St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History

St Andrews is renowned as the birthplace of golf, a storied town that beckons visitors to explore its rich history and legendary links. Through guided tours, travelers can enjoy the hallowed grounds of the Old Course, tracing the footsteps of golfing greats. But the town’s appeal extends far beyond the fairways, with its impressive cathedral and castle offering glimpses into Scotland’s captivating past. For those seeking to uncover the multifaceted charm of this remarkable destination, St Andrews Tours provides an enlightening experience that…

Key Points

• Explore the historic town of St Andrews, home to the oldest golf course in the world and Scotland’s oldest university founded in 1413.
• Visit the impressive ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and Castle, providing insights into the town’s tumultuous past.
• Experience the iconic Swilcan Bridge and walk the challenging terrain of the Old Course, witnessing the evolution of golf over centuries.
• Tour logistics include starting at Hotel du Vin St Andrews, with group sizes limited to 20 for a personalized experience.
• Customer feedback indicates a 4.9 out of 5 overall rating with a 99% recommendation rate for the St Andrews tours.

The Home of Golf

St Andrews is widely regarded as the "Home of Golf," a moniker that reflects the city’s deep-rooted connection to the sport.

The Old Course, first played in the 15th century, is the oldest golf course in the world. Situated along the North Sea, St Andrews has played host to the British Open Championship a record 29 times.

The city’s golf heritage is further cemented by the presence of Scotland’s oldest university, founded in 1413, and the ruins of the medieval St Andrews Cathedral, both of which contribute to the town’s historic and picturesque ambiance.

Exploring St Andrews

Beyond the city’s storied golfing heritage, visitors to St Andrews are treated to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions that bring the town’s storied past to life.

At the majestic St Andrews Cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland, travelers can explore the impressive ruins and learn about the site’s tumultuous history.

The neighboring St Andrews Castle offers stunning coastal views and insights into the country’s religious conflicts.

The town’s medieval streets also lead to Scotland’s oldest university, where students have studied for over 600 years.

These captivating sites provide a well-rounded experience beyond the hallowed links.

St Andrews Cathedral and Castle

The majestic St Andrews Cathedral once stood as the largest church in Scotland, its towering spires dominating the coastal skyline. Founded in the 12th century, the cathedral’s impressive ruins now offer a glimpse into the grandeur of its past.

Nearby, the St Andrews Castle served as the residence of the powerful Bishops of St Andrews. This medieval fortress features an intriguing mine and countermine system, as well as the "bottle dungeon" where religious prisoners were once held.

Visitors can explore the castle’s crumbling walls and imagine the political and religious conflicts that once unfolded within its halls.

The Old Course and Swilcan Bridge

Steeped in golfing lore, the iconic Old Course at St Andrews is a hallowed ground for the sport’s devotees. As the oldest golf course in the world, it has witnessed the evolution of the game over centuries. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of legends while crossing the famous Swilcan Bridge, a cherished landmark that has immortalized many a golfer’s triumph and defeat. The course’s challenging layout, with its renowned pot bunkers and undulating greens, continues to test the skills of both amateur and professional players alike.

Hole	Par	Yardage
1	4	376
2	5	452
3	4	403
4	4	465

Golf History and Evolution

As the game of golf has evolved over the centuries, the Old Course at St Andrews has borne witness to its transformative journey.

From the simple, rudimentary equipment and techniques of the past to the advanced technologies and strategies of modern play, the iconic links have seen it all.

Golfers come from around the world to experience the hallowed grounds, walk the Swilcan Bridge, and connect with the rich history that permeates every fairway and green.

This tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the captivating evolution of the sport, as told through the legendary landscape of St Andrews.

Tour Logistics and Meeting Point

One of the key aspects of the St Andrews Tours experience is the convenient meeting point and logistical planning. The tours start right outside the front entrance of the Hotel du Vin St Andrews, located at 40 The Scores in the heart of the town.

Punctuality is required, as the tour groups depart on time. The tour concludes at the iconic Swilcan Bridge, 17 The Links, St Andrews KY16 9JE.

Group sizes are kept small, with a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With clear meeting instructions and a well-planned itinerary, the St Andrews Tours provide a seamless and enjoyable historical exploration.

Tour Inclusions and Conditions

The St Andrews Tours provide a comprehensive and curated experience for visitors. Included is the services of a professional English-speaking guide who shares their deep knowledge of local history and golf lore.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, offering flexibility. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with walking difficulties, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues.

Children under 5 can join for free, but the experience isn’t recommended for those under 2 or with baby strollers. Travelers must have moderate physical fitness to fully enjoy the tour’s pace and activities.

Customer Feedback and Pricing

Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s clear that St Andrews Tours provides an exceptional experience for visitors. A quick look at the customer feedback shows why:

Metric	Result
Overall Rating	4.9 out of 5
Recommendation Rate	99%
Highlights	Local history, golf lore, enjoyable pace, dining recommendations

At just £17 per person, the tour offers tremendous value. Customers can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Whether you’re a golfer or not, this rich historical experience is not to be missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Tour Include Transportation to and From St Andrews?

No, the tour does not include transportation to and from St Andrews. Travelers are responsible for making their own way to the meeting point at the Hotel du Vin St Andrews, where the tour begins.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the duration. However, the tour ends at the Swilcan Bridge, allowing visitors to further explore the Old Course and town at their own pace after the guided portion concludes.

Can We Request a Private Tour for Our Group?

Yes, private tours can be arranged for groups. Travelers can request a private St Andrews tour to have a more personalized experience with their own guide and flexible scheduling to meet their group’s needs.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Golf Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring your own golf equipment. The tour doesn’t include golf play, so there’s no need to bring clubs or other gear. Just come prepared for a comfortable walking tour of St Andrews’ historic sites and golf landmarks.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the St Andrews tour offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. They provide a 10% discount on the standard tour price for those who can provide valid student or senior identification at the time of booking or during check-in.

The Sum Up

St Andrews Tours offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and renowned golf heritage of this captivating Scottish town. From the iconic Old Course to the awe-inspiring St Andrews Cathedral and Castle, the tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience that leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable destination. With small group sizes and high customer satisfaction, it’s a must-visit for any golf enthusiast or history buff exploring the heart of Scotland.