Things to do in St Andrews

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Fife

St Andrews Links

The St. Andrews Golf Course is the birthplace of golf traditions and rules. Golf competitions have been held here since the 15th century. In 1754, the Royal Classic Golf Club was established here, and the Open Championship is held every year. Many golf open championships have been held here. Despite its reputation, it is commendable that it has always been open to the public.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Fife

St Andrews Cathedral

St. Andrews Cathedral is one of the most magnificent medieval buildings in Scotland. The cathedral was built earlier in 1160 and was the focus of pilgrimage until 1559. However, during the Religious Reformation, it was looted, leaving only the ruins in front of it. From the surviving remains today, you can still feel the grand scale of the church back then. The church's museum houses a large collection of medieval sculptures, as well as Celtic crosses and tombstones found on the site at that time. The nearby St. Regulus Church now only has the tower StRule'sTower, and the ancient tower overlooks the panoramic view of St. Andrews.

West Sands Beach

West Sands Beach is located next to the Old Course and is famous as a filming location for the movie "Chariots of Fire". The beautiful beach and soaring seagulls are a stunning view here. On a clear day, it's incredibly refreshing to come here, enjoy the sea breeze, and gaze at the ocean. Along the beach, you'll find a variety of seafood restaurants and cafes where you can sit back and relax or enjoy a meal. If you book in advance, you can even enjoy the freshest catch of the day. If you visit in winter, the sea breeze is strong and the temperatures are low, so don't forget to dress warmly.

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle stands atop a volcanic rock cliff at the end of the Royal Mile. For nearly a thousand years, it has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison, bearing witness to Scotland's turbulent history. The castle brings together several iconic buildings and exhibition halls: St Margaret's Chapel, built in the twelfth century, is one of the earliest surviving stone structures in Edinburgh, and this Romanesque chapel still retains its medieval appearance; the One O'Clock Gun, in use since 1861, was originally fired to help calibrate time for ships in the Firth of Forth, a tradition that has continued for more than a hundred years and is one of the castle's most recognizable traditional features. In the Crown Room of the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland are displayed alongside the Stone of Destiny; this set of treasures, comprising a crown, a sceptre, and a sword of state, dates back to the sixteenth century and is an important symbol of Scottish sovereignty. The National War Museum on the west side of the castle uses uniforms, medals, and weapons to trace Scotland's centuries of military history. Looking north from the high ramparts of the castle, visitors can take in the magnificent sea views of the Firth of Forth; this is also an excellent spot for overlooking the skyline of Edinburgh's Old Town.

St Andrews Castle

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Edinburgh Old Town

Edinburgh Old Town refers to the old town area of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The district preserves many buildings from the European Middle Ages and the Scottish Reformation, including notable landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral, the General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland, the Surgeons' Hall, the National Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Strolling through the streets of Edinburgh Old Town, exploring the unique architecture, pubs, restaurants, and shops on either side, with the occasional sound of beautiful Scottish bagpipe music in the air, is a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and serves as the official residence of His Majesty the King of Scotland, used for state ceremonies and official entertainment. This palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the palace includes the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where many dramatic events occurred during her brief and tumultuous reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary David Rizzio by her husband Lord Darnley. In the palace's State Apartments, visitors can admire the magnificent Great Gallery, where grand balls were held in September 1745 when Bonnie Prince Charlie established his Jacobite court at the palace. Today's State Apartments reflect the evolving tastes of successive monarchs, renowned for their exquisite plaster ceilings and an unparalleled collection of Brussels tapestries. They house a significant portion of the Royal Collection's artworks, many of which have long-standing connections to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scotland. A visit to the palace also includes the opportunity to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the palace's unique gardens, set against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat. At the palace café, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from local produce, ranging from light snacks and lunches to afternoon tea.

Craigtoun Country Park

Scotland's Secret Bunker

St Andrews Aquarium