Best known as the Home of Golf, St Andrews also offers rich history, coastal charm, and a thriving food and drink scene. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or looking for a unique day out, here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in St Andrews and the surrounding East Neuk — with a few recommendations from our own corner of Fife.
Soak Up the History in the Heart of Town
Start your visit in the centre of St Andrews, where cobbled lanes lead you from ancient university buildings to dramatic medieval ruins. Explore St Andrews Cathedral and climb St Rule’s Tower for panoramic views over the North Sea, or visit the clifftop remains of the town’s historic castle. Along the way, enjoy a coffee or pastry from one of the town’s many independent cafés, bakeries, or bookshops.
Walk the Fife Coastal Path
For fresh air and sea views, the Fife Coastal Path offers some of Scotland’s most rewarding walking routes. The section between Kingsbarns and Crail is ideal for a half-day walk, with quiet beaches, rock pools, and even the chance of spotting seals along the way. End your stroll in one of the picturesque East Neuk villages with a seafood lunch or a pint overlooking the harbour.
Visit Kingsbarns Distillery: Whisky and Gin with Character
Just 15 minutes from St Andrews, Kingsbarns Distillery is one of the top-rated things to do near St Andrews for whisky and gin lovers. It’s home to Kingsbarns Single Malt — crafted just a stone’s throw from the coast — and Darnley’s Gin, distilled in a charming cottage using botanicals grown onsite.
Whether you’re interested in a whisky tasting near St Andrews, a behind-the-scenes distillery tour, or a hands-on blending experience with Wemyss Malts, there’s something here for every spirit enthusiast.
Highlights include:
Kingsbarns Distillery Tours and Tastings
The Wemyss Malts Blending Experience
Darnley’s Gin Cottage, Garden and Still House Tour
Distillery shop with exclusive bottlings, gift sets, and locally sourced products
Kingsbarns is an ideal stop on any St Andrews itinerary — a place to slow down, sip, and discover the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
Discover the Villages of the East Neuk
A short drive from St Andrews takes you to the string of charming fishing villages that make up the East Neuk of Fife. Crail, Pittenweem, and Anstruther each offer something unique: traditional stone harbours, art galleries, seafood restaurants, and a relaxed coastal pace. These villages are perfect for exploring on foot, browsing local makers, or enjoying a fish supper by the sea.
Take to the Greens — or Simply Take it In
Golf in St Andrews is world-famous, but you don’t have to play the Old Course to enjoy the experience. Kingsbarns Golf Links is a standout destination, combining dramatic views with a superb course. Nearby options like Elie, Anstruther, and Crail provide something for every level of golfer — or spectator. And with Kingsbarns Distillery just minutes from the links, it’s easy to make a full day of it.
Take Home a Taste of St Andrews
Before heading home, visit the Kingsbarns Distillery shop to pick up something truly reflective of the region. From our Kingsbarns Single Malt — the signature whisky of St Andrews — to exclusive single cask releases and Wemyss Malts’ beautifully crafted blended malts that showcase the flavour profiles of Scotland’s whisky regions, there’s something here for every whisky lover.
For gin drinkers, the Darnley’s Gin Distillery Cottage offers a bright, elegant range led by citrus and elderflower botanicals. You can even garnish your serve with herbs grown in our own garden. With distillery exclusives, thoughtful gift ideas, and a setting rooted in Fife’s coastal countryside, it’s a fitting final stop before your journey home.
Ready to plan your visit?
Book your whisky or gin experience, explore our full range of tours, and find more inspiration at
www.kingsbarnsdistillery.com/pages/visit-our-distillery