Saint Andrews, one of the most charming towns in Scotland

Saint-Andrews
I recognize that I cannot be objective when it comes to talking about Scotland . It is a country that I fell in love with and I plan to return one day, and that I already had the great luck of traveling a large part of its territory in a one-week route . It is true that I did not stop traveling kilometers with the car and that tires, but it is also true that every day I woke up with the motivation of going to see something precious.

One of those beauties is called Saint Andrews . It is a small coastal town of just over 16,000 inhabitants that I recommend you go to, and not only because it is one of the oldest towns in Scotland.

Cathedral and castle demolished

Don’t expect to see a well-preserved cathedral or a castle as incredible as Glamis Castle. In Saint Andrews both buildings were reduced to ruins , something that in my opinion also has its charm. The cathedral, which began to be built in the 12th century and was not finished until 1318, became the largest building in the country. All until the religious reform of the 16th century, which led to a looting that ended with the cathedral and the popularity of the town, which at that time was one of the most important in Scotland.

cathedral-of-Saint-Andrews

A renowned university

The University of Saint Andrews is not just any university. It opened its doors in the 15th century , between 1410 and 1413, and today it continues to function divided into four faculties: Arts, Theology, Science and Medicine. It is the oldest in Scotland and one of the oldest in the United Kingdom, as well as being very prestigious. It is attended by students from all over the United Kingdom and even the United States.

university-of-Saint-Andrews

The cradle of golf

Golf lovers know that Sanint Andrews is a must see. The town is considered the birthplace of golf, as there is the oldest golf club in the world, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, which was founded in 1754 under the name of the St. Andrews Golfers Society. .

university-of-Saint-Andrews

Historical Center

We are talking about a town that you can explore on foot without difficulties. I recommend you see the cathedral and the castle, but also walk through its historic center. There are only four streets and you can stop at bars and restaurants to take a break. Mind you, don’t expect a lot of variety.

There is also another area with newer housing designed for golf course staff and university students.

Saint-Adrews-street

Oceanic climate characterized by rains

As in any other place in Scotland, you should always carry an umbrella with you because of what may happen. Scots often leave it at home because they are used to it, but it never hurts to take it to get rid of a cold. That or putting on a raincoat, which in the end ends up being the most practical.

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