St. Andrews & Old Course Private Day Tour with Scottish Local

The Old Course at St. Andrews is the most famous golf course in world golf and the Mecca to which every golfer aspires to make pilgrimage at least once in a golfing lifetime. The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are recognised across the globe, yet the greatest feature of the Old Course is that despite its grand status it remains a public golf course, open to all.

Probably better known to visitors from around the world as The Himalayas, which is an apt description for this unique facility found in St Andrews, the home of golf, which lies adjacent to the famous Old Course, just 2 mins from the 1st Tee. The Club has a long and interesting history having been instituted in 1867 as the St Andrews Ladies' Golf Club and is open to the public. If you love golf, are limited for time but want an experience that will stay with you forever, then look no further for a fabulously fun 45 mins where everyone in your group can enjoy a true links Old Course putting experience like no other.

This historic building is steeped in history. It dates back to the 1850s, when it was the station master’s lodge and the history and heritage live on. Today the Jigger Inn is home to golfing memorabilia, crackling open-hearth fires, home-cooked food and a superb selection of Scottish beers – this is traditional Scottish pub hospitality at its very best. Fondly referred to as ‘the towns best 19th hole’ and much loved by the many celebrities who visit. The pub’s own ‘Jigger Ale’ is available only here and at The American Club in Wisconson USA. Reservations are required, please advise if this location is wanted for lunch during the tour. There are alternatives available if required.

The Castle is the ruins of the castle of the Archbishops of St. Andrews, dating in part from the 13th century. On a headland to the north of St. Andrews stand the ruins of the city’s castle, the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St. Andrews. Explore the 16th-century siege mine, and the ‘bottle dungeon’, one of the most infamous castle prisons in medieval Britain, which was cut out of the solid rock.

The remains of St. Andrews Cathedral, which was Scotland’s largest cathedral and most magnificent church, show how impressive it used to be. The museum houses an outstanding collection of medieval sculptures and other relics found on the site, including the magnificent St. Andrews Sarcophagus of Pictish date. St. Rule’s Tower, in the precinct, is part of the first church of the Augustinian canons at St. Andrews built in the early 12th century. There are splendid views from the top of St. Andrews and the Fife Coast.

Home to Scotland’s first University and the third oldest university in the English-speaking world an integral part of the burgh and one of the UK’s most prestigious. Where Prince William met Kate Middleton while studying, the university played a significant role in their relationship.