St Andrews Golf Oriented History Tours: Insight into Golf and Historic Landmarks
4.9
99 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 front entrance 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
(99 Ratings)
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Robin_a
May 27, 2024
Great tour! - Seeing the Old Course in person. Picture at Swilcan Bridge. Richard was a great guide! The tour was wonderful!
Review provided by Viator
Donald_r
May 11, 2024
St. Andrews on the fly - Visit and tour was the highlight of our ten-day visit to other spectacular stops in London, Edinburgh and Dublin. Knowing this is a "bucket list" priority for millions of golfers and tourists, our guide Richard was an entertaining historical authority on St. Andrews, the university and the origins of the game. We could not be more pleased and highly recommend this tour if you want see and learn the most during a brief visit to St. Andrews.
Review provided by Viator
Lisa_b
May 11, 2024
Fun Day in St Andrews - We enjoyed our tour very much. Very knowledgeable and passionate on history of Golf and St Andrews. Visited all the noted landmarks. Great. Thank you for suggestions Jiggers Inn for lunch and a round of miniature golf. We enjoyed!
Review provided by Viator
Companion22332399820
May 8, 2024
Amazing tour! - Highly recommend this tour! Richard was the best, very knowledgeable. Learned many interesting facts about golf and St Andrews, and the views were stunning!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Suebee4
May 1, 2024
Highly recommend! - Richard is a great tour guide. We learned much about the town of St Andrews, and the game of golf (Our golfing men will forever hate the sheep for their invention of a bunker). ;)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ann
Apr 28, 2024
Highly recommended Tour - Richard’s extensive knowledge and wit made the tour very enjoyable. As history buffs we were fascinated by all that St. Andrew’s has to offer - past present and future. Thank you Richard for a memorable experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Julie_f
Apr 27, 2024
Great tour - The tour was excellent. Our tour guide had many stories and great information. The group was 7-9 and a perfect size to hear the guide and make our way through town. I highly recommend this tour for anyone - not just golfers - but a great all around town tour
Review provided by Viator
Janet_l
Apr 24, 2024
Perfect tour and guide! - Great tour, Richard was very knowledgeable and showed pictures along the way that pertained to the tour. Gave a great over view of St Andrews golf and the town. Richard also took the time to take pictures of the different groups with our cameras at the significant points.
Review provided by Viator
Janice_r
Apr 22, 2024
Amazing tour! - This tour was excellent in reviewing the development of the game and as a bonus covered the St. Andrews Cathedral and pilgrimage. Highly recommend this tour for a better understanding of the historic importance of St. Andrews.
Review provided by Viator
Thomas_w
May 9, 2024
Very good tour - Our guide was very knowledgeable and pleasant. We were amazed about how much history the area had. Recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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