Private St Andrews Town, Golf and Old Course Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore over 2,000 years of history on this guided walking tour through St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Led by a professional local guide, visit all the major sites like the Cathedral ruins and the Old Course. This tour not only reveals the rich heritage of St Andrews but also its significant role in the evolution of golf itself. With something for everyone, this tour is Ideal for both the golfer and non-golfer but the tour is not suitable for under 5s. A public variation of this tour is also available on Viator: St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History
- Enjoy a private exclusive guided tour with a professional local guide
- Discover all the major St Andrews' landmarks, including the Cathedral and the Old Course
- Capture memorable photos en route to having bucket list photos on the Swilkan Bridge!
- Tours run daily from March to October with a duration of 2 hours
Available options
Private St Andrews Town, Golf and Old Course Walking Tour
What's included
Professional English speaking local guide
Professionally taken photos (with your phone) on the Swilkan Bridge
Detailed itinerary
1
Introduction to the tour and a little about the historical significance of the 15th century church.
2
Part of St Andrews university this picturesque haven is St Mary's College and dates to 1538.
3
Originally dating to 1160, this former Knights Templar tenement is one of the oldest buildings in the centre of St Andrews.
4
Scotland's top ice cream store and cafe!!
5
Dating to 1383, this was once the grand public entrance to the Cathedral precincts.
6
Character. filled post graduates residence with parts dating to circa 1100 and a hidden medieval garden.
7
Stop 7
The Grand Cathedral ruins. Once the eclesiastical seat of the Catholic church in Scotland. We explore its history, the history of the town and visit a grave and two family plots of early golfing pikonnering giants: Tom Morris family, Jamie Anderson and Allan Robertson.
8
Stop 8
Originally built as the St Andrews Bishops Palace in 1200 and having been rebuilt at least three times, its ruins remain as a testiment to the wealth and power the Catholic church held here for over 400 years.
9
Th flagship of St Andrews University where we visit the 15th century university chapel.
10
Erected October 2024, the statue of Old Tom stands as a homage to the grandfather of golf.
11
Visit the 18th green, 1st tee, 1st/18th fairway learning of the development of the course and the game of golf plus anecdotes and memorable golfing moments.
12
Opportunity for photos on the iconic Swilkan Bridge (excludes tournament/championship days).
13
The tour finishes here outside the Jigger Inn, part of the Old Course Hotel. Your guide will give recommendations of further attractions to visit. The Jigger Inn is the ultimate 19th hole for food and refreshments. Situated by the 17th fairway, sitting outside the back affords the best views in the game of golf anywhere in the world. NB. You can't book a table for outside, but the area is large and rarely a problem getting a table. Best fish and chips anywhere!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tours not suitable for under 5s
A fluent command of English is essential for all participants. Speaking slowly or translating does not work.
Not suitable for Crutches, walking frames, mobility scooters
There is nowhere to leave luggage, shopping or golf clubs etc while on tour, so make alternative arrangements
Not suitabe for those with new knee/hip replacements, sprainked ankles etc.
Meeting point
Meet outside the Bothy restaurant in the centre of St Andrews town. Situated in the square behind Holy Trinity Church.
Important notes
Important: Your ticket carries virtually no tour information so it is irrelevant for this tour - we will know who you are so you don't need it. You do however need to refer to your confirmation email for all the important tour details including meeting point and parking details etc.
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.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
