Medieval St Andrews packs 800 years of history into its compact town center, and the best way to experience it is through its excellent walking tours. The essential University and Cathedral tours give you the nuts and bolts of St Andrews’ religious and academic heritage, while evening ghost tours add spine-tingling tales to historical facts. My favorite is the Old Course walking tour – even non-golfers appreciate seeing the iconic Swilcan Bridge and hearing stories of golf legends who’ve played these hallowed grounds. These 90-minute tours are led by passionate local guides who know their stuff and keep things engaging. Read on for our carefully selected tour recommendations.
Key Points
-
The Golf Oriented Heritage Tour, led by local historian Richard Falconer, offers a comprehensive exploration of St Andrews’ key landmarks and golf history.
-
For those interested in the paranormal, the Spectral Soirée: Ghostly Echoes tour provides a unique opportunity to encounter ghostly figures and learn about the city’s haunted past.
-
The Old Course History Tour for Golfers, with its engaging storytelling and photo opportunities at landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge, is a must for golf enthusiasts.
-
The 90-Minute Historical Walking Tour, led by Richard Falconer, delves into the city’s significance as a spiritual center since 500 BC and its connections to historical figures.
-
The Town, Golf, and Old Course History Tour, with its in-depth insights and visits to iconic sites, offers an exceptional value for those seeking to enjoy St Andrews’ rich heritage and golf legacy.
St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours – Town and Old Course
St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours offer visitors an immersive exploration of the town’s rich golfing heritage.
Led by local historian and former caddie Richard Falconer, these highly-rated tours (4.9 out of 5 stars from 120 reviews) provide an in-depth look at the evolution of golf and the iconic Old Course.
Participants will visit key landmarks like the St Andrews Cathedral, castle, and oldest university, while learning about the sport’s origins.
The tours also feature a walk across the Old Course fairway and a photo opportunity at the famous Swilcan Bridge.
With a maximum group size of 20, these tours are ideal for both golfers and non-golfers seeking an engaging and informative experience in St Andrews.
Read our full review: St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours – Town and Old Course Review
Book now: Check availability
St. Andrews Spectral Soirée: Ghostly Echoes of History
Ghostly tales of St. Andrews’ haunted past come alive on the Spectral Soirée tour.
For £9,827 per group, visitors can uncover centuries-old mysteries over 2 hours.
The tour explores historic sites under moonlit ambiance, from the Holy Trinity Church to the University of St Andrews.
Along the way, guests encounter ghostly figures like Bishop Lamberton and the Grey Lady, and experience the haunting melodies of ghost pipers.
With a professional local guide, participants explore a realm where the past is ever-present, inviting exploration of its secrets.
The tour offers flexible date selection and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: St. Andrews Spectral Soirée: Ghostly Echoes of History Review
Book now: Check availability
St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer
For golfers visiting the historic town of St. Andrews, the Old Course History Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the cradle of golf.
Led by professional guides and historians, this 4.5-star rated tour offers insights into the course’s rich heritage and personal anecdotes that bring its storied past to life.
Priced at €18.37 per person, the tour includes a walk across the iconic 1st/18th fairway, though caution is advised during live play.
With a 91% recommendation rate, the tour is praised for its engaging storytelling and the chance to capture photos at landmark locations like the Swilcan Bridge.
While not suitable for those with limited mobility, the tour delivers a must-have experience for golf enthusiasts exploring the birthplace of the sport.
Read our full review: St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer Review
Book now: Check availability
St Andrews: 90-Minute Historical Walking Tour
Visitors seeking to uncover the rich history of St Andrews can embark on the captivating 90-Minute Historical Walking Tour.
Led by local historian Richard Falconer, who’s over 40 years of research on the town’s past, this tour provides an immersive experience.
Participants will visit key landmarks like the St Andrews Cathedral, Castle, and Harbour, while learning about the city’s significance as a spiritual center since 500 BC and its connections to figures like Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots.
With personal wireless audio receivers for larger groups, off-the-beaten-path locations, and Falconer’s insights, this tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into St Andrews’ lost history.
Read our full review: St Andrews: 90-Minute Historical Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
St Andrews: Town, Golf, and Old Course History Tour
The St Andrews: Town, Golf, and Old Course History Tour offers a captivating 105-minute exploration of the town’s rich heritage, with a particular focus on its renowned golf legacy.
Led by author and historian Richard Falconer, the tour provides in-depth insights into the evolution of golf and the significance of St Andrews.
Highlights include photo opportunities on the iconic Swilcan Bridge, visits to iconic sites like the Old Course, and paying respects at the graves of golfing pioneers.
Suitable for both golfers and non-golfers, the tour delivers exceptional value for money and consistently receives high praise from customers for its informative and engaging guide.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Town, Golf, and Old Course History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
St Andrews: Old Course History Tour – 80s Pro Caddie Guide
Richard Falconer, an author, historian, and former 1980s pro caddie at the Old Course, leads the St Andrews: Old Course History Tour, providing an intimate perspective on the course’s rich legacy.
The 75-minute walking tour explores the evolution of golf and the iconic Old Course, with stops at landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge.
Falconer shares rare golfing photos and historical anecdotes, delving into the contributions of golfing pioneers like Allan Robertson and the Morris family.
Guests can expect to learn about the birth of the Open Championship and discover the development stages of the Old Course.
The tour concludes at the Jigger Inn, offering refreshments overlooking the 17th fairway.
Read our full review: St Andrews: Old Course History Tour – 80s Pro Caddie Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
St Andrews offers a range of historical tours that cater to diverse interests. From golf-focused heritage walks to ghostly explorations, visitors can explore the town’s rich past. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or simply curious about the area’s history, there’s a tour to suit your needs. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, these tours provide a compelling way to discover the essence of this historic Scottish destination.