University of St. Andrews

University of St. Andrews showing street scenes and heritage elements
University of St. Andrews which includes interior views
University of St. Andrews showing interior views
University of St. Andrews
University of St. Andrews showing heritage elements, a house and street scenes


Stroll through the scenic campus and gaze up at the historic buildings that decorate this prestigious university from the 1400s.

Steeped in tradition, the University of St. Andrews is among the oldest in the English-speaking world. The academic institution is known for its impressive buildings spread around fields and floral displays. Visit its museums to see collections that inspire the students of this venerable university.

Read the various plaques giving context to the buildings. See the Schools and United College, which was one of the first parts of the university to be built. Enter the majestic structures to see the old-fashioned lecture theatres and dining halls. These buildings stand around St. Salvator’s Quadrangle. Access the large plaza via a hidden archway beneath the tower of St. Salvator’s Chapel.

Enter this religious site and appreciate the tranquil setting. Its black-and-white tiled floor, wooden wall fixtures and religious artworks generate an inviting atmosphere. Visit the other collegiate chapel of St. Leonard’s.

Relax with a drink at a campus restaurant and watch the students and professors go by. Discover the café that claims to be the spot where Prince William and Kate Middleton first met as students.

Imagine being a scholar living in the university halls. Note the diversity of architectural styles for the student accommodation, from brutalist to Gothic Revival.

Spend some time in the Museum of the University of St. Andrews, which has more than 112,000 items. Its four galleries display items ranging from medieval maces and stained-glass windows to golf relics. See natural history exhibits in the Bell Pettigrew Museum and university history in the Gateway Galleries.

Learn about the university’s long-lived traditions. Some students wear distinctive red gowns the way they wear them indicates their years of studies. Hear about Raisin Weekend, when first-year “bejants” present a gift to their third-year academic “parents.”

Visit the university between morning and late afternoon on any day year-round. The University of St. Andrews campus is spread out across the centre of the city. Numerous bus stops line the streets at the various entrances to the university.

Plan a trip to see University of St. Andrews

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MONO Suites Old Town
The Scotsman Hotel
Ocean Serviced Apartments

Popular places to visit


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Old Course Hotel

Old Course Hotel

5 out of 5
Old Station Road, St. Andrews, Scotland
Old Course Hotel
Rusacks St Andrews

Rusacks St Andrews

5 out of 5
Pilmour Links, St. Andrews, Scotland
Rusacks St Andrews
Rufflets St Andrews

Rufflets St Andrews

4 out of 5
Strathkinness Low Road, Fife, St. Andrews, Scotland
Rufflets St Andrews
David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation

David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation

3 out of 5
Buchanan Gardens, St. Andrews, Scotland
David Russell Apartments Campus Accommodation
4 Middleshade Road, 4 bedroom family home in St Andrews

4 Middleshade Road, 4 bedroom family home in St Andrews

St. Andrews, Fife
4 Middleshade Road, 4 bedroom family home in St Andrews
Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews

Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews

4 out of 5
40 The Scores, St. Andrews, Scotland
Hotel du Vin & Bistro St. Andrews
THE SPACE TO STAY

THE SPACE TO STAY

Kilrymont Rd., St. Andrews, Scotland
THE SPACE TO STAY
Seaton House

Seaton House

5 out of 5
Seaton House, 76 The Scores, St. Andrews, Scotland
Seaton House
New Park Place Apartments (No 15)

New Park Place Apartments (No 15)

St Andrews
New Park Place Apartments (No 15)
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of St. Andrews

At the University of St. Andrews, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including renowned golf courses, relaxing spa experiences, and engaging walking tours that showcase the historic charm of the area. Exploring the picturesque surroundings and participating in guided tours will enhance your experience, making it a delightful destination for both leisure and exploration.

Shopping

In St. Andrews, enjoy charming local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Wellgate Shopping Centre, located 6.8km away, offering a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. For a larger selection, St James Quarter and Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre are 30 and 17.4km away, respectively.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at the Old Course, renowned for its historic charm and outdoor sports atmosphere, located 559m from the university. Alternatively, unwind at Craigtoun Country Park, 1.2km away, where you can embrace nature and indulge in relaxation amid its tranquil surroundings.

Adventure

The Fife Coastal Path, located 3.7km from the University of St. Andrews, offers breathtaking views for hikers seeking adventure. Elie Holiday Park, 6.2km away, is a family-friendly campground perfect for outdoor activities. Meanwhile, the Lochs and Glens North Cycle Route, 8.1km distant, invites cycling enthusiasts to explore stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

For a cultural evening, catch a show at the Dundee Repertory Theatre, just 6.2km away, perfect for family or romance. If you're in the mood for fun, visit The Fun Factory arcade, 6.8km away, or gaze at the stars at Mills Observatory, also 6.8km away.

Find the best attractions near University of St. Andrews

The University of St. Andrews offers a charming blend of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic castles, and urban parks, perfect for those seeking culture and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore St. Andrews Cathedral and St. Andrews Castle, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy the renowned golf courses nearby. To enhance your stay, consider searching for hotels close to the university to make the most of your visit to this picturesque Scottish town.

  • St. Andrew's Cathedral: Explore the majestic ruins of St. Andrew's Cathedral, steeped in history and culture. Once a grand ecclesiastical centre, it offers a serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for reflection.
  • St. Andrew's Castle: Discover the romantic allure of St. Andrew's Castle, where you can wander through its ancient walls and imagine the stories of its past. Its picturesque location overlooking the sea adds to the charm, making it a captivating destination.
  • West Sands: Enjoy the tranquil beach vibes at West Sands, known for its stunning sandy stretch and scenic views. It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply soaking up the sun by the shoreline.

Best time to go to University of St. Andrews

The best time to visit University of St. Andrews is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April44.8°F (7.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of St. Andrews

For a budget-friendly visit to the University of St. Andrews, consider travelling between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance or searching for last-minute deals on Expedia can yield savings. Stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and utilise Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combine hotel bookings with flights for added discounts. Additionally, explore free activities around the university, and make use of public transport to keep travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of St. Andrews are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around University of St. Andrews about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of St. Andrews is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around University of St. Andrews is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at the University of St. Andrews with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.