St Andrews Golf Oriented History Tours: Insight into Golf and Historic Landmarks
4.9
95 Ratings
Fife
Discover the rich history of St Andrews and its connection to golf on these engaging and informative tours. Led by renowned historian Richard Falconer, explore historic landmarks and learn about the origins of the game. Book now!
Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Hotel du Vin St Andrews - Tours start here with your guide, author and historian Richard Falconer.
  • University of St Andrews - Learn about Scotland’s oldest University established 1413. Visit St Salvator’s College and University Chapel.
  • St Andrews Cathedral - Learn about the iconic ruins of the Cathedral.
    Monday to Thursday - November to March: You will hear about its history from the outside as the Cathedral grounds are closed.

Friday to Sunday - November to March and 7 days a week April to October: You will walk amid the ruins and have the opportunity to pay your respects to golfing greats Old and Young Tom Morris, Allan Robertson and Jamie Anderson.

  • St Andrews Castle - Find out about this former Bishops Palace.
  • Old Course - Learn about the evolution of both golf and Old Course development, together with some of the adjoining landmarks.
  • Swilcan Bridge - Tours finish with a photo opportunity on the famous bridge with details of nearby iconic buildings.
What's Included
  • Guidance from Richard Falconer, professional English speaking guide, author, and historian
Additional Information

Guided tours are scheduled at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm, available every day of the year (refer to booking calendar for any exceptions).

Your tour guide will be Richard Falconer, an author and historian, who comes highly recommended by renowned St Andrews Golf Historian and writer, David Joy.

These tours offer a golf-centered historical exploration of St Andrews, providing a comprehensive understanding of what sets St Andrews apart.

These excursions have something to offer for all attendees.

While golfing aficionados typically possess extensive knowledge about golf in St Andrews, these tours highlight obscure aspects of the sport. Additionally, even those with minimal interest in golf will find the tours engaging, since they delve into the broader history of St Andrews.

Apart from being recognized as the ‘Home of Golf’, St Andrews was also the center of the Catholic Church in Scotland for 419 years. This led to the establishment of the Cathedral and the Palace, Scotland’s first University in 1413, as well as the initial supporters of the sport of golf.

  • A fluent command of English is essential for all participants. Speaking slowly or translating does not work
  • Under 5s free, not suitable for under 2s
  • Not suitable for Baby strollers/carriages
  • There is nowhere to leave any of the above or golf clubs etc while on tour so make other arrangements and do not ask!
  • As part of your tour, you will be by the Old Course and walk across the 1st/18th fairway. You will do this at your own risk and you must keep an eye out for golf balls during live play!
  • Not suitable for travelers with walking difficulties (walking slowly)
  • Not suitable for hip/knee problems, sprained ankles, walking frames, crutches or mobility scooters
Location
Hotel du Vin St Andrews
The Scores
Please be on time as the tours will not wait. All tours start outside Hotel du Vin on the Scores.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(95 Ratings)
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Tweekies
Dec 1, 2023
Very informative and fun - Whether it was the season or the weather, this turned out to be a solo tour, which was amazing. Richard has a wealth of knowledge, not only for the history and intricacies of golf, but how its history intertwined with Saint Andrews cathedral. Enjoyed hearing about St. Andrews University and caught the graduation procession. When the rain started pelting down, had a coffee in the delightful Niblets restaurant and finished off the tour on the Old course. Great day and tour guide. Wealth of information, I only wish I could remember more of it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Milyno20
Oct 21, 2023
St. Andrews City and Golf Tour - What a great tour! Nice, slightly upbeat walk-through of St. Andrews, ending up at the infamous Swilcan Bridge! Richard's knowledge of the game of golf as well as the city sites makes this more than just a sightseeing walk. You will hear great stories about the city, university, cathedral, and the origins of the game of golf. The highlight for any golfer, of course, is stepping onto the famed Old and Ancient and having a photo taken standing on the historic Swilcan! A must-tour if you are visiting Scotland.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
David_w
Oct 16, 2023
Superb tour of St Andrews and the history of golf - Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable of St. Andrews and golf history. He also offered to take pictures of us at the Old Course! I could not have asked for a better experience!!!
Review provided by Viator
Francoist423
Oct 14, 2023
Amazing experience, great information and wonderful presentation. I really enjoyed combination of golf and local info - Had a wonderful tour. Blustery weather combined with an abundance of interesting facts about the game we love. This all was presented in a hugely informative and entertaining way
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Graeme_c
Oct 8, 2023
A must do ! - Being in St Andrew's during the Dunolly cup wirh Richard as our guide he enhanced the whole experience
Review provided by Viator
Sarah_h
Oct 6, 2023
Great Tour! - Loved this tour! It was very informative and entertaining. Would recommend for anyone interested in the history of golf and St Andrews
Review provided by Viator
Addin_t
Sep 27, 2023
Walking around St Andrew... - Walking around St Andrew old town and Old course was a wonderful Experience , not just for golf afficionado
Review provided by Viator
Vicki_j
Sep 18, 2023
Interesting and informative! - Richard was a great tour guide. I liked the mix of town history and golf history. The pace of the tour allowed for photo stops, but kept us moving. I enjoyed the rich history of St. Andrew’s.
Review provided by Viator
Phil_s
Sep 16, 2023
Excellent guide - Richard is an excellent historian. He made the tour exciting for all of us. He added tidbits about the town and university as well as golf. It was a very enjoyable experience!
Review provided by Viator
Karen_g
Sep 21, 2023
St. Andrews Olde Course - Standing on the most famous bridge of golf. Learning a little about the history of the game. Visiting the beautiful university grounds
Review provided by Viator
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May 2024
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