St Andrews

Tours

You leave Edinburgh and travel north to South Queensferry. You travel over the Queensferry Crossing, and get a great view of one of Scotland's greatest man-made landmarks, the Forth Rail Bridge. You then enter the Kingdom of Fife and stop in the traditional fishing village of Anstruther (known as 'Ainster' locally), where you can check out the old cobbled streets and take a walk along the seafront to the harbour. From Anstruther, we continue north to the medieval town of St Andrews. St Andrew is the patron Saint of Scotland, and according to legend his remains were washed up on the Fife coast. St Andrews is also home to the third oldest university in Britain and a beautiful ruined castle perched on a cliff. You have around two and a half hours to explore this fascinating town. After St Andrews, we take a pleasant drive through the rolling countryside of central Fife to Falkland. Falkland Palace dominates this old village, and was one of the main residences of the old Royal family of Scotland, the Stewarts (Stuarts). Aside from the palace the village is simply one of the most beautiful in Scotland with an array of old cottages and narrow winding streets. Leaving Falkland we return to Edinburgh, passing Loch Leven, where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned by her Protestant nobility. And then we once again cross the Firth of Forth and return to the city

Discover the Scenic Beauty of Fife's Coast on a Day Trip from Edinburgh Departing from Edinburgh, we cross the iconic Forth Bridge into the historic Kingdom of Fife, journeying through the coastal village of Aberdour before reaching the charming East Neuk of Fife. Our first stop is in the picturesque town of Anstruther, home to the Scottish Fisheries Museum. We then travel through the scenic fishing villages of Pittenweem, Crail, and St. Monans, once bustling centers of trade with Europe. Next, we arrive at the medieval town of St. Andrews, the world-famous home of golf. You’ll have about three hours to explore its historic streets, visit St. Andrews University (where Prince William met Kate), and tour the iconic St. Andrews Cathedral (optional extra). Don't miss a stroll around the renowned Old Course and the spectacular coastline. As we make our way back, we cross the scenic Lomond Hills, stopping for photos in the charming village of Falkland, featured as 1960s Inverness in the Outlander series. We then descend to Loch Leven, the site of Mary Queen of Scots' imprisonment and escape, before reaching the picturesque village of South Queensferry for a final stop with views of the Forth Bridges. Finally, we return to Edinburgh after a day full of history, coastal beauty, and rich Scottish heritage.

A fluent command of English is essential for these tours. Speaking slowly or translating does not work. Not suitable for under 2s. On this information-packed tour with author, historian, and 1980s Pro A1 Old Course Caddie Richard Falconer, you will learn how the evolution of the Old Course developed significant elements of the game we know and love, making St Andrews the Home of Golf. Dispelling the myths, the tour unfolds as a detective story piecing together the development of the game we know and love. Richard opens the tour with important St Andrews history that inadvertently sees the arrival of a European stick and ball game in the 13th century. As that developed across Scotland, a golfing landmark in 18th century Edinburgh resulted in St Andrews being the beneficiary of rules they would develop and make their own. As many golfing aspects unfold, the tour takes in the 18th green, the 1st tee with the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse as the backdrop, the 1st and 18th fairways, and Road hole memories with a photo shoot on the Swilkan Bridge to finish (excludes tournament days). You can then enjoy refreshments overlooking the 17th fairway (not included) at the famed Old Course Jigger Inn. Richards Tours are endorsed by Rick Steves and famed St Andrews Golf Historian and legend David Joy.

A quaint town beaming with locals, students from all over the world and even royalty, our St Andrews is charming and captivating, whichever way you look! From the international home of golf, to the world’s third oldest university, with one of the most beautiful shorelines on the east coast, there’s something for everyone to discover in this idyllic town. Join your local guide on a 1.5 hour stroll around the main sights of St Andrews and discover things you wouldn't see visiting yourself. Explore St Andrews as you walk in the footsteps of golfing legends, royals, heretics who were burned at the stake, famous cats and those who live in St Andrews today! Your local guide will bring St Andrews to life. Key sights: St Andrews Cathedral St Andrews Castle The Old Course North St & Market St The University of Saint Andrews St. Salvator's Chapel …and many more hidden gems!

The first stop of your tour is just outside of Edinburgh at the South Queensferry. Here you will see the beautiful and spectacular works of industrial engineering, the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Forth Bridge. We keep going and before arriving to St Andrews, we'll have a coffee break in the small village of Falkland. This village is famous for its beauty and for being the perfect setting to represent Inverness in the Outlander series. The tour stops in St. Andrews. This seaside town is known for being the home of golf, but that is not all. See the historic coastline and visit the beach where the mythical scene of Chariots of Fire was filmed. When you arrive your guide will take you on a panoramic tour of St. Andrews where you will learn about the history and tales of the town. You will then have free time to explore St. Andrews on your own. After exploring St. Andrews continues on to Dunnottar Castle. This castle is situated on a cliff facing the North Sea and is considered by many to be the most beautiful castle in Scotland. Walk over the cliffs and discover this mighty castle at the end of the path. Breathtaking. Then start heading back towards Edinburgh. We will stop over along the way in the city of Dundee to see the RRS Discovery, the ship which took Captain Scott on the race to conquer the South Pole in the Antartica. **Tickets to attractions not included**

Your first stop on this tour is to see the Kelpies Monument, created by artist Andy Scott. It is modeled after Clydesdale horses Duke and Baron, which symbolize the lineage of heavy horses throughout Scottish history that helped shape the surrounding region of Falkirk. Leaving behind these awe-inspiring creatures, it's time for a pleasant drive through the rolling countryside of the Kingdom of Fife to Falkland. Falkland Palace dominates this old village, and was one of the main residences of the old Royal family of Scotland, the Stewarts (Stuarts). Aside from the palace, the village is simply one of the most beautiful in Scotland, with an array of old cottages and narrow winding streets. Outlander fans may recognize this as the location for 1940s Inverness in the popular TV series. Next up is where you've been waiting for: the medieval town of St Andrews. St Andrew is the patron Saint of Scotland, and according to legend, his remains were washed up on the Fife coast. St Andrews is also home to the third oldest university in Britain and a beautiful ruined castle perched on a cliff. You have a few hours to explore this fascinating town and its impressive landmarks. As you head back towards Glasgow, stop in at Queensferry Crossing and get a great view of one of Scotland's greatest man-made landmarks, the Forth Rail Bridge. Arrive back in Glasgow in the early evening to wrap up your full-day tour.

A fluent command of English is essential for all participants. Speaking slowly or translating does not work. These tours are unsuitable for those with walking difficulties, ie walking slowly; inc Zimmers, knee/hip problems, sprained ankles etc. Plus there are no rest stops and with the tour being a loop, dipping out once the tour has started wouldn't shorten the overall distance and the golf course is on the latter part of the tour. This tour was created with the golfer and non-golfer in mind, so while there is a lot of golf on this tour, it is not all about golf. There is something for everyone. After meeting your guide outside Hotel du Vin, we will head towards the ruined Cathedral. En route you will hear about the Dunhill Championship and see Scotland's oldest university with the quadrangle of St Salvator’s College. You will hear about William and Kate, and when the Netflix series 'The Crown' came to town. You will also take a peek inside one of St Andrews breathtaking hidden gems. Along with a few other points of interest along the way, the cathedral grounds are the next landmark on the tour: Pay your respects to golfing greats Old and Young Tom Morris, Allan Robertson and Jamie Anderson. You will also see the ruins of the Bishop's Palace - a prominent symbol of former Catholic wealth and power in Scotland. From there you'll walk along the Scores passing beautiful Victorian buildings of the university, the Principals House, and the residence where Prince William and Kate spent their first year as students. Heading to the Old Course you will hear about the early development of the Open Championship, and how the game of golf would develop in St Andrews to become the Home of Golf. Walk by the 18th green, 1st tee and first fairway hearing about some of the quarks of the game having shaped its remarkable history, how the Links came to have 18 holes plus details of the iconic buildings overlooking the course and a few memorable golfing moments. * The tour finishes at the Swilkan Bridge where you will be able to have your photo taken - excludes tournament days. You can then head to the Jigger Inn/Old Course Hotel to relax with iconic views and ponder the many heady days of St Andrews.

**SELLS OUT IN SUMMER - please book early to avoid disappointment** St Andrews; the home of golf. What better way to discover St Andrews golf legacy and the Old Course than with a local expert! With flexible meeting and end points, and a dedicated local guide, maximise your time in St Andrews on a private tour. Do something different and discover the controversies and quirks of golf, as well as a local insight into the politics of golf in the town. Get the insider scoop to the Royal and Ancient politics from a local outsider - without the bias. From the origins of the sport, and spending time on the 1st, 17th & 18th fairways, finish off with a photo on the famous Swilken Bridge, discover our incredible legacy with your local guide. You'll also see where some of the most famous shots in golf history took place (The Sands of Nakajima, Eisenhower on the Old Course etc.). Discover: Royal and Ancient Club Royal and Ancient Golf Museum 1st Tee & Fairway Putting Green 17th Green 18th Fairway Swilken Bridge …and many more hidden gems you wouldn't discover yourself!

Depart Edinburgh, travel over the Queensferry crossing, and drive along the coast towards the beautiful coastal town of St Andrews. Arrive on the coast and go for a short walk to Lady's Tower and Lighthouse and experience the sea breeze and beautiful scenery. The town of St Andrews is mainly known for the historic Old Course Golf Course, though there is so much more to see. You'll get the chance to visit St Andrews Castle, and St Andrews Cathedral and walk the streets of this historic town. You'll also have time for a delicious lunch at one of many places in St Andrews! To finish the day there's the historic Dunfermline Abbey, the resting location of Scottish Kings and Queens dating back almost 1000 years ago. From here, you'll travel back to Edinburgh, where your Scotland Tour Guide will drop you off at the same location you were picked up.

Make your own way to the meeting point in Edinburgh Old Town, and hop onto a coach or minivan. Head to Stirling, a medieval city that played a vital role in Scottish history. Look out for the imposing Stirling Castle, which sits on mound of volcanic rock, overlooking the town and surrounding region. If you choose to, you can enter the royal fortress and walk through the royal chambers, once home to Scottish kings and queens. Explore for around an hour before you travel to a nearby whisky distillery. Walk through the brewery to discover the steps it takes to produce the spirit. Finish your visit with a sample of whisky. Continue on to the coastal town of St Andrews. Hear your guide recount the story of the city's past and explain its connection to Catholicism. On arrival, enjoy free time to wander around. View the remains of the ruined cathedral, once the biggest Catholic church in Scotland, or visit the renowned Old Course, the world's oldest golf course. Take the opportunity to eat lunch here and after around two hours in St Andrews, begin the journey back to Edinburgh. Make one last stop in the village of South Queensferry to admire views of the Forth Bridge, an iconic Victorian structure, before your drive back to Edinburgh Old Town.