Our stores recommend: A guide to St Andrews
University of St Andrews
Founded in 1413, St Andrews is home to the oldest university in Scotland. Besides the incredible architecture, many greats have attended including Benjamin Franklin and author, Rudyard Kipling. But in recent years and arguably more famously, the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine. Although we can’t promise you’ll bump into any familiar faces, it’s definitely worth a visit to explore the impressive grounds and learn more about the history of this world-famous institution.
The University of St Andrews image credit: St-Andrews.ac.uk
The University of St Andrews building image credit: STV News
Golf at St Andrews Links
Known as ‘The Home of Golf’, the game has been played at St Andrews Links for over 600 years, after the Archbishop Hamilton’s Charter recognised the need for St Andrews’ residents to play golf at the Links. Over the centuries, golf at St Andrews has become renowned, with The Old Course being the most famous course in the world – and it’s no wonder, with unmatched views over the 18th green and it being home to six annual tournaments including the prestigious St Andrews Links Trophy. Despite its impressive reputation, however, the course is open to all. All that they ask is that men have a minimum handicap of 24, with women having a minimum of 36.
St Andrews Old Course green image credit: Evalu18
St Andrews Old Course image credit: Evalu18
West Sands Beach
A 15-minute walk from the town centre is West Sands Beach. Spanning 2 miles of uninterrupted sands and stunning dunes, it’s a popular walking destination for locals and visitors of the town. Part of the Eden Estuary Special Area for Conservation and winner of the Keep Scotland Beautiful 2024 Scotland’s Beach Award, it’s unsurprisingly renowned for its breathtaking scenery. However, West Sands beach is probably best known for being the setting to the opening scene of the film Chariots of Fire, one of the most iconic scenes in cinema history. We highly recommend a walk along the sands for yourself, listen to Vangelis into your headphones (for film-buffs really wanting to become emersed) and take in the beautiful coastal sights.
West Sands Beach image credit: Fife Coast and Countryside Trust
Chariots of Fire during filming, 1981 image credit: Chariots of Fire (1981) - Photos - IMDb
Town Centre
St Andrews’ town centre is a bustling hub of unique, independent businesses, from quirky shops, restaurants and galleries. It has something for everyone whether you’re a foodie, into local history or enjoy a spot of retail therapy. Talking of which, why not stop by our Crew store where you’ll be welcomed by Carol and the team. Our latest collection is full of pieces we think will look great on you – the perfect excuse to treat yourself to something new. And there’s no better way to finish off your day than by grabbing something to eat. Carol recommends The Saint Bar and Kitchen, offering locally sourced Scottish food and drink. And for dessert? Head to Janetta’s Gelateria for some delicious Gelato – yum!
St Andrews Town Centre image credit: St Andrews - Food from Fife