Now if you ask people what St Andrews is famous for pretty sure 99% would say that it’s golf. St Andrews has been a pilgrimage for golfers from all over the world looking to tread the hallowed fairways of what is the home of the sport. With iconic landmarks such as the road hole and the Swilcan Bridge where so many famous photos have been taken it is no surprise that golf enthusiasts have a round on the old course high up on their bucket list. But there is much more to the town of St Andrews than just the golf course. So if you are not a golf fan what else is there to entice you to this famous coastal town. In this article we have had a look at some of the main reasons to visit St Andrews if golf is not your thing.
The Beach
The wide expanse of sand at St Andrews was the setting for the opening and closing scenes of the film chariots of fire which tells the story of two British Olympians at the 1924 Paris games. Both scenes feature the team running along the beach to the accompaniment of the famous Vangelis theme tune. West Sands is a mere fifteen-minute walk from town centre and covers around 2 miles of coastline. West Sands is extremely popular with both walkers and runners as well as those swimmers who want to brave the cool temperatures of the sea.
Walk the Fife Coastal Path
Well not all of it as it actually runs for around 117 miles. However, if you follow the signs located in the town you can do the St Andrews section of the famous walk. There are a number of options for example a short walk would be from the town to the Fairmont hotel and back. This will take a couple of hours and is a nice relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon as well as giving you spectacular views of the old town. If you are feeling more adventurous you could venture to one of the villages situated further down the coast such as Crail or Anstruther.
Explore the Town
Visiting St Andrews will certainly not leave you short of things to see, whether you are on holiday or not. Highlights include the cathedral, castle ruins, the pier and botanic gardens. Then there is the university where famous students have included Kate Middleton and Prince William whose relationship blossomed while studying there. It is definitely worth visiting both St Salvators Quad and St Marys College both of which are steeped in history. The town itself is full of the type of historic architecture that can only be found in towns that originated in medieval times.
Food and Drink
So after a long day walking or sightseeing most visitors are ready for something to eat and when it comes to dining out St Andrews will not disappoint. St Andrews is home to some of the best restaurants to be found in Scotland. When you add in the array of pubs that can be found in the town you will never be short of somewhere to eat and drink.
Have a Spa Day at The Old Course Hotel
Who doesn’t like a day of relaxation and pampering? It doesn’t get much better than the spa at the old course hotel. Choose from a wide range of treatments such as relaxing massages, facials and scrubs among other things. A spa day could be a great way to finish off your trip and revitalise those aching muscles after all that exploring.
Final Thoughts
St Andrews is only just over an hour from Edinburgh so why not combine the two in your trip. If you have travelled to the capital by plane why not make use of the very reasonable priced Edinburgh Airport car hire to help facilitate your trip to St Andrews.
