St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History

St. Andrews , United Kingdom

St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History

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(138 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Led by local town/golf historian and author Richard Falconer, these tours give a passionate all-round insight into how the game developed through St Andrews unique history. As you explore St Andrews the tour entwines town history with the game we know and love. Visit the University and Cathedral with graves of the Tom Morris family and Allan Roberston, then to the Palace. The tour culminates at the Old Course and a photoshoot on the Swilkan Bridge.

Available options

St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History

What's included

Professional English speaking guide Richard Falconer, author/historian

Detailed itinerary

Tours start here with your guide, author and historian Richard Falconer.

Stop 2

Learn about Scotland's oldest University established 1413. Visit St Salvator's College and University Chapel.

Stop 3

Learn about the iconic ruins of the Cathedral and pay your respects to golfing greats Old and Young Tom Morris, Allan Robertson and Jamie Anderson.

Stop 4

Find out about this former Bishops Palace, then as we walk to the Old Course hear about Tom Morris and Allan Robertson and how the Open Championship began.

Learn about the evolution of both golf and Old Course development, together with some of the adjoining landmarks.

Tours finish with a photo opportunity on the famous bridge with details of nearby iconic buildings. Excludes tournament days.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

82 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

56 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A fluent command of English is essential for all participants. Speaking slowly or translating does not work

Under 5s free, not suitable for under 2s

Not suitable for Baby strollers/carriages

There is nowhere to leave any of the above or golf clubs etc while on tour so make other arrangements and do not ask!

As part of your tour, you will be by the Old Course and walk across the 1st/18th fairway. You will do this at your own risk and you must keep an eye out for golf balls during live play!

Not suitable for travelers with walking difficulties (walking slowly)

Not suitable for hip/knee problems, sprained ankles, walking frames, crutches or mobility scooters

Meeting point

Please be on time as the tours will not wait. All tours start outside front entrance Hotel du Vin on the Scores.

Important notes

Meeting point is outside the front of Hotel du Vin, 40 the Scores.

Participants must have a fluent command of English. Translating or speaking slowly does not work.

Tours are not suitable for children under 2 years.

As it states on the website, this tour is NOT suitable for those with walking difficulties. This includes those with walking aids.

Do not attempt to come on a tour if you have a cold or flu-like symptoms.

• Tickets are refundable up to 24 hours before your tour.

• Allow plenty of time to park and bring pound coins for parking meters.

• Tours start promptly at the scheduled times:
We do not wait on the off chance of you turning up late. If you think you will be running late you must contact before the tour start time. You will then be advised if you can join the tour or reschedule. Failure to notify negates your right to reschedule. As stated there are no refunds unless cancelled 24 hours in advance or by the tour director. You will not receive a reply once the tour has started.

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to those on the tour who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is cancelled, you will not be entitled to a refund.

• Tours may be occasionally subject to cancellation due to very extreme weather. Please check point of sale when conditions are severe. In the event of cancellation by the team the tour will be rescheduled, tickets can be refunded from the point of purchase.

Any additional costs incurred by patron/s are at their own expense.

• Only guide assistance dogs allowed

About St. Andrews

St. Andrews is a historic coastal town in Scotland known as the 'Home of Golf' due to its iconic golf courses. It's also home to the prestigious University of St. Andrews and offers stunning beaches, medieval architecture, and a rich history.

Top Attractions

Old Course at St. Andrews

The most famous golf course in the world, part of the St. Andrews Links complex. A must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Golf 2-4 hours (tour or game) £20-£50 (tour), £100-£200+ (green fees)

St. Andrews Castle

A medieval castle with a rich history, including its use as a prison and fortress. Features the famous Bottle Dungeon.

Historical 1-2 hours £11.50 (adult), £6.90 (child)

St. Andrews Cathedral

The ruins of a once grand cathedral, now a historic site with a museum and gardens.

Historical 1-2 hours £11.50 (adult), £6.90 (child)

West Sands Beach

A stunning two-mile beach featured in the opening scene of 'Chariots of Fire'. Ideal for walks, water sports, and relaxation.

Nature 1-2 hours (or longer for activities) Free

British Golf Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of golf, with interactive exhibits and historic artifacts.

Museum 1-2 hours £7.50 (adult), £4.50 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oatmeal, onions, and spices, cooked in a sheep's stomach.

Main course Contains meat and offal, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the nearby town of Cullen.

Soup Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten, suitable for vegetarians.

Popular Activities

Golfing Surfing Hiking Beach walks Spas Dining Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with warmest weather, long daylight hours, and numerous events. Ideal for golfing, beach activities, and exploring the town.

12°C to 20°C 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

St. Andrews is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Dundee Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)

By train

Leuchars Station

By bus

St. Andrews Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent services. Buses are the primary mode of public transport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Town Center West End East End

Day trips

Dundee

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day to full day

A vibrant city with museums, shopping, and a rich history.

Anstruther

20 km (12.4 miles) • Half day

A charming coastal town known for its seafood and historic harbor.

St. Andrews Links Trust

Within town • Full day

A collection of golf courses, including the famous Old Course.

Festivals

St. Andrews Day • November 30 St. Andrews Golf Week • July St. Andrews Food and Drink Festival • September

Pro tips

Book tee times for the Old Course well in advance, as they can be difficult to secure.
Visit the historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Take a walk along West Sands Beach for stunning views and a relaxing experience.
Try local specialties like haggis, Cullen skink, and Cranachan for an authentic Scottish dining experience.
Explore the town's charming streets and shops for unique souvenirs and local crafts.