by Audrey Herrin
(St. Andrews cathedral ruins)
St. Andrews is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Edinburgh, and for good reason. Not only is St. Andrews home to the worlds’ first golf course and the third oldest university in the UK, but it is also chock full of stunning views and ancient history.
However, St. Andrews is a bit of a trek from Edinburgh and is best visited when you have scheduled enough time for a full-day trip. The best time of year to visit is summer, when the town isn’t overrun with students and the weather is more welcoming. The weather in St. Andrews is extremely fickle and is liable to change by the minute, so be sure to come prepared for sudden wind and rain.
There is no direct train from Edinburgh to St. Andrews. You will need to book a train from Waverley or Haymarket to Leuchars station and then catch a bus from Leuchars to the town center. Although this may sound like a hassle, the buses arrive about every ten minutes and the ride is short.
What to do for History Lovers
When you first arrive in St. Andrews, be sure to explore the three main streets of the town, where you will be met with stupidly picturesque views at every turn.
History lovers will want to stroll down the narrow seaside street called The Scores, starting from the famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club. The club is exclusive to members only, but golf fans can admire the birthplace of their sport from the outside and perhaps watch some players on the Old Course.
Continuing East along the Scores, you will encounter the Martyrs Monument, a reminder of Scotland’s bloody history of religious persecution. The tall obelisk commemorates the Protestant martyrs who were killed in the years leading up to the Reformation.
Farther along, you’ll pass ancient stone university buildings as you approach the castle and cathedral ruins. Both of these are worth a visit. The cathedral was once the largest in Scotland, and the remaining turrets and arches are still awe-inspiring and almost appear to defy gravity.
What to do for Nature Lovers
While St. Andrews is known for its ancient history, it also offers beautiful nature for those looking for a break from urban tourism.
There are three golden sand beaches in St. Andrews, with West Sands being the largest at over two miles long. If you’re lucky enough to visit when the weather is warm, the beaches are popular for swimming and surfing.
There is a scenic little harbor at East Sands beach. At one end is the historic pier. At the other end, you can start hiking along the Fife coastal path, where you might spot a herd of Highland Cows.
Where to Eat
Some of the best coffee in town can be found at Taste or Spoiled Life. If you’re looking for a sit-down brunch or afternoon tea, you can’t go wrong with Bibi’s or Gorgeous cafe. (Insider tip: if you visit the Toppings bookshop and ask for tea or coffee, they will serve it to you for free!)
For lunch, the Cheesy Toastie Shack serves scrumptious mac and cheese toasties that you can enjoy at beachside picnic tables. However, beware of the seagulls! They can be very aggressive.
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