St Andrews Tours: Town, Golf and Old Course History

Exploring St Andrews, often called the Home of Golf, is about much more than just swinging clubs. This highly praised tour offers a deep dive into the town’s centuries-old history, its legendary golf courses, and the iconic landmarks that make this place so special. Led by Richard Falconer, a local historian and former caddie, the tour balances engaging storytelling with authentic sites, offering a well-rounded experience for visitors.

What really sets this experience apart is Richard’s wealth of knowledge—many reviews highlight how fun, funny, and informative he is. The tour is also praised for its value at just over $23, especially given the quality of insights and photos you’ll come away with. On the flip side, it’s a walking tour that involves a fair bit of movement and some exposure to the elements, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet. If you love history, golf, or simply want to see the heart of St Andrews, this tour offers a fantastic way to spend nearly two hours in this historic town.

Key Points

• In-depth historical insights provided by a local author and historian
• Stunning sights including the Cathedral ruins, Castle, and Old Course
• Great value for the price, with a rundown of town and golf history
• Accessible for most but not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children
• Flexible timings allow you to fit the tour into your sightseeing schedule
• Photo opportunities at iconic landmarks like Swilcan Bridge

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

The tour begins at Hotel du Vin, a cozy, central location perfect for setting the tone. Here, Richard Falconer greets you with a friendly, engaging approach that makes even the most history-shy among us feel at ease. His background as an author and former caddie lends a genuine authenticity that shines through.

Walking Through St Andrews’ Historic University

Your first stop is the University of St Andrews, established back in 1413—making it Scotland’s oldest university. This site is a must-visit because it’s not just about the academics; it’s a key piece of the town’s identity. You’ll visit St Salvator’s College and the University Chapel, both offering charming architecture and stories that connect centuries of scholars, including some of the town’s most famous alumni. Several reviewers noted how Richard’s explanations made the university’s history come alive, making it more than just bricks and mortar.

The Iconic Cathedral Ruins

Next, you stroll to the St Andrews Cathedral, arguably the most picturesque ruin in town. These remains have witnessed countless historical moments, and Richard makes sure to tell stories about the notable figures buried here, including over 124 noted golfers. This is a spot that often leaves visitors impressed with its grandeur despite the ruins’ age. Reviewers often mention how Richard’s stories about the Old and Young Tom Morris, Allan Robertson, and Jamie Anderson deepen the appreciation for golf’s history here.

Discovering the Castle and the Birth of the Open

Walking to St Andrews Castle, you’ll learn about its role as a Bishop’s Palace and its significance in Scottish history. Richard connects the castle’s past to the origins of the Open Championship, sharing tales of golf legends like Tom Morris and how the tournament began right here. The walk between sites is lively and allows for questions, which many guests found valuable—especially as Richard shares anecdotes about famous players and the evolution of golf.

The Heart of Golf: The Old Course

This is the part of the tour many look forward to—the Old Course, the world’s oldest golf course. Over 40 minutes, you’ll learn about the development of the course and the game itself, along with the significance of landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge. The tour includes a walk across the 1st and 18th fairways, giving a real sense of the course’s atmosphere—though this is only possible outside tournament days. Reviewers emphasize how memorable it is to stand on the bridge and imagine the history and legends played here.

Final Photo at Swilcan Bridge

Concluding at the iconic Swilcan Bridge, you get a perfect photo op. Richard shares details about other notable buildings nearby, making the end of the tour as picturesque as the start. Guests frequently mention how they appreciated the photo opportunity and the chance to soak in the history one last time.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is designed for those who enjoy walking and have a moderate physical fitness level. Expect to cover a fair amount of ground—most of it on foot—so comfortable shoes are advised. The group size is kept at a maximum of 20, ensuring a more intimate experience where questions are encouraged.

Tour timing is flexible, with multiple departures allowing you to plan your day around other activities. The total duration is around 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a convenient option even if you’re short on time.

The tour begins at the Hotel du Vin and finishes at the Swilcan Bridge, right on the Old Course. Since it’s a mobile ticket, there’s no hassle with tickets—just show up at the meeting point. The tour is held entirely in English, so fluency is necessary for full engagement.

What’s Included and Not

All the sites—Cathedral, Castle, the University, Old Course—are free to explore during the tour, as the tour itself is just the guided walk. Visitors should be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces and be cautious around live golf play, as some walking involves crossing parts of the course during active hours.

Note that no facilities or storage are provided for personal belongings or golf clubs, so plan accordingly. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, young children under five, or anyone needing strollers or walking aids.

Authentic Experiences From Visitors

Many guests praise Richard as a “walking encyclopedia”, highlighting his ability to combine humor with detailed storytelling. One reviewer shared, “Richard was very informative and fun,” while another appreciated his willingness to take photos for guests.

A recurring theme in reviews is the value for money—at just over $23, the tour offers an insightful, engaging experience that covers both the town’s history and golf legends. Several visitors mention how the tour exceeded expectations, providing more than just sightseeing, but stories and insights that they will remember.

Some comments also point out the fast pace of the walk, which keeps things lively but can be tiring, especially in warm weather. A few reviewers mentioned issues like needing a restroom break or the difficulty for those with walking difficulties, so it’s best to come prepared.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour offers a fantastic balance of history, golf, and scenic beauty. It’s especially ideal for golf enthusiasts eager to learn about the origins of the game and walk the same grounds as legends. But even if you’re only mildly interested in golf or history, Richard’s engaging storytelling makes the experience accessible and enjoyable.

The tour is perfect for adults and older children who are comfortable walking and want a meaningful overview of St Andrews’ key sites. It’s a great value for the price, especially considering the depth of information and photo opportunities. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a small group, the intimate size and flexible schedule make it a convenient choice.

If you’re seeking an authentic, informative, and fun introduction to St Andrews, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s a chance to walk through centuries of history, see iconic landmarks, and get insider stories—making your visit to this legendary town even more memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
Not really. The tour involves a moderate amount of walking on uneven surfaces, so it’s best for those who are comfortable on their feet.

Can I join the tour with young children?
It’s not suitable for children under five, and very young kids might find the pace too fast or tiring.

Are golf clubs or personal belongings kept secure during the tour?
No, there is no storage available, so plan to carry your belongings with you.

Is the tour accessible during tournament days?
The tour visits the Swilcan Bridge, which is excluded during tournament days, but otherwise, it’s available at most times.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on questions and walking pace.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Hotel du Vin in St Andrews and finishes at the Swilcan Bridge on the Old Course.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, all commentary is in English, and fluency is required.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and bring weather-appropriate clothing as outdoor conditions vary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility.

In essence, this St Andrews Town, Golf, and Old Course History Tour is a rich, engaging experience that hits the sweet spot between affordability and depth of insight. Perfect for history buffs, golf lovers, and curious travelers alike—if you’re visiting St Andrews, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.