The historic City of St.Andrews is renowned worldwide as "The Home of Golf"with its five eighteen hole courses and the frequent return of "The Open Golf Championship ". There is, however, much more to the ancient city than golf, here, in 1411, Scotland's oldest University was founded. The combination of students, tourists and local residents gives the place a unique vibrancy and cosmopolitan nature for a present day town of its size. This mix of inhabitants has, over the years, allowed St.Andrews to develop a range of facilities and amenities of which any major city would be proud.

A brief History

In exploring St.Andrews, it is impossible not to be interested by the 12th century grid lay-out of thoroughfares, with all three main streets leading to the great cathedral, which housed the bones of Scotland's Patron-Saint Andrew. Hence the name of the ancient city. Not far from the Cathedral is the Castle, originally the Palace of the Bishops of St.Andrews who wielded great power over state and church politics and brought wealth to St.Andrews. Enhancing this wealth were five fairs or markets held in the City, the current Lammas fun fair, held in August each year, commemorating its mediaeval counterpart. Pilgrims from all over Europe came here to honour Saint Andrew, and merchants came with their goods to the fairs. St.Andrews has therefore always been cosmopolitan in nature.

St.Andrews Today

Having played a round of golf, spent a day on one of the local beaches, enjoyed a game of tennis or putting, done a spot of sea fishing from the harbour or browsed around in the local shops and museums, you may be looking for some refreshments. The choice is huge. Sandwich bars, café's, restaurants, wine bars and pubs abound. Further, the choice of cuisine is global. For the evening, the small town is blessed by the presence of the Byre Theatre with its year- round programme of entertainment as well as Café/Bar. The cinema is an obvious alternative. An excellent Leisure Centre providing indoor swimming, squash and snooker remains popular throughout the year.
Overall modern St.Andrews offers a full spectrum of facilities for tourists. There is something here for everyone to enjoy be it sporting, artistic, historical, gourmet, or just sheer relaxation, all interests are more than catered for. This vibrant, beautiful, ancient city is the ideal place for your holiday.

Around St.Andrews

There is a wide range of attractions, not more than thirty minutes drive away from St.Andrews. To the south are the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife. The beautiful towns of Ceres, Falkland and Elie, are all well worth a visit. For day excursions, Stirling, Perth and Edinburgh are all easily reached by car or train. Leuchars, the station serving St.Andrews, is a mere five miles away. The station is on the main east coast London-Edinburgh line which also serves Dundee - 20 minutes from St.Andrews by car. As well as being a major shopping centre, Dundee offers the Discovery Point tourist attraction, where Captain Scott's ship "Discovery" and the 19th century frigate "Unicorn" can be visited.