St Andrews tourist information

Mention St Andrews and many people will think firstly of golf, but this lively and characterful town has many attractions.

The world famous and unique Old Course is thought to where golf was first played 600 years ago, and has hosted the Open Championship 28 times. Despite being one of the most prestigious in the world it remains a public course, one of seven at St Andrews Links, and there are many others to visit in the local area. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club was founded here in 1754 and became the governing body overseeing the rules of the game. The British Golf Museum explains the fascinating history of the sport.

St Andrews is also a fine University town with a rich history and wealth of attractive old stone buildings. Founded in 1413, its prestigious seat of learning was the first University in Scotland, and recent graduates include Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The ruined castle sits in a dramatic coastal position and has a network of secret underground passages and a terrifying dungeon carved from the rock beneath. The castle, a ruined 12th century cathedral and other historic buildings are testament to the importance of St Andrews through history, starting in the 8th century when the relics of St Andrew, patron saint of Scotland were brought here.

St Andrews also has a lovely coastal setting with some great beaches. The West beach was the location for the famous running scene in the film Chariots of Fire.