A Day in St Andrews: Whisky, Waves & a 'wee' Ceilidh

Start Your Day with Coastal Views & Coffee

St Andrews is a town that charms from the moment you arrive! Begin your day with a coffee from a local favourite like Taste or Mitchell’s Deli, before heading for a bracing walk along West Sands Beach. With views stretching across the water and the iconic Old Course beside you, it’s a magical start to your day. You can also walk from West Sands to East Sands along the coast with gorgeous views of the ruins along the way!

Fancy a Dip or a Paddle?

Feeling adventurous? Head to Blown Away Adventures at West Sands for a morning of surfing or paddleboarding. This family-run business is a local gem, offering exciting activities for all ages and levels- wetsuits provided! It's the perfect way to shake off the cobwebs!

Lunchtime Bucket List Stop: Toastie Shack at East Sands

After your ocean adventure or beach stroll, swing by the Toastie Shack at East Sands- a cult favourite with locals and visitors alike. Expect overflowing toasties, creamy hot chocolates, and friendly vibes. Bring your appetite and your camera!

Add a Distillery Experience to Your Day

Kingsbarns Distillery- Just a Short Trip from Town

A 15-minute drive/ taxi or scenic bus ride from St Andrews, Kingsbarns Distillery offers guided whisky tours and tastings in a beautiful converted farm steading.

• Getting there:

  • Bus #95 runs hourly from St Andrews to Kingsbarns (get off at Cambo Lodge- 2-minute walk).

  • Taxi takes around 15 minutes and costs- £20.

  • Seasonal shuttle service may be available from St Andrews- check ahead with the distillery or Visitor Centre.

    
    

    

    
    

Eden Mill – Opening Later in 2025

The brand-new Eden Mill distillery and visitor centre is set to open later this year at Guardbridge, just outside of St Andrews. You’ll literally pass it on your way in or out of town if travelling by car or public transport via Leuchars, making it a super convenient stop once open. Watch this space- it will soon be one of Scotland’s most exciting new spirits experiences.

Drinks with a View

If you’re looking to unwind with a scenic drink, try one of these gems:

• Rusacks Hotel Rooftop- views over the 18th hole

• Hotel du Vin- cosy, classic, and perfect for a G&T

• The Old Course Hotel’s Jigger Inn- pub charm, iconic location

  

  
  

Dinner in Town

St Andrews isn’t short on great food. Book a table at:

• Forgan’s- Scottish classics with a twist, warm atmosphere

• The Adamson- modern brasserie with cocktails to match

• The Rav- casual, lively and great for comfort food

  
  

Make a Night of It: Ceilidh & Optional Stay

If you’re in town on a Saturday, Forgan’s hosts a free ceilidh at 10.30pm- live music, dancing, and a lot of fun.

Make it a full St Andrews experience by staying overnight:

• Rusacks for golf-lovers

• Hotel du Vin for boutique charm

• Old Course Hotel for a touch of glam

• Fairmont for some out of town countryside views with that touch of luxury

• Andrean Links properties are also a good option- only 200 yards from the Old Course!

  
  

  

How to Get to St Andrews: With or Without a Car

By Car: St Andrews is around 1 hour 30 minutes from Edinburgh and just over 2 hours from Glasgow. Parking is available at several town centre car parks, including Bruce Embankment and Petheram Bridge. Note that spaces can fill up quickly in peak season.

By Train & Bus (Car-Free Option): You don’t need a car to enjoy St Andrews. Take a train to Leuchars, then a connecting Stagecoach bus or 10-minute taxi ride into town. Once you arrive, most places are walkable.

Plan Your Next Sip with Us

Sip Seekers helps you discover the best distillery and drinks experiences across Scotland- whether you’re in a city, by the sea, or in the Highlands. Explore more adventures now!