Road trip in Scotland #5: Saint Andrews, the legend of golf
During our road trip in Scotland, there was one stop we absolutely couldn't miss: St. Andrews.
At the time, I was traveling with my father, who is a big golf enthusiast. So of course, when we planned a trip to Scotland with him, St. Andrews was almost a mandatory stop!
And to be honest, I wasn’t completely unfamiliar with this universe since I myself have been playing golf for 15 years. Let me just say that discovering the birthplace of this sport had a very special flavor.
St. Andrews is world-renowned for its mythical Old Course, Considered one of the most emblematic golf courses in the world. It is here that golf has developed over the centuries and the greatest names in the sport have come to play.
But Saint Andrews is not just about its golf courses.
The city also has a magnificent cathedral in ruins, a prestigious university, beautiful beaches, and a charming city center.
So, even though my father clearly had a little idea in the back of his mind when he came here 😄, I also had a lot of fun discovering this beautiful Scottish town.
⛳ Saint Andrews, the cradle of golf
To understand why Saint Andrews is so famous, it is of course necessary to start with golf.
The Old Course at St Andrews Links is probably the course that most inspires golfers from all over the world.
Golf has been played in Saint Andrews for several centuries and the city is closely linked to the history of this sport. The famous Old Course is home to the prestigious Open Championship, one of the major golf tournaments.
For someone who has been playing golf for 15 years, to find myself here is quite incredible.
Of course, I knew the name of Saint Andrews and the reputation of the Old Course, but seeing it in person, walking around the course and discovering the famous clubhouse is completely different.
And for my father, who is passionate about golf, let me tell you that The detour was non-negotiable!
🏌️ The legendary Old Course
The Old Course is obviously the main attraction for golfers.
It is here that the greatest names in golf have come to play and that some of the most important moments in the history of this sport have taken place.
During our trip, the conditions for accessing the course were, among other things, related to disability, and booking a green fee had to be anticipated. There was also a lottery system to try to secure a spot.
However, please note that these procedures have changed since our trip. If you wish to play on the Old Course today, please check the conditions and availability directly with St Andrews Links before your departure.
Even if you don’t play, I think the course is well worth exploring.
One can notably see the famous 18th hole, The Swilcan Bridge and the legendary club-house.
It’s really the kind of place where, even when you’re not a golfer, you immediately understand why the place is so emblematic.
🏌️♀️ The other courses in Saint Andrews
The Old Course is obviously not the only course at St Andrews.
During our trip, several other courses were accessible to players who did not meet the requirements of the Old Course, including:
- New Course
- Jubilee Course
- Eden Course
- Strathtyrum Course
- Balgove Course
- Castle Course
These courses allow you to discover the world of golf in a different way in St Andrews.
It is also possible to take lessons with a professional, whether to learn about golf or to improve your game.
For a passionate person, this is obviously a pretty cool idea to incorporate into a stay.
🏛 What to do in Saint Andrews without playing golf?
And fortunately, even if you’ve never held a golf club in your life, Saint Andrews is worth a visit!
The city has an important historical heritage and can be easily explored on foot.
That’s what I particularly enjoyed: after spending time around the Old Course, you can simply wander the streets and discover a completely different side of Saint Andrews.
⛪ Visit the ruins of the Cathedral of Saint Andrews
The St Andrews Cathedral is one of the must-see monuments of the city.
Today largely in ruins, it remains impressive by its dimensions.
Just a walk around the ruins is enough to imagine the importance it might have had in the past.
I also really liked the large cemetery that surrounds the ruins.
The old tombstones, the remains of the cathedral and the atmosphere of the place really give the impression of going back in time.
It’s a visit I recommend even if you’re not particularly interested in history.
🎓 Discovering the University of Saint Andrews
Saint Andrews is also known for its university, one of the oldest in the United Kingdom.
It was particularly here that they met Prince William and Kate Middleton, Then students.
The university is completely part of the city’s landscape and contributes to this particular atmosphere.
As you stroll through the streets, you discover many old buildings, small squares, and typically Scottish facades.
🌊 Enjoy the beaches of Saint Andrews
St. Andrews is also a city that is oriented towards the sea.
It has large beaches that run along, in particular, the golf courses.
I found it quite amusing to see this association between Golf, the sea and Scottish architecture.
If you have time, plan a short walk along the coast. This allows you to discover Saint Andrews from a different perspective and take a break between visits.
🏘️ Taking a walk in the city center
I really liked the center in Saint Andrews.
The city has beautiful old buildings, churches, small shopping streets, and many shops.
Of course, there are many golf-specific shops: clothing, equipment, souvenirs…
But that’s not all there is to it.
You really get that feeling Scottish small-town atmosphere, With its traditional shops and beautiful facades.
The center is easily explored on foot, and that’s exactly what I recommend you do.
No need for an ultra-packed itinerary: stroll, look at the buildings, visit the small boutiques, and enjoy the atmosphere.
🏌️ The British Golf Museum
If you love golf, don't miss this opportunity! British Golf Museum.
Even if you’re not a big fan, the museum allows you to understand how this sport has evolved over time.
During our visit, I particularly enjoyed discovering the evolution:
- clubs; ;
- bullets; ;
- clothes; ;
- equipment; ;
- of the various practices of golf.
And a big advantage: the museum is located facing the Old Course, by the sea.
During my trip, I found it quite quick to visit and really interesting. It was therefore an easy step to add to our day.
📍 Saint Andrews: practical information
📍 Where? St Andrews, Fife, Scotland
⏱️ How long? 1 minimum day
🚗 Ideal for? A step of the road trip
⛳ Imperative to visit? The Old Course
🏛️ To visit? The Cathedral of Saint Andrews
🎓 Something to discover? The university
🌊 To see? The beaches and the coastline
🏌️ For the golfers? Several courses and the British Golf Museum
FAQ – Saint Andrews
Is Saint Andrews worth a visit?
Yes, even if you’re not a golfer. The city has interesting historical heritage, beautiful beaches, typical Scottish architecture, and a very pleasant atmosphere.
What to do in Saint Andrews in one day?
You can discover the Old Course, visit the ruins of the cathedral, stroll through the historic center, discover the university, enjoy the seaside, and visit the British Golf Museum.
Can you visit the Old Course without playing?
Yes. The course is part of the landscape of Saint Andrews and can be admired from various locations. If you wish to play, the booking conditions are specific and may change.
Is it possible to play golf in Saint Andrews?
Yes. The city has several trails. Access and booking conditions vary depending on the trail: it is therefore advisable to check the official procedures before your trip.
How long does it take to visit Saint Andrews?
One day is enough to discover the main attractions. Golf enthusiasts can of course stay longer to enjoy the various courses.
Find your accommodation in Saint Andrews
Comments
I’m not a fan of this sport, but I think I would enjoy a visit to the museum, especially when you’re in the world capital of golf! I learned a lot about Saint Andrews, I knew about the university and the fact that the royal couple studied there, but that’s all. I think it’s a must-see in Scotland, so that’ll be for next time! Thanks for this discovery!
Capucine and Thibault
8 May 2014
The museum is really nice and quick to visit; it’s super interesting to see the evolution of the clubs, the outfits… And it’s located by the sea, right next to the Old Course, so it’s a must-see!
Marine
13 May 2014
The golfer I am is completely ecstatic! Thank you for this wonderful sharing! It gives me an idea for a gift for my dad!