St Andrews might be small, but don’t let that fool you – it’s one of the most famous places in Scotland. Known around the world as the Home of Golf, it’s also home to the country’s oldest university, some seriously impressive medieval ruins, and a beach you might recognise from the movies.

However it came onto your radar, one thing’s for sure: now’s the perfect time to get properly introduced. We’ll walk you through why St Andrews is one of the best places in Scotland for a memorable day out or a peaceful coastal escape.

In this blog, we’ll dive into:

Why St Andrews is so famous – and not just because of golf.
Whether it’s worth a visit, especially if you’ve got limited time in Scotland.
10 fun facts – because everyone loves a good trivia list.
How easy it is to explore on foot – spoiler: it’s very walkable.
Where the name ‘St Andrews’ comes from – with a bit of legend thrown in.
Top things to do – including castles, cathedrals, beaches and more.
Edinburgh - St Andrews Day Tour

So if you’re curious about what makes this coastal town so special – or planning a visit soon – you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

Why Is St Andrews So Famous?

St Andrews has a global reputation that far outweighs its size, and for good reason. This small seaside town in Fife has played a big role in Scotland’s religious, educational, sporting, and even romantic history. Its fame doesn’t rest on a single thing—it’s a blend of stories, traditions, and landmarks that have made it one of the most iconic places in the country.

The Home of Golf

Perhaps the biggest reason for St Andrews’ international fame is golf. It’s known as the **“Home of Golf”**, and with good reason—golf has been played here for over 600 years. The Old Course at St Andrews is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world. It's where the rules of the game were shaped and where legends have competed in The Open Championship for generations.
The Old Course is still a public course, and on Sundays, it closes to golfers and becomes a public park—people walk their dogs, have picnics, and take in the iconic view of the Swilcan Bridge and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club. That’s part of the charm: it’s a place of sporting legend, but still rooted in the everyday life of the town.

Scotland’s First University

St Andrews is also home to the **University of St Andrews**, Scotland’s oldest university and one of the most respected in the world. Founded in 1413, it has been a centre of learning and debate for over 600 years. It’s the third oldest university in the English-speaking world, and its alumni include philosophers, politicians, and royalty—including Prince William and Catherine Middleton, who famously met here as students.
The university is deeply woven into the town’s identity. Its traditions—like the academic gowns, May Dip, and Raisin Weekend—are still alive and well, giving the town a vibrant, youthful atmosphere throughout the academic year.

A Centre of Religion and Pilgrimage

Before it became known for golf and universities, St Andrews was famous for something else entirely: religion. In medieval times, it was one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Europe. The now-ruined **St Andrews Cathedral**, once the largest church in Scotland, drew thousands of pilgrims who came to venerate relics believed to belong to Saint Andrew, one of the apostles and the patron saint of Scotland.
The town’s name comes from this very figure, and the religious legacy is still visible in its architecture, street names, and traditions.

Pop Culture, Royal Romance & Coastal Beauty

St Andrews has had its share of pop culture moments too. **West Sands Beach**, a sweeping stretch of coastline next to the golf course, was famously featured in the opening scene of *Chariots of Fire*. And thanks to its royal connection—Prince William and Kate’s relationship began here—the town has regularly appeared in headlines and royal documentaries.
Add to that its dramatic coastal setting, cobbled streets, medieval ruins, and friendly atmosphere, and it’s not hard to see why so many people fall in love with St Andrews. It’s a town that feels both grand and intimate, ancient and alive—where every corner has a story, and history meets the sea.

Top 10 Facts About St Andrews

Golf Origins: The Old Course is considered the world's oldest golf course.
Academic Prestige: The University of St Andrews was established in 1413.
Royal Connection: Prince William and Catherine Middleton met while studying here.
Religious Significance: The town was a major pilgrimage site in medieval times.
Population: As of 2011, the town had a population of approximately 16,800.
Film Location: West Sands Beach featured in the opening scene of "Chariots of Fire."
Botanic Garden: Established in 1889, it houses over 8,000 plant species.
Cultural Events: The town hosts various festivals, including the St Andrews Voices festival.
Architectural Heritage: St Andrews boasts a mix of medieval, Victorian, and modern architecture.
Educational Influence: The university attracts students from over 140 countries.

Is St Andrews Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—and not just if you're into golf. St Andrews is one of those rare places that seems to offer a little something for everyone. If you're a history lover, you’ll find ancient ruins, medieval streets, and centuries of stories built into every corner of the town. If you're into the outdoors, there are long coastal walks, windswept beaches, and plenty of fresh sea air. If food’s your thing, the town punches well above its weight with cosy cafés, fresh seafood, and more than a few excellent pubs. And of course, if you're a golfer, well… this is the pilgrimage.

Personally, I always find myself returning to St Andrews when I need a proper reset. There’s something about grabbing a coffee on South Street, walking past the cathedral ruins as seagulls circle overhead, and then heading down to the beach with your boots off that makes you feel completely grounded. It’s peaceful, but never boring—and it always feels like a place that’s been quietly waiting for you to come back.

So yes, St Andrews is well worth visiting—whether it’s your first time in Scotland or your tenth. It’s a place that combines history, beauty and calm in a way that’s hard to beat.

Can You Walk Around St Andrews?
Yes – and walking is hands-down the best way to see St Andrews. The town is compact, charming, and totally walkable. You can wander from the castle ruins to the cathedral, stroll down to the beach, cut through the university buildings, and be back in the centre for a bite to eat all within an afternoon. It’s one of those places where every turn reveals another little view, quiet alleyway, or bit of history you didn’t expect to find.
One of my favourite walks is down The Scores, a street that runs right along the edge of the sea. On one side, you’ve got historic buildings and university halls, and on the other, waves crashing against the rocks. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a little, perfect for aimless wandering and soaking it all in.

Where Does the Name St Andrews Come From?
The town gets its name from **Saint Andrew**, one of the twelve apostles and the patron saint of Scotland. Legend has it that relics of Saint Andrew—possibly a tooth, a kneecap, or a few bones—were brought to the area by a monk named Saint Regulus (or Rule) after he was shipwrecked here in the 4th century. These relics turned the town into a major place of pilgrimage during the Middle Ages.
Whether or not the relic story is true, the name stuck, and Saint Andrew became closely tied to Scotland’s identity—from the town, to the saltire flag, to the annual feast day on November 30th. So when you visit St Andrews, you're not just visiting a town—you’re stepping into a place deeply woven into Scotland’s national story.

Top Things to Do in St Andrews

Visit the Old Course: Experience the birthplace of golf with a guided tour or a round of golf.
Explore St Andrews Cathedral: Wander through the ruins of what was once Scotland's largest cathedral.
Tour St Andrews Castle: Discover the history of this coastal fortress, including its underground mine and counter-mine.
Walk Along West Sands Beach: Enjoy the expansive shoreline and stunning views.
Visit the University of St Andrews: Take a campus tour to learn about its rich academic heritage.
Stroll Through the Botanic Garden: Explore diverse plant collections and themed gardens.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Dine at renowned eateries like The Peat Inn or sample fresh seafood at local bistros.
Shop on Market Street: Browse boutique shops, bookstores, and artisan stores.
Visit the British Golf Museum: Learn about the history of golf through interactive exhibits.
Attend a Local Festival: Experience events like the St Andrews Voices festival or university traditions.