St Andrews Day Trip: Quick Facts for 2025
Get the essential information at a glance! Here’s a quick summary to help you start planning your perfect day trip from Edinburgh to St Andrews.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Edinburgh | ~50 miles (80 km) |
| Travel Time | 1.5 – 2 hours each way |
| Best Way to Get There | Car (fastest), Train/Bus (scenic & car-free), Guided Tour (easiest) |
| Average Day Trip Cost | £50 – £90 per person (transport, food, basic attractions) |
| Best Time to Visit | May, June, September (good weather, fewer crowds) |
| Must-See Sights | The Old Course, St Andrews Cathedral, West Sands Beach |
How to Get to St Andrews from Edinburgh
Reaching the historic Kingdom of Fife is remarkably straightforward, with several fantastic options to suit your budget, travel style, and schedule. Whether you prefer the freedom of the open road, the comfort of a train, or the ease of a guided tour, getting there is part of the adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to make the journey.
| Method | Duration | Approx. Cost (Return) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 1.5 – 2 hours | £20-£30 (fuel) | Flexible, fastest, scenic route option | Can be stressful, parking is tricky |
| Train + Bus | ~1.5 hours total | £25-£45 | Relaxing, scenic, fast train journey | Requires a change at Leuchars |
| Direct Bus | ~2 hours | £15-£25 | Most budget-friendly, direct | Longest journey time |
| Organized Tour | Full Day (8-9 hours) | £45-£65 | Hassle-free, guide included, extra stops | No flexibility |
Driving to St Andrews from Edinburgh
For those who love flexibility, driving is an excellent choice. The Edinburgh to St Andrews drive time is typically around 90 minutes, making it one of the quickest ways to get there. The main route follows the M90 over the spectacular Queensferry Crossing and then the A92 into Fife. For a more memorable return journey, consider taking the scenic Fife Coastal Route (A917), which winds through charming fishing villages.
Parking in St Andrews:
A word of warning: central parking can be limited and is mostly pay-and-display. To avoid frustration, we recommend arriving before 10 AM to secure a spot. Good options include the Argyle Street and St Mary’s Place car parks, which are a short walk from the main attractions.
Taking the Train from Edinburgh to St Andrews
Many visitors ask, “Is there a train from Edinburgh to St Andrews?” The answer is almost! While St Andrews doesn’t have its own station, the journey is simple and scenic. It’s a two-step process:
- Take a frequent ScotRail train from Edinburgh Waverley to Leuchars station. This leg of the journey takes about 1 hour and offers beautiful views.
- From Leuchars station, hop on a connecting bus (the Stagecoach 99 series is very regular) or grab a taxi for the final 10-15 minute ride into St Andrews town centre.
Top Tip: Book your train tickets in advance on the ScotRail website to get the best fares.
Taking the Bus from Edinburgh to St Andrews
If you’re watching your wallet, the bus is your best friend. The Stagecoach Express service (routes X59/X60) runs directly from Edinburgh Bus Station to St Andrews Bus Station. While it’s the longest option at around 2 hours, it’s incredibly cost-effective and means you can sit back, relax, and watch the Scottish countryside roll by without any changes.
Guided Day Tours from Edinburgh to St Andrews
For the ultimate stress-free experience, consider one of the many excellent day tours from Edinburgh to St Andrews. This is the perfect option if you want to leave the planning to the experts. A knowledgeable guide will handle all the transport and provide fascinating commentary along the way. Plus, many tours include bonus stops at other enchanting locations, such as the fishing village of Anstruther or the historic Falkland Palace.
Top 5 Things to Do on a St Andrews Day Trip
St Andrews is a compact town packed with incredible sights. Here are the five absolute must-do activities to make your day trip unforgettable.
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Walk in the Footsteps of Golfing Legends at the Old Course
You can’t visit St Andrews without paying homage to the “Home of Golf.” Even if you’re not a fan, the history and atmosphere of the Old Course are captivating. Making one of the best day trips from edinburgh to st andrews golf course is a must for any enthusiast.
How to Experience the Old Course:
Playing a round is nearly impossible on a day trip, but you can still have an amazing experience:
- The Swilcan Bridge: Get that iconic photo on the small stone bridge crossing the Swilcan Burn on the 18th hole. It’s a true piece of sporting history.
- Sunday Walk: On most Sundays (when no tournaments are scheduled), the course transforms into a public park. This unique tradition allows you to walk the hallowed fairways for free!
- World Golf Museum: Dive into the history of the game at this excellent museum. (Price: ~£12, Hours: 9:30 AM – 5 PM).
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Explore the Majestic Ruins of St Andrews Cathedral
Once the largest church in Scotland, these breathtaking ruins are a testament to the town’s religious importance. Wander through the atmospheric graveyard and be sure to climb St Rule’s Tower for the most stunning panoramic views of St Andrews, the coastline, and the surrounding countryside.
Details: Price: ~£7.50 adult (includes tower access). Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (summer), shorter in winter. Managed by Historic Scotland. -
Uncover Dark Secrets at St Andrews Castle
Perched dramatically on a cliff edge, St Andrews Castle has a bloody and fascinating history. Explore the infamous “bottle dungeon,” a grim medieval prison carved from solid rock, and crawl through the 16th-century mine and counter-mine, a siege tunnel that provides a unique glimpse into the warfare of the past.
Details: Price: ~£10 adult. Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (summer). Consider the Historic Scotland Explorer Pass if you plan to visit both the castle and the cathedral. -
Recreate “Chariots of Fire” on West Sands Beach
Instantly recognisable from the iconic opening scene of the film “Chariots of Fire,” West Sands Beach is a glorious two-mile stretch of golden sand. It’s the perfect place for a bracing walk, with incredible views back towards the town’s famous skyline. Best of all, it’s completely free to access.
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Wander the Cobbled Streets of Scotland’s Oldest University
The University of St Andrews, founded in 1413, is woven into the fabric of the town. You might even recognise it as the place where Prince William met Kate Middleton! Take a stroll through the beautiful St Salvator’s Quadrangle and feel the centuries of academic history around you. For a fun stop, grab a coffee at the Northpoint Cafe, which famously claims to be “where Kate met Wills.”
Sample 1-Day St Andrews Itinerary from Edinburgh
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Here is a concrete, time-based plan that packs in all the highlights for one of the best 1 day trips from Edinburgh.
A Perfect One Day in St Andrews Itinerary
- 8:30 AM: Depart from Edinburgh by your chosen method (car, train, or bus).
- 10:00 AM: Arrive in St Andrews. Head straight to the Cathedral and climb St Rule’s Tower to get your bearings with a fantastic view.
- 11:30 AM: It’s a short walk to the dramatic cliff-top St Andrews Castle. Explore the dungeons and siege mines.
- 1:00 PM: Time for lunch! Grab some award-winning fish and chips from The Tailend for a classic seaside meal.
- 2:00 PM: Make your pilgrimage to the “Home of Golf.” Walk to the Old Course, get your essential photo on the Swilcan Bridge, and peek into the golf shops.
- 3:30 PM: Wander through the historic university grounds and then reward yourself with a scoop (or two!) of delicious ice cream from the legendary Jannettas Gelateria.
- 4:30 PM: Take a final, relaxing stroll along the famous West Sands Beach.
- 5:30 PM: Begin your journey back to Edinburgh, filled with memories of a fantastic day.
Where to Eat in St Andrews (For Every Budget)
From quick bites to gourmet meals, St Andrews has a food scene to match its world-class sights. Here are a few top picks.
Budget-Friendly Bites (£)
- The Tailend Restaurant and Fish Bar: You can’t visit the Scottish coast without trying fish and chips, and this is one of the best places to do it. Takeaway or sit-in.
- Jannettas Gelateria: A true St Andrews institution with over 50 flavours of homemade ice cream and sorbet. An essential stop.
Mid-Range Meals (££)
- Forgan’s: A lively and atmospheric restaurant with a modern Scottish menu, famous for its weekend ceilidhs.
- The Adamson: A stylish brasserie and cocktail bar that’s perfect for a slightly more upscale lunch without breaking the bank.
A Special Treat (£££)
- Seafood Ristorante: For a truly memorable meal, this stunning glass-walled restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and serves exquisite, locally sourced seafood.
Insider Tips for Your Day Trip
Make your trip even smoother with these practical tips from those in the know.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven cobblestone streets. Your feet will thank you!
- Dress in Layers: The coastal weather is famously changeable. A waterproof jacket is a non-negotiable, even if the sun is shining when you leave Edinburgh.
- Visit on a Sunday: This is the best day to experience the Old Course, as it’s typically open for the public to walk on.
- Book Transport in Advance: You can save a significant amount of money on train tickets by booking them a few weeks ahead of time.
- Consider an Explorer Pass: If you plan to visit both the Cathedral and Castle, a Historic Scotland Explorer Pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets.
- Arrive Early: Beat the tour buses to the main attractions and find parking more easily by arriving before 10:30 AM.
St Andrews Day Trip Budget Breakdown (2025)
Wondering how much to set aside? Here’s an estimated per-person cost breakdown to help you plan your spending.
| Item | Budget Traveller | Mid-Range Traveller |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | £20 (Bus) | £35 (Train) |
| Attractions | £17.50 (Castle & Cathedral) | £29.50 (+ Golf Museum) |
| Food & Drink | £15 (Takeaway & coffee) | £40 (Pub lunch & ice cream) |
| TOTAL (Approx.) | ~£52.50 | ~£104.50 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to the most common questions about planning your trip.
Can you do a day trip from Edinburgh to St Andrews?
Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the most popular and rewarding day trips you can take from Edinburgh. The journey is less than 2 hours each way, which leaves you with a full day to explore the town’s compact and easily walkable centre.
Is a day trip to St Andrews worth it?
Without a doubt. St Andrews offers a world-class combination of sporting heritage with its legendary golf courses, ancient history at the castle and cathedral, academic prestige as home to Scotland’s oldest university, and beautiful, bracing coastal scenery.
Is there a shuttle from Edinburgh to St Andrews?
While there isn’t an official dedicated “shuttle,” the Stagecoach Express X59 bus service acts as a direct and highly affordable link between the two. Furthermore, the numerous companies offering guided day tours from Edinburgh to St Andrews function as an all-inclusive shuttle service, often with added commentary and stops.
Which is the best day trip from Edinburgh?
While “best” is always a matter of personal taste, St Andrews is a top contender for its unique blend of attractions and easy accessibility. For a trip that combines history, culture, and scenery without the much longer travel times of a Highlands tour, St Andrews is very hard to beat.
TL;DR: The Quick Guide to St Andrews
In a hurry? Here are the key takeaways for your day trip to St Andrews from Edinburgh:
- Getting there: The train/bus combo is fast and relaxing (~1.5 hrs). Driving is quickest but parking is tough. The direct bus is cheapest (~2 hrs).
- Top 3 Sights: Don’t miss the Old Course (walk it on a Sunday!), the Cathedral ruins (climb the tower!), and the dramatic Castle.
- Must-Do: Get a photo on the Swilcan Bridge, walk West Sands Beach, and grab ice cream from Jannettas.
- Top Tip: Wear comfy shoes and a waterproof jacket. The weather changes fast!
