The medieval town of St Andrews offers several excellent guided experiences worth your time and money. The best walking tours are led by passionate local guides who bring the town’s 1,000-year history to life. For golf fans, nothing beats the Old Course History Tour – you’ll learn fascinating details about the birthplace of golf while standing on hallowed ground. Student-led university tours provide an authentic look at Scotland’s oldest university, complete with traditions and hidden corners most visitors miss.
These top-rated tours consistently earn rave reviews, especially the intimate private walking tours that let you set the pace. Comprehensive public tours cover the cathedral ruins, castle, and historic town center, hitting all the essential sights in about 2 hours.
Check out our carefully selected tours below for the very best options in St Andrews.
Key Points
- For a personalized, storytelling-focused tour, consider the 95% traveler-recommended Private St Andrews Tour with wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
- The St Andrews: Old Course History Tour led by a historian provides a 75-minute deep dive into the evolution of the iconic Old Course.
- The Private Guided Walking Tour for Future Students offers insider university insights from local students or recent graduates in a 1.5-hour format.
- The Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour explores St Andrews’ rich heritage, including key attractions like the Cathedral and Castle, in a 2-hour personalized experience.
- For a comprehensive daily tour, the 105-minute Guided Walking Tours led by a local author and historian cover historic sites like the Harbour, Cathedral, and Swilcan Bridge.
Private St. Andrews Tour With Dedicated Local Guide
For visitors seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of the historic town of St. Andrews, the Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide offers an exceptional experience.
This 95% traveler-recommended tour takes guests on a private journey through the charming streets, providing an insider’s perspective from a knowledgeable local guide.
With a meeting point at the Martyrs Monument and an end point at the Blackfriars Chapel, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it inclusive for various mobility levels.
Guests can expect engaging storytelling, insightful historical anecdotes, and a tailored experience that accommodates their interests and needs.
The tour’s value is undeniable, with prices starting from $154.70 per group of up to 6 people.
Travelers also appreciate the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Private St. Andrews Tour With Dedicated Local Guide Review
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St Andrews: Old Course History Tour – 80s Pro Caddie Guide
This 75-minute St Andrews: Golf Origins and Old Course History Tour takes visitors on an engaging journey through the birthplace of golf.
Led by historian and former caddie Richard Falconer, the tour provides insider insights into the evolution of the iconic Old Course and the sport’s rich history.
Highlights include a photo stop at the renowned Swilcan Bridge, visits to the 18th green, 1st tee, and Royal and Ancient Clubhouse, and captivating stories about influential golf figures.
Participants can also enjoy refreshments at the nearby Jigger Inn, overlooking the 17th fairway.
While the tour is suitable for adults and children aged 5-16, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or under 2 years old.
Comfortable shoes are advised, and disruptive behavior or alcohol consumption is prohibited.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 237 reviews, this tour offers an immersive and informative experience for golf enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Old Course History Tour – 80s Pro Caddie Guide Review
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St Andrews: Private Guided Walking Tour for Future Students
Designed for prospective University of St Andrews students, this 1.5-hour private walking tour provides an insider’s glimpse into student life in the historic town.
Led by a local student or recent graduate, the tour explores the town’s key sights, including the St Andrews Cathedral, market area, cafes, as well as the university campus and The Old Course.
Along the way, guests will gain valuable insights about student life and the rich history and culture of St Andrews.
Priced at $154.09 for up to 4 participants, the tour is wheelchair accessible and features a flexible booking policy that allows guests to reserve their spot with no initial cost.
With a perfect 5/5 rating based on 3 reviews, the tour has received high praise for the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, particularly a guide named Verity.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for this immersive walking experience.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Private Guided Walking Tour for Future Students Review
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St Andrews: Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour
Embarking on a 2-hour private guided walking tour, guests explore the historic town of St Andrews and uncover its rich heritage. Priced from $184.91 per group (up to 6 participants), this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the town’s key attractions, including the iconic St Andrews Cathedral, the captivating St Andrews Castle, and the legendary Old Course – the home of golf.
Guided by knowledgeable local experts, the tour offers a personalized experience, tailoring the itinerary to suit personal interests. Visitors will explore the town’s storied past, tracing the steps of golfing legends and historical figures while discovering hidden gems and local insights.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. With a 5/5 rating based on 18 reviews, this walking tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy the charm and history of St Andrews.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Town Highlights Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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St Andrews: Guided Walking Tour, 12pm, 2pm Daily
Guests can embark on a 105-minute guided walking tour of St Andrews daily at 12pm and 2pm. Led by local author and town/golf historian Richard Falconer, the tour takes visitors through the historic town, including stops at St Andrews Harbour, the Cathedral, Castle, St Salvators College, the Old Course, and the iconic Swilcan Bridge.
Along the way, guests will learn about the Pictish Kings, Mary Queen of Scots, and the town’s royal connections.
The tour is priced from $18.49 per person and operates rain or shine, though severe weather may result in cancellation with options for refund or rescheduling.
Participants receive a personal wireless audio receiver and whisper earphone for larger groups. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, those with mobility issues, or individuals with walking difficulties.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 28 reviews, the tour offers excellent value for money and an insightful exploration of St Andrews’ rich history and transformation into the Home of Golf.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Guided Walking Tour, 12pm, 2pm Daily Review
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St Andrews: Top Sights Guided Walking Tour
Travelers can explore the top sights of historic St Andrews on this guided walking tour. Priced from $18.49 per person, the 1.5-hour tour takes visitors to key landmarks, including the St Andrews Cathedral, St Andrews Castle, the Old Course, and the University of St Andrews.
Led by a knowledgeable guide in a bright orange jacket, the tour provides insights into the town’s rich history, golf legacy, and university traditions.
Wheelchair accessible and with the flexibility to reserve now and pay later, the tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating based on 200 reviews, the tour earns high praise for its informative guides and engaging experiences. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
The tour starts at the Martyrs Memorial and concludes at the West Port Gate, offering a comprehensive introduction to the charming town of St Andrews.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Top Sights Guided Walking Tour Review
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Recap
St Andrews offers a variety of guided tours to suit different interests. Whether you’re interested in the history of the Old Course, want a private walking tour, or wish to explore the town’s top sights, there’s a guided option to meet your needs. Experienced local guides can provide valuable insights and tailor the experience to your preferences.