When you visit Scotland you will find many beautiful cities, all with their own rich history and impressive architecture, and the quaint town of Saint Andrews is no different. People always seem to forget about this seaside town on the east coast, in favor of bolder places like Aberdeen or Dundee, but St Andrews has a lot to offer this summer for a relaxing break away. St Andrews, Scotland might not sound like one of the top travel destinations, but it is a place of interesting things to do. Here are four of the best things to do in St. Andrews.
There are plenty of hotels in St Andrews, too, so there’s every reason for you to catch one (or all) of these brilliant attractions over the next couple of months.
Things to Do in St Andrews Scotland
Scottish Deer Center
There are many cities that can boast of zoos, but in St Andrews, they take conservation and animal care even further. You can check out the natural habitat maintained at the Scottish Deer Center.
Set in the Fife countryside and covering over 55 acres, you’ll be able to discover 14 species of Deer from around the world this summer, as well as Fife’s only Wolf pack, families of Otters, and rare species such as the Wildcat.
Enjoy Scottish hospitality
Tucked away towards the coast, St Andrews is known for providing a spot of luxury in the Highlands. For starters, why not enjoy a dram and a custom-made bed at the Hotel du Vin, St Andrews? You’ll find the decor reminiscent of a grand old hunting lodge, but with all the modern additions that make this hotel a true luxury experience.
After unpacking, you can visit one of the local golf clubs and indulge in some traditional Scottish fayre. It just so happens that the world-famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club is just a two-minute walk away, so if you’re a golfing enthusiast, this is the place for you.
Watch the St Andrews Highland Games
This is a huge attraction every summer despite it being relatively new to the games scene, so on Sunday 31st July this year, why not join the crowds and grab a seat for one of the many events.
This year will mark only the 32nd St Andrews Highland Games, but they’re very well-established and revered as one of the top highland games in Fife. Events include everything from Running, Cycling, and Heavy Weights, to Tug-of-war, Solo Piping, and the Scottish tradition of Highland Dance.
Take stock at the town markets
If you want the very finest summer ingredients for a picnic in the sun, or you’re a foodie in need of some inspiration, this is the place to find it. The St Andrew’s Farmer’s Market happens on the first Saturday of every month, and it’s where you’ll find as many as 30 stalls bursting with the freshest produce in the area.
If you still haven’t had your market fix, you’re in luck, because one of Europe’s oldest markets is happening from Friday 9th to Tuesday 13th of August. Lammas Market includes funfair rides, food and drink stalls and crafts.
I hope you enjoyed this post on St Andrews – are you heading there this summer?
