, golf enthusiasts, or new visitors eager to uncover the city’s stories. The tour is affordable, offers free admission to most stops, and includes a flexible cancellation policy—a smart choice for anyone wanting a reliable, informative overview of this storied Scottish town.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes of storytelling and sightseeing
• Price: $20.57 per person, offering great value for a comprehensive city walk
• Highlights: Visit St Mary’s College, St Andrews Cathedral, and St Andrews Castle, plus the Old Course
• Expert Guide: Led by a knowledgeable historian sharing insights into golf history and royal connections
• Ideal for: Visitors short on time but eager to explore St Andrews’ history and scenery
• Accessibility: Suitable for moderate physical fitness; not recommended for those with walking difficulties

Starting at The Bothy St Andrews in Church Square

The tour begins at The Bothy St Andrews located on Church Square. This meeting point is close to public transportation and central to the historic town. After a brief introduction, the guide leads visitors into the heart of St Andrews, setting the tone for a richly informative journey through the city’s streets and landmarks. The start time at 2:00 pm makes it easy to include in an afternoon itinerary, with plenty of options for dining or sightseeing afterward.

The tour ends at the Swilcan Bridge on The Links, offering stunning views and plenty of nearby cafes and attractions for those wishing to extend their visit. The area around the Old Course provides a scenic backdrop for photos and relaxing moments after the tour.

Exploring St Mary’s College: A Peaceful Academic Retreat

The first stop is St Mary’s College, the second college of St Andrews University, located just off the main tourist trail. It functions as a peaceful haven away from busy streets, offering a glimpse into the historic university atmosphere. Visiting here takes about 10 minutes, with free admission.

The guide explains the significance of this site in relation to the university’s history and its role in Scottish education. This stop provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling town center, and its quiet ambiance makes it an ideal initial encounter with St Andrews’ scholarly side.

Sampling Scotland’s Best Ice Cream at Jannettas Gelateria

A quick 2-minute walk brings the group to Jannettas Gelateria, famed as the top ice cream parlour in Scotland. Though there is no charge for entry, this stop allows visitors to appreciate the local treat that has delighted generations. The ice cream parlour is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a sweet pause during the tour.

While the main focus remains on historic sites, this stop adds a flavorful touch to the experience, giving a taste of local culinary pride. It also offers a chance for photos and a short break before moving on to the next landmark.

Discovering the Magnificence of St Andrews Cathedral

The tour’s next highlight is St Andrews Cathedral, once the seat of the Catholic Church and considered the “Rome of Scotland” for hundreds of years. Visitors spend around 20 minutes here, with free admission.

The guide shares stories about the cathedral’s grand architecture and its importance in Scottish religious life. The ruins—standing as a testament to medieval craftsmanship—are impressive, and the setting provides great photo opportunities. This stop enriches understanding of the city’s spiritual past and its influence on Scottish history.

Visiting the Historic St Andrews Harbour Trust

A 10-minute stroll leads to St Andrews Harbour Trust, the historic fishing port of the town. Here, visitors see the old harbor, once vital for local livelihoods, and learn about its role in connecting St Andrews to the wider world.

The harbour’s scenic views and preserved maritime charm offer a glimpse into the town’s working-class history. This stop emphasizes the city’s coastal roots and provides a refreshingly authentic atmosphere away from tourist crowds.

Exploring St Andrews Castle and the Bishop’s Palace

The tour pauses at St Andrews Castle, where the exterior of the Bishop’s Palace is explained in about 10 minutes. While the castle itself is not included in the admission, the guide details its history and significance.

This site once served as a key religious and defensive stronghold. The castle’s ruins and its story of religious upheaval and royal intrigue make for a compelling stop. It’s a valuable glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent history, with visual cues to enhance storytelling.

Visiting the Oldest Part of St Andrews University and St Salvator’s Chapel

Next, the tour visits the oldest part of St Andrews University and St Salvator’s Chapel, each given 10 minutes. Admission is free to the chapel.

This stop highlights the university’s historic roots, dating back centuries, and provides insights into its ongoing academic heritage. The chapel’s architecture and peaceful atmosphere complement the city’s scholarly lore, making it a favorite for history enthusiasts.

The Iconic Old Course and the Home of Golf

The final major stop is The Old Course, the most prestigious golf course in the world and the home of golf. Spanning 30 minutes, this site offers sweeping views of the greens and links.

The guide discusses the course’s legendary status and its royal connections, making it especially appealing to golf fans. The tour concludes here, providing a perfect spot for photos, reflection, and enjoying the lively atmosphere with nearby cafes and shops.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour starts at The Bothy St Andrews at 2:00 pm and ends at Swilcan Bridge, with flexible options for food and drinks after. The group size is limited to 30, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking is involved, and the tour is not suitable for those with walking difficulties or under 2 years old. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation.

The free cancellation policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for booking. The tour depends on good weather, and in case of poor conditions, a different date or a full refund is offered.

Why You Should Choose This Tour of St Andrews

This guided walking tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of St Andrews, combining historic landmarks, scenic streets, and golf heritage. Led by a knowledgeable historian, it suits those looking for a short, informative outing in a compact timeframe.

While it’s not designed for visitors with walking difficulties, the tour’s moderate pace and free admission to most stops make it an excellent choice for history lovers, golf fans, or anyone wanting a convenient overview of this storied Scottish town. Its affordable price and positive reviews underscore its value for a memorable sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the St Andrews Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $20.57 per person, making it an accessible way to see key sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Bothy St Andrews in Church Square and ends at the Swilcan Bridge on The Links.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old can join for free, but it’s not suitable for under 2s. The tour requires moderate physical fitness and is not recommended for those with walking difficulties.

Are most sites included in the price?
Yes, most stops, including St Mary’s College, St Andrews Cathedral, and the Old Course, are free to visit. The guide provides historical context at each location.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible?
The tour is near public transportation, but walking slowly is recommended; it is not suitable for those with walking difficulties.

What makes this tour stand out?
The expert guide, scenic stops, and focus on golf history make it a comprehensive yet manageable way to explore St Andrews in a short amount of time.

Is there a dress code or specific clothing I should wear?
The guide suggests moderate physical fitness and walking, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

What can I do after the tour ends?
The tour concludes at Swilcan Bridge, in an area with many cafes, shops, and attractions such as the aquarium and sands, perfect for further exploration.