St Andrews is a town that practically breathes history, golf, and academic tradition. Its narrow streets and iconic landmarks make it a compelling place to explore, but for those wanting a deeper connection, the Tours & Experiences here are second to none. Whether you’re a golf fanatic, history lover, or just someone eager to see the town through local eyes, there’s an option that fits. We especially like the St Andrews: Top Sights Guided Walking Tour for its rich storytelling and in-depth look at key sights, or the Old Course History Tour for golf lovers craving insider tales.
From private family explorations to bike adventures and hands-on workshops, St Andrews offers a surprising variety of ways to experience its charm. So whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning a longer stay, our top picks will help you find the perfect tour.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad range of tours and experiences that highlight St Andrews’ best features. You’ll find guided walking tours that unlock the secrets of the town’s landmarks, golf-focused history tours led by pros, scenic bike rides through the countryside, and even craft workshops for a touch of local artistry. Each offers a different perspective and level of activity, so read on to find your ideal match.
1. St Andrews: Top Sights Guided Walking Tour
This highly-rated guided walking tour takes about 1.5 hours and offers a comprehensive look at St Andrews’ most iconic sights. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll stroll through the town’s historic streets, learning about its links to golf, royalty, and university traditions. This tour is particularly good at connecting the dots between all the landmarks, giving you context that’s often missing when wandering on your own.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of well-known sights like the Old Course and St Andrews Castle with lesser-known spots like the Statue of Hamish McHamish and the West Port Gate. The guide shares stories that bring these sites to life, making history feel relevant and fun. Reviewers praise Verity for her engaging style and witty commentary, calling her “a pro” and “very knowledgeable.” This tour is perfect if you want a solid overview that covers the essential sights while offering some hidden gems.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative walk that covers all the key sights in a friendly pace—ideal for first-timers who want to get their bearings and learn some local lore.
2. St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer
For around $22, the Old Course History Tour offers a 1 hour 15 minutes deep dive into the world-famous golf course that’s been called the “Home of Golf.” Led by a former caddie who worked at the course in the 1980s, this tour provides insider stories about The Open Championship, Nike’s marketing campaigns, and celebrities like Sean Connery who have played here.
What makes this tour unique is the chance to walk across the famous fairway of the Old Course—a rare opportunity that golf fans will appreciate. The guide’s personal experience adds authenticity, and guests often mention how informative and funny Richard is. The tour is small, which means you get plenty of individual attention and the chance to ask questions about golf’s history in Scotland.
This experience appeals most to golf enthusiasts but also suits visitors curious about the course’s influence beyond the sport. Since golf is such a defining feature of St Andrews, this tour enriches your visit with stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
Bottom Line: A must for golf fans and curious visitors alike, offering an intimate look at the game’s most iconic course.
3. St Andrews: Islander® Harris Tweed® Handbag Workshop
If you’re into crafts or want a memorable souvenir, the Harris Tweed handbag workshop is a fun, hands-on experience. Over an hour, you’ll learn to create your own bespoke Harris Tweed® handbag, guided by friendly instructors using traditional techniques.
Participants appreciate the approachable instructors who help with every step, ensuring even craft-challenged folks can produce a stylish, unique bag. Making your own purse in just 60 minutes makes for a satisfying afternoon, and you get to take home a truly personal keepsake. Reviewers mention how enjoyable and social the activity is, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.
This workshop is perfect if you’re interested in Scottish textiles or want a creative break from sightseeing. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a tactile experience and leaving with a tangible, handmade item.
Bottom Line: A diverse activity that combines local craft with personal creativity, ideal for craft lovers and souvenir hunters.
4. St. Andrews: The Essential Guided Bike & E Bike Tour
This guided bike tour offers a 3-hour pedal through St Andrews’ historic and scenic areas. The tour covers landmarks like the ruins of St Andrews Castle and Cathedral, the town’s coastal views, and the world’s oldest golf course.
What makes this experience special is riding through a mix of historic sites and peaceful countryside, including a ride along the coast and through Lumbo Glen. The guide is knowledgeable about the town’s history and local stories, making the ride both fun and educational. Guests who appreciate a bit of exercise combined with sightseeing will find this tour a perfect fit.
Since it’s a guided ride, it suits those who want to explore at a relaxed pace without worrying about navigation. The e-bike option makes it accessible for all fitness levels, and the scenery is breathtaking.
Bottom Line: An active way to see the town’s highlights, ideal for travelers who enjoy cycling and want a rundown.
5. St. Andrews Scenic Stroll: A Private Walking Exploration
For a personalized experience, the private walking tour offers two hours exploring St Andrews with your own guide. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a tailored visit, with a focus on the town’s most picturesque spots and hidden corners.
This tour hits highlights like the Old Course, St Andrews University, and the cathedral ruins, but also allows for customized stops based on your interests. It’s a small-group experience, so you get undivided attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The guide’s local insights make the history come alive, and the private format means you can dig deeper into topics that intrigue you.
Ideal for those who prefer a flexible schedule, this tour is best suited for couples, families, or small groups who want a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private tour that offers a personal way to see and learn about St Andrews’ most photogenic and historic sites.
6. Guernsey: Half-Day Island Shore Excursion Tour
While not in Scotland, this half-day island tour offers a unique look at Guernsey’s attractions. It covers the Little Chapel, Pleinmont Point, and German gun battery, giving you a taste of island life and history in just 3.5 hours.
The tour is highly rated for its friendly driver/guide who shares plenty of local knowledge. Highlights include visiting Pleinmont’s stunning views and the restored German gun battery, which adds historical depth. The small group size makes for a relaxed experience, and the overall value is good considering the brief duration.
This experience suits travelers with limited time who want a quick but rundown of Guernsey’s scenic and historical highlights. The reviews confirm it’s a pleasant way to get a first impression of the island.
Bottom Line: A concise, informative excursion perfect for cruise visitors or short-term travelers.
7. Edinburgh: St. Andrews and Fife Day Trip with Sheepdog
A full-day adventure from Edinburgh, this trip combines Scotland’s stunning coastlines, historic towns, and a sheepdog demonstration. Covering St Andrews, Fife villages, and Falkland, it’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive taste of the region in one day.
The highlight is the sheepdog demonstration, offering an authentic look at rural Scottish life. The tour also includes crossing the Forth Road Bridge and viewing the iconic Old Course. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the driver-guide shares stories of local legends and history.
This trip suits travelers who want a relaxed pace, a mix of sightseeing and cultural experiences, and the convenience of a guided day trip from Edinburgh.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for those wanting to combine sightseeing, local culture, and scenic drives in one day.
8. St Andrews: Hickory Golf Club Restoration Workshop
History and craftsmanship collide in this hickory golf club workshop. Over two hours, you’ll learn how clubs from over 100 years ago were made and restored, trying traditional techniques alongside experts.
Participants praise the expert-led instruction and the chance to personalize their own hickory club, choosing colors and materials. The experience includes testing your work in a simulator and on a putting green. Guests often leave with a restored, personalized club and new appreciation for vintage golf equipment.
This activity is perfect for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone interested in Scottish craftsmanship. Since it’s hands-on, it appeals to those who learn best by doing.
Bottom Line: An engaging, behind-the-scenes look at vintage golf club restoration, ideal for craft lovers and history enthusiasts.
9. St Andrews: Private Tour with a Local Family
For a truly personal touch, the private family tour offers an authentic, family-driven experience. Driven by stories and shared memories, this tour provides insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.
The tour is customizable, depending on your interests. The family hosts share stories about golf, university life, and local traditions, making it a warm, engaging experience. It’s ideal for small groups who want a genuine connection with locals and a flexible itinerary based on your preferences.
Guests value the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to get off the typical tourist trail while learning about local life from a family that’s been part of the community for generations.
Bottom Line: Personalized, family-run tours that provide an authentic, intimate look at St Andrews’ life and history.
10. St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife from Edinburgh
This full-day trip explores the medieval fishing villages, Falkland, and the historic town of St Andrews. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a broad taste of Fife’s coastal charm.
The journey covers scenic fishing hamlets, picturesque streets, and historic sites, making for a relaxed day away from city bustle. The itinerary balances sightseeing with time to wander and soak in the countryside atmosphere.
Ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see multiple highlights of Fife, this tour combines history, coastal scenery, and local flavor into one seamless day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a diverse, scenic day exploring Fife’s towns and coastlines.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and activity level. If you love history and storytelling, the Top Sights Guided Walking Tour offers a rundown. Golf enthusiasts should prioritize the Old Course History Tour, while craft lovers will enjoy creating their own Harris Tweed handbag.
Active travelers might opt for the bike tour, whereas those craving a personal touch will find the private family tour most appealing. For those short on time, the Guernsey Shore Excursion and Fife day trips offer convenient options.
Booking early is advisable for popular tours like the guided walking tour and bike tours, especially during peak seasons.
In summary, whether you’re after history, golf, local crafts, scenic rides, or personal stories, St Andrews’ selection of tours has you covered. For first-time visitors, the guided walking tour is a great way to get oriented, while golf fans should not miss the Old Course history. For a more intimate or active experience, the private tours and bike rides offer excellent avenues to explore this charming Scottish town. Booking ahead ensures your spot on these memorable journeys—so plan now and enjoy discovering all that St Andrews has to offer.