University of St. Andrews

The basics

The St. Andrews courtyard and gardens are open to the public, and visitors are welcome to wander the university's landscaped grounds and admire the historic buildings from outside. Its university buildings, including St. Salvator’s Chapel and the Wardlaw Museum, are scattered around town. Prospective students can book student-led tours of the storied institution through the university. Guided walking tours of St. Andrews typically include the university and stops at the Old Course and St. Andrews Cathedral.

Things to know before you go

• Tours take place outside, so prepare for the Scottish weather by wearing layers and a waterproof jacket.

• The university's official website is a good resource for information on campus tours, exhibitions, and other activities.

• While some of the university’s historic buildings may be difficult for people using wheelchairs to access, many public buildings, including the Wardlaw Museum, are accessible.

How to get there

St. Andrews is around a 90-minute drive from Edinburgh on Scotland's northeast coast. However, parking can be tricky in St. Andrews, so taking public transportation is a good idea. You can take the train from Edinburgh to Leuchars and catch a bus or taxi to St. Andrews. You can easily explore the town on foot.

When to get there

With their mild temperatures and long daylight hours, spring and summer are the best times to visit St. Andrews—and the most popular. As such, finding accommodation can be tricky in the summer, especially for St. Andrews University graduation week in late June. The shoulder months of April and September are good alternative options.

Wardlaw Museum

The university’s Wardlaw Museum takes visitors on a journey through St. Andrews’ history in its four galleries, which display the university’s art, history, science, and natural history collections. The museum also offers a changing program of temporary exhibitions. Set between two beaches, the museum offers sea views from its terrace and garden.