St Andrews City Guide

Seafood and Scottish dishes like haggis and shortbread are must-tries. There is good international variety with Italian, Indian, and Chinese options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are common. Few places serve late at night except student takeaways.

Nightlife centers on the student crowd, with pubs, bars, and some clubs, but options are limited compared to bigger cities.

Good coffee scene with several specialty cafes and popular chains, buoyed by the student population.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Around 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge. Taxis and services usually get small tips.

You can buy SIM cards at convenience stores or online. Main providers with good coverage are EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. Prepaid SIMs usually don't need ID for purchase.

Town is clean with well-maintained streets and good waste services.

Few 24/7 services. Some stores have extended hours, but most close early. Emergency care available via hospital.

Supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi, and M&S Food stock international products. Local shops and a farmers' market offer fresh produce. Shops open mostly 7/8 AM to 10/11 PM on weekdays, shorter hours on Sundays.

Card payments work almost everywhere, so you rarely need cash here.

ATMs from Bank of Scotland, Royal Bank of Scotland, and TSB are common on Market Street and South Street. Withdrawals at local ATMs usually have no fees, but check for charges from your own bank.

The University of St Andrews is world-class. Local primary and secondary schools include Madras College. St Leonards offers an international baccalaureate. English is the main language.

Small digital nomad scene with few dedicated events or spaces. Some nomad-friendly cafés are present.

Excellent parks and green areas, including Craigtoun Country Park and university grounds.

Popular coastal and town routes. Safe with good air quality. Running groups exist.

Several gyms offer fitness and pool facilities, suitable for residents and visitors.

Tennis courts available at university and clubs, usually by booking.

Padel courts are rare and mostly outside the town.

Several yoga studios offer drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Martial arts clubs exist offering judo, karate, and taekwondo, usually with English-speaking instructors.

No local skiing; resorts are several hours away by car.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at local beaches. Rentals may be seasonal.

West Sands offers gentle waves good for beginners. Water is cold year-round, so a wetsuit is needed. Surf schools and rentals are available.

Diving spots exist along Fife coast though St Andrews is not a main hub. Marine life includes seals and fish. Best in summer.

Local care at St Andrews Community Hospital is good. For more serious issues, larger hospitals like Ninewells in Dundee are nearby. Pharmacies like Boots and Lloyds cover most needs. Staff speak English.

Tap water here is safe to drink and tastes good.

The town has playgrounds, kid-friendly cafés, and family attractions like the British Golf Museum and Aquarium.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is strong with inclusive environments and legal protections.

Pet-friendly especially for dogs, with many walking areas and pet services.