Destination Guide: St Andrews & Fife
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
The Home of Golf
For golfers travelling to Scotland, few destinations carry the same magic as St Andrews.
Known globally as the Home of Golf, this historic university town sits along Scotland’s east coast in the region of Fife. The town is steeped in centuries of golfing tradition and remains one of the most iconic destinations in the sport.
Many visitors planning Scotland golf trips build their itinerary around the opportunity to walk the famous fairways of the Old Course at St Andrews.
Beyond the golf, the town offers a lively atmosphere, beautiful coastal scenery and charming historic streets.
Sightseeing: St Andrew’s Cathedral
The ruins of St Andrews Cathedral dominate the skyline above the North Sea. Once the largest church in medieval Scotland, the cathedral dates back to the 12th century.
Visitors can explore the dramatic ruins and climb St Rule’s Tower for sweeping views of the town and coastline.
Travel Tip: St. Andrew’s is still an active place of worship, so best to check daily service times before your visit. The 12noon service on Sunday often features stunning choral singing.
Sightseeing: The Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path stretches for over 100 miles along the region’s shoreline. Short sections of the trail provide spectacular walks connecting small fishing villages, historic harbours, and quiet beaches.
It’s a wonderful way to experience Scotland’s coastal scenery away from the golf course.
Travel Tip: Walk the Elie to Crail section (East Neuk), famous for its charming fishing villages, tidal pools, and fresh seafood. Walking it anticlockwise (e.g., towards St Andrews) keeps the wind at your back!
Sightseeing: Walking the Old Course and Links
Even if you’re not teeing off, the world-famous Old Course at St Andrews and surrounding links are open to the public for walking. Strolling the fairways and iconic holes is a must-do for golf fans, offering a close-up view of the course’s history, architecture and stunning coastal backdrop.
Travel Tip: Walking the course is allowed outside of play times, so check tee time schedules to avoid interfering with golfers. Don’t miss famous landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker, both easily accessible from public paths.
Food & Dining – St Andrews & Fife
St Andrews offers a vibrant dining scene, from traditional Scottish fare to modern, locally inspired cuisine. Golfers can enjoy everything from hearty pub meals to fine dining, all within walking distance of the Old Course and town centre.
Here are some popular choices in the area:
The Seafood Ristorante – Located on the Scores, this Italian-inspired seafood restaurant offers stunning views of the Old Course and expertly prepared local seafood.
Forgan’s – A lively, family-owned restaurant serving modern Scottish dishes, known for fresh, local produce and creative menus.
Eden Mill St Andrews – Part brewery, part restaurant, this is perfect for casual dining, craft beers, and locally distilled spirits.
And for drinks:
The Jigger Inn – Historic pub overlooking the 18th hole of the Old Course, serving traditional ales and classic pub fare.
The Dunvegan Hotel Bar – A cosy spot with rich golfing history, perfect for a post-round drink.
The Central Bar – Known for live music and a bustling atmosphere, a favourite among students and visiting golfers alike.
Local Tip from Our Team
Spend time simply wandering St Andrews after your round. The town’s narrow streets, historic university buildings and relaxed coastal atmosphere are as much a part of the experience as the golf itself.
