St. Andrews, UK, is not only a charming town known for its historic university and stunning golf courses but also serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. Embarking on day trips from St. Andrews UK allows visitors to discover the diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions of Scotland. From picturesque coastal villages to majestic castles and lush countryside, there is no shortage of exciting destinations to explore within a short drive from St. Andrews. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, historical sites, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Scotland, day trips from St. Andrews UK offer a perfect opportunity to experience the best that this region has to offer.
Edinburgh
Travel tips
- Distance from St. Andrews UK: 50 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1.5 hours
- How to get there: You can take the train from Leuchars Train Station in St. Andrews to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Alternatively, you can take the Stagecoach bus service from St. Andrews to Edinburgh.
- Click for Google maps directions: Edinburgh
Exploring Edinburgh: Things to do
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. One of the top attractions in Edinburgh is the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock offering panoramic views of the city. Delve into the city’s rich history by exploring the Royal Mile, a historic street lined with charming shops, pubs, and historic buildings.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Scottish National Gallery is a must, showcasing a diverse collection of artworks spanning centuries. Nature lovers can escape to the serene Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Don’t miss out on a stroll through Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
Foodies will delight in the culinary scene of Edinburgh, with a plethora of restaurants offering traditional Scottish dishes and international cuisine. Make sure to try haggis, a classic Scottish dish, and indulge in a dram of whisky at one of the city’s cozy whisky bars.
Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Edinburgh, such as the trendy Leith area or the historic Dean Village, will give you a glimpse into the local life and culture. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of the Old Town or hiking up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views, Edinburgh offers something for every traveler to enjoy.
Stirling
Travel tips
- Distance of Stirling from St. Andrews UK: 60 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there from St. Andrews UK: You can reach Stirling from St. Andrews by taking a train from Leuchars Railway Station to Stirling Railway Station. Alternatively, you can take the Stagecoach Bus X24 from St. Andrews Bus Station to Stirling Bus Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Stirling
Exploring Stirling: Things to do
Stirling, a historic city in central Scotland, is a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval buildings and rich heritage, making it a perfect day trip from St. Andrews.
One of the top attractions in Stirling is the iconic Stirling Castle, perched atop Castle Hill. Explore the grand halls, intricate tapestries, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes from the castle walls. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Church of the Holy Rude, a 15th-century church where Scottish monarchs were crowned.
For a taste of nature, head to the beautiful Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of art and artifacts. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Old Town, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and historic landmarks.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the famous battle that took place in 1314. Explore the interactive exhibits and immersive displays that bring this pivotal moment in Scottish history to life.
Conclude your day trip with a relaxing walk along the River Forth or a hike up the nearby Ochil Hills for panoramic views of the city and beyond. Stirling offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a memorable destination for travelers exploring Scotland.
Dundee
Travel tips
- Distance from St. Andrews UK to Dundee: 15 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by car
- How to get there from St. Andrews UK: You can take the X54 bus from St. Andrews Bus Station to Dundee Bus Station. Alternatively, you can take the train from Leuchars Train Station to Dundee Train Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Dundee
Exploring Dundee: Things to do
Dundee, a vibrant city in Scotland, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. One of the top things to do in Dundee is to visit the iconic V&A Dundee museum, which showcases design and innovation from around the world. History enthusiasts can explore the fascinating exhibits at the McManus Galleries, while nature lovers can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Dundee Law for panoramic views of the city and the River Tay.
For those interested in maritime history, a visit to the RRS Discovery, the ship that took Captain Scott to Antarctica, is a must. Dundee also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as cycling along the waterfront or enjoying a picnic in one of the city’s many parks. Foodies will delight in the local culinary scene, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and markets to explore.
Overall, Dundee’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern attractions make it a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Scotland.
Perth
Travel tips
- Distance of Perth from St. Andrews Uk: 40 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there from St. Andrews Uk: You can take the Stagecoach East Scotland bus service or ScotRail train from St. Andrews to Perth. The bus station in St. Andrews is located on City Road, and the train station is situated on City Road as well. In Perth, the bus and train stations are centrally located for easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Click for Google maps directions: Perth
Exploring Perth: Things to do
Perth, a vibrant city in Scotland, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the top attractions in Perth is the stunning Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings and a treasure trove of art and antiques. Visitors can explore the palace’s grand rooms, stroll through the picturesque gardens, and learn about Scotland’s royal heritage.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Perthshire countryside is a must. The nearby Perthshire Highlands offer breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Be sure to visit the famous Birnam Oak, immortalized in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, and take a leisurely walk along the River Tay.
In the heart of Perth, you’ll find the charming Perth Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that highlight the region’s rich history and artistic heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse the local shops and markets, where you can pick up unique souvenirs and sample delicious Scottish cuisine.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Perth has something to offer every traveler. With its welcoming atmosphere and array of attractions, Perth is a destination that should not be missed on your Scottish adventure.
Falkland
Travel tips
- Distance from St. Andrews Uk: 9 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes by car
- How to get there: You can take the Stagecoach bus service from St. Andrews Bus Station to Falkland, or drive via the A91 road. The nearest train station is Ladybank.
- Click for Google maps directions: Falkland
Exploring Falkland: Things to do
Falkland, a charming village just a short drive away from St. Andrews, is a must-see destination for those looking to experience the beauty of rural Scotland. The village is renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings, including Falkland Palace, a stunning Renaissance palace that offers a glimpse into Scotland’s royal past.
Visitors to Falkland can explore the picturesque streets lined with traditional Scottish cottages, browse the quaint shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in the peaceful surroundings. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lush greenery and scenic views that Falkland has to offer, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip.
For history buffs, a visit to Falkland Palace is a highlight not to be missed. This former royal residence boasts beautiful gardens, intricate tapestries, and fascinating exhibitions that showcase the rich history of the palace and its royal inhabitants. Additionally, the nearby Falkland Estate provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
In conclusion, Falkland is a hidden gem in the heart of Fife, offering a perfect blend of history, nature, and Scottish charm. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, enjoying the great outdoors, or simply soaking up the village atmosphere, Falkland has something for everyone to enjoy.
Crail
Travel tips
- Distance of Crail from St. Andrews UK: 10 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by car
- How to get there from St. Andrews UK: You can take the Stagecoach Bus 95 from St. Andrews Bus Station to Crail or drive along the A917. The nearest train station is in Leuchars.
- Click for Google maps directions: Crail
Exploring Crail: Things to do
Crail, a charming coastal village in Fife, Scotland, is a must-see destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea. With its picturesque harbor, historic buildings, and stunning views of the North Sea, Crail offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Scottish coastal life.
One of the top things to do in Crail is to explore the quaint streets lined with colorful houses and shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor and watch the fishing boats come and go, or visit the Crail Museum and Heritage Centre to learn about the village’s rich history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Crail offers scenic coastal walks with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Don’t miss a visit to the Crail Golfing Society, one of the oldest golf clubs in the world, where you can tee off against a backdrop of the sea.
Foodies will delight in the local seafood offerings, with many restaurants serving up fresh catches of the day. Be sure to try the famous Crail crab or enjoy a traditional Scottish meal at one of the cozy pubs in the village.
Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing by the sea, Crail has something for everyone. Plan a day trip to this charming village and experience the beauty and tranquility of Scotland’s east coast.
Anstruther
Travel tips
- Distance of Anstruther from St. Andrews UK: 10 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by car
- How to get there from St. Andrews UK: You can take the Stagecoach Bus 95 from St. Andrews Bus Station to Anstruther. Alternatively, you can drive along the A917 road. The nearest train station is Leuchars Railway Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Anstruther
Exploring Anstruther: Things to do
Anstruther, a charming coastal town in Scotland, is a must-see destination for those seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and delicious seafood. One of the top attractions in Anstruther is the Scottish Fisheries Museum, where visitors can learn about the rich maritime heritage of the area. Stroll along the picturesque harbor and watch the fishing boats come and go, or visit the Anstruther Lifeboat Station to see the brave volunteers in action.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Anstruther offers stunning coastal walks with breathtaking views of the North Sea. Don’t miss a visit to the Anstruther Golf Club, where you can tee off against a backdrop of rolling green hills and crashing waves. After a day of exploration, indulge in a seafood feast at one of the town’s renowned fish and chip shops, such as the award-winning Anstruther Fish Bar.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the sea, Anstruther has something for everyone. Plan your day trip to this hidden gem on the Scottish coast and discover the beauty and charm of Anstruther for yourself.
