The Town Centre

St Andrews Town Centre is concentrated across two main streets.  These streets are home to shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.  You will recognise many big brand names – Boots, Trespass, Tesco, H&M and Waterstones to name a few.  However, besides these there are plenty of smaller independent retailers to browse through and for you to treat yourself or find a unique souvenir.

St Andrews Castle and St Andrews Cathedral

Located in the town centre these two Historic Scotland sites are definitely worth a visit – ask about an entry ticket to cover both locations.


The ruins and graveyard are free to enter and wonder around, if you are feeling fit St Rules tower is worth the climb for outstanding views of St Andrews town and surrounding area.


Don’t forget to count the steps as you climb!

Eating and Drinking

St Andrews town centre has a wealth of cafes and restaurants.  I love the fact that despite being such a busy town there are so many independent establishments.  We recently had to have a family vote to decide which two restaurants we would visit; we have our favourites that we have visited over the years but there are plenty of new ones that we have yet to visit.  Winners for our family dinners are Little Italy (you’ll most likely need to book in advance), Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant (what a friendly welcome we receive) – I think the girls choose here to see the goldfish swimming in a sunken indoor pond and finally Ziggy’s with a varied American themed menu there is something to suit everyone.


If you fancy something lighter – brunch or coffee and cake.  I would recommend The North Point Café (there’s a huge selection of cakes and scones in the window), The Café In the Square (great freshly made sandwiches) and Bibi’s Café – super for breakfast/ brunch with freshly made milkshakes and smoothies on offer.

Or if you are looking for food on the go my girls would insist on visiting Dr Noodles or Le Rendez-vous Creperie.

And who goes on holiday without stopping for ice-cream?  Janetta’s is definitely worth a visit.