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.
St Giles ApartHotel by Joivy
The Scotsman Hotel
First Lasswade Road House

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near University of St. Andrews

Rusacks St Andrews

Rusacks St Andrews

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

David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation

3 out of 5
Buchanan Gardens, St. Andrews, Scotland
David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation
Seaton House

Seaton House

5 out of 5
Seaton House, 76 The Scores, St. Andrews, Scotland
Seaton House
Lawhead Road is a beautifully renovated, pet-friendly home in St. Andrews, offering a peaceful retre

Lawhead Road is a beautifully renovated, pet-friendly home in St. Andrews, offering a peaceful retre

St Andrews
Lawhead Road is a beautifully renovated, pet-friendly home in St. Andrews, offering a peaceful retre
No1. Apartments & Bedrooms St Andrews - St Mary’s

No1. Apartments & Bedrooms St Andrews - St Mary’s

4 out of 5
Inchcape house-Saint Marys Place, St. Andrews, Scotland
No1. Apartments & Bedrooms St Andrews - St Mary’s
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
Berchem Villa

Berchem Villa

St Andrews
Berchem Villa
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

Discover a wealth of activities near the University of St. Andrews, including world-renowned golf courses, scenic outdoor experiences, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Don't miss the chance to play at iconic golf venues, explore the best attractions through engaging walking tours, and secure tee times for an unforgettable golfing experience. St. Andrews offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and recreational activities for every visitor.

Shopping

In St. Andrews, enjoy local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Wellgate Shopping Centre, located 17.7km away, offers a vibrant mix of stores and entertainment. For a bigger experience, Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre is 45.1km away with even more options.

Recreation

Experience the historic Old Course at St Andrews, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, just 1.4km from the university. For relaxation, head to Craigtoun Country Park, 3.2km away, offering serene walks and beautiful gardens perfect for unwinding.

Adventure

The Fife Coastal Path, located 9.7km from the University of St. Andrews, offers breathtaking hiking with stunning coastal views. Experience the thrill of the Scottish Clay Shooting Centre, situated 8.0km away, perfect for those looking to test their aim. For a scenic hike, explore Norman's Law Walk, 16.1km away.

Nightlife

The nightlife in St. Andrews offers a unique blend of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Dundee Repertory Theatre, just 16.1km away, or unleash your adventurous spirit at Battlefield Live Dundee, located 17.7km from the university. Don’t miss the captivating Mills Observatory for a stellar experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near University of St. Andrews

Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a relaxing day at the beach, the University of St. Andrews and its surroundings have something for everyone. Explore the stunning St. Andrews Castle, enjoy the picturesque beaches, or visit the local art museum. With a variety of attractions nearby, including the historic sights of St. Andrew and the charming town of St. Andrews, your vacation promises to be both enriching and enjoyable.

  • St. Andrew's Castle: Situated only 1.6km from the University, this historic castle offers a romantic atmosphere and rich cultural significance. Explore its intriguing ruins and learn about its role in Scotland's tumultuous history while enjoying stunning coastal views.
  • The Scores: A picturesque street located 1.6km away, The Scores boasts vibrant city vibes and breathtaking views of the North Sea. Stroll along the waterfront pathway, where you can soak in the charm of St. Andrews and its scenic landscapes.
  • University of Dundee: Just 16.1km from St. Andrews, this historic university features beautiful architecture and a lively cultural scene. Engage with its art galleries and museums, showcasing a blend of tradition and modern scholarship.

Best time to go to University of St. Andrews

The best time to visit University of St. Andrews can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of St. Andrews falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of St. Andrews falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 RainMostly 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

To save on your trip to the University of St. Andrews, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Aim to stay on a Tuesday, the cheapest night, and use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore the area on foot to avoid public transport costs while enjoying the sights.

  • 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 preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on expenses by combining your hotel stay at the University of St. Andrews with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.