St Andrews is one of those places that is bigger in reputation than in size, and then turns out to live up to it. The medieval town on Fife's North Sea coast is the home of golf, with the Old Course running right to the edge of the streets, and of the oldest university in Scotland, founded in the early fifteenth century. Its ruined cathedral, once the largest church in Scotland, stands above the harbour with St Rule's Tower and the cliffs, and the castle ruins sit on a headland nearby. The long West Sands beach is the one the runners cross in the film Chariots of Fire. This day tour from Glasgow crosses the country to St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife in about eight to nine hours, taking in the town and some of the fishing villages of the East Neuk coast. It suits golf fans, history lovers, and anyone who likes the idea of a seaside day with a Scottish flavour that differs from the Highlands. The coach does the driving, and the guide fills the journey with the history of Fife, from the Picts to the Pilgrim Fathers.
Practical details
The day lasts eight to nine hours from Glasgow. Check the tour page for the exact route, since some departures include the Fife fishing villages and others add stops such as a castle or famous landmark. You usually have free time in St Andrews for lunch and wandering, so bring a card or cash and decide in advance whether you want to pay to enter the cathedral and castle or just walk the town. Weather on the east coast can be bracing even in summer, so a windproof layer is wise.
What to expect
A long drive each way, a wander round the Old Course and the cathedral, perhaps a stop at the picturesque harbour villages with their red-tiled houses, and time in St Andrews for lunch. Golf fans will want a photo on the Swilcan Bridge, though access to the course itself depends on rules and times, so check that if it matters to you. The University and its medieval streets reward a slow walk, and the West Sands beach is a good place to stretch your legs.
How it compares
This is the tour for those who want a change from lochs and glens. If mountains and Highland scenery are the goal, Glencoe, Oban and Loch Ness cover more of that. If you want a shorter day, Stirling is closer and can be done by train, while St Andrews is a long haul by public transport, which is why a coach tour makes sense. Pack a camera, sensible shoes and a sense of fun.
What to expect
The experience
A guided coach day from Glasgow to St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife, with time in the medieval town, the Old Course and the fishing villages of the coast.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn gives the best weather for coastal walks, though the town is atmospheric in any season.
How long
About eight to nine hours from Glasgow and back.
Tips
Pack a windproof layer, decide in advance whether to pay for the cathedral and castle, and check the route on the tour page.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Golf fans, history lovers and travellers who want a seaside change from the Highlands.
- Families
- Good for children who enjoy a beach and a ruined castle; the day is long.
- Couples
- A relaxed day of coastal walks, medieval streets and a seafood lunch.
- Pair with
- A Glasgow Necropolis and cathedral day on another date for more history.
- Time needed
- A full day of eight to nine hours.
Good questions
How long is the St Andrews tour from Glasgow?+
It runs for about eight to nine hours, starting and ending in Glasgow.
Is St Andrews worth a day trip from Glasgow?+
Yes, for the medieval town, the ruined cathedral, the university and the golf heritage. It is a long drive, so a coach tour is convenient.
Can I play the Old Course on the tour?+
Not as part of the tour. Access to the course depends on its own booking rules, so check separately if you want to play.
Which fishing villages are included?+
Routes vary by departure. Check the tour page for the current itinerary.
What should I wear?+
Layers and a windproof jacket, as the east coast can be breezy even in summer.
