University of St. Andrews Tours and Activities

University of St. Andrews showing street scenes and heritage elements
University of St. Andrews which includes interior views
University of St. Andrews featuring interior views
University of St. Andrews
University of St. Andrews showing a house, heritage elements and street scenes


Stroll through the scenic campus and gaze up at the historic buildings that decorate this prestigious university from the 1400s.

Steeped in tradition, the University of St. Andrews is among the oldest in the English-speaking world. The academic institution is known for its impressive buildings spread around fields and floral displays. Visit its museums to see collections that inspire the students of this venerable university.

Read the various plaques giving context to the buildings. See the Schools and United College, which was one of the first parts of the university to be built. Enter the majestic structures to see the old-fashioned lecture theaters and dining halls. These buildings stand around St. Salvator’s Quadrangle. Access the large plaza via a hidden archway beneath the tower of St. Salvator’s Chapel.

Enter this religious site and appreciate the tranquil setting. Its black-and-white tiled floor, wooden wall fixtures and religious artworks generate an inviting atmosphere. Visit the other collegiate chapel of St. Leonard’s.

Relax with a drink at a campus restaurant and watch the students and professors go by. Discover the café that claims to be the spot where Prince William and Kate Middleton first met as students.

Imagine being a scholar living in the university halls. Note the diversity of architectural styles for the student accommodations, from brutalist to Gothic Revival.

Spend some time in the Museum of the University of St. Andrews, which has more than 112,000 items. Its four galleries display items ranging from medieval maces and stained-glass windows to golf relics. See natural history exhibits in the Bell Pettigrew Museum and university history in the Gateway Galleries.

Learn about the university’s long-lived traditions. Some students wear distinctive red gowns the way they wear them indicates their years of studies. Hear about Raisin Weekend, when first-year “bejants” present a gift to their third-year academic “parents.”

Visit the university between morning and late afternoon on any day year-round. The University of St. Andrews campus is spread out across the center of the city. Numerous bus stops line the streets at the various entrances to the university.

Plan a trip to see University of St. Andrews

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Silverwood Luxury Lodges & Bistro Barn
First Lasswade Road House
The Scotsman Hotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near University of St. Andrews

Old Course Hotel

Old Course Hotel

5 out of 5
Old Station Road, St. Andrews, Scotland
Old Course Hotel
Rufflets St Andrews

Rufflets St Andrews

4 out of 5
Strathkinness Low Road, Fife, St. Andrews, Scotland
Rufflets St Andrews
Rusacks St Andrews

Rusacks St Andrews

5 out of 5
Pilmour Links, St. Andrews, Scotland
Rusacks St Andrews
David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation

David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation

3 out of 5
Buchanan Gardens, St. Andrews, Scotland
David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation
Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews

Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews

4 out of 5
40 The Scores, St. Andrews, Scotland
Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews
Seaton House

Seaton House

5 out of 5
Seaton House, 76 The Scores, St. Andrews, Scotland
Seaton House
THE SPACE TO STAY

THE SPACE TO STAY

Kilrymont Rd., St. Andrews, Scotland
THE SPACE TO STAY
Berchem Villa

Berchem Villa

St Andrews
Berchem Villa
Kinnettles Hotel and Spa

Kinnettles Hotel and Spa

5 out of 5
127 North Street, St. Andrews, Scotland
Kinnettles Hotel and Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of St. Andrews

When visiting the University of St. Andrews, don't miss out on the chance to enjoy walking tours that explore the historic town, or take a break at the beautiful beaches nearby. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the world-famous Old Course and various golf courses offering tee times. Additionally, indulge in a relaxing spa experience to unwind after your adventures in this charming Scottish town.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, the Wellgate Shopping Centre is 17.7km away, offering a vibrant mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment. For more options, consider the St James Quarter, 48.3km away, or the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, 45.1km away, both featuring diverse shopping experiences.

Recreation

The Old Course at St Andrews invites you to enjoy a classic golfing experience with stunning views and a rich history, located 1.4km from the university. St Andrews Bay, 4.8km away, offers a beautiful outdoor golfing experience. For relaxation, visit Craigtoun Country Park, 3.2km away, perfect for wellness and tranquility.

Adventure

Explore the Fife Coastal Path for a scenic hike, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventure vibes, located 9.7km from the university. For a family-friendly experience, visit Elie Holiday Park, a campground 16.1km away, perfect for outdoor fun. Don't miss the Lochs and Glens North Cycle Route, 14.8km away, ideal for cycling enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In St. Andrews, the Dundee Repertory Theatre offers a romantic cultural experience just 16.1km away, while The Fun Factory, 17.7km away, provides thrilling arcade adventures for families. The Mills Observatory, also 17.7km away, captivates visitors with its family-friendly planetarium shows.

Find the best attractions near University of St. Andrews

During your visit to the University of St. Andrews, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the historic St. Andrews Castle and the impressive St. Andrews Cathedral. Enjoy the beautiful beach nearby and take a leisurely stroll through the urban park, perfect for outdoor experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the charming streets of St. Andrews and the prestigious St. Andrews University, which is rich in history and academic heritage.

  • St. Andrew's Castle: Explore the romantic ruins of this historic castle, steeped in culture and overlooking the stunning coastline. With its fascinating history and dramatic scenery, it’s a perfect spot for capturing memories.
  • The Scores: Stroll along this picturesque street, renowned for its breathtaking views of the North Sea. The urban atmosphere is lively, making it ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying local cafés.
  • University of Dundee: Visit this historic institution, known for its commitment to education and culture. Its beautiful campus and vibrant student life offer a unique glimpse into Scotland's academic heritage.

Best time to go to University of St. Andrews

Visitor numbers around University of St. Andrews is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit University of St. Andrews is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April44.8°F (7.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of St. Andrews

When visiting the University of St. Andrews, consider enjoying free activities like West Sands, The Scores, and Craigtoun Country Park. To save on accommodation, plan your trip between January and March for lower prices, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest nights to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to find great rates by filtering for eco-certified hotels and package deals that include flights and activities, ensuring a budget-friendly vacation.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of St. Andrews are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around University of St. Andrews is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of St. Andrews is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around University of St. Andrews is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at the University of St. Andrews with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.