Get More From Your St. Andrews Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in St. Andrews gives you the perfect base to explore Scotland's historic golfing capital whilst enjoying luxury self catering accommodation. The town sits on the Fife coast and offers everything from medieval ruins to championship golf courses. You'll find boutique cottages and lodges with private hot tubs scattered throughout the area.
St. Andrews works brilliantly for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. The compact town centre means you can walk everywhere. Beach walks stretch for miles. The variety of holiday cottages to rent ranges from secluded coastal cottages for 2 to large holiday houses sleeping big groups.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in St. Andrews
St. Andrews has been a pilgrimage site since medieval times and became the home of golf in the 15th century. The University of St. Andrews was founded in 1413 and remains Scotland's oldest university. Three medieval streets form the town's backbone and lead down to the ruined cathedral that once dominated Scottish religious life.
This compact coastal town suits hot tub stays perfectly because you can pack your days with sightseeing then return to your cottage with hot tub for evening relaxation. The mix of history and natural beauty means there's plenty for everyone whether you're after culture or outdoor adventures.
Sightseeing in St. Andrews
The town transformed from religious centre to golfing mecca over centuries but kept its medieval character intact. North Street and South Street still follow their original medieval routes. St. Andrews Castle perches on rocky cliffs overlooking the North Sea. The harbour area bustles with fishing boats and cafes. West Sands beach stretches north for two miles and featured in Chariots of Fire.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in St. Andrews
St. Andrews packs remarkable variety into a small area. You'll find world-famous golf courses alongside ancient ruins and pristine beaches. These five attractions showcase what makes the town special.
The Old Course
The Old Course is golf's most famous venue and has hosted The Open Championship 30 times. You can walk across it for free on Sundays when play stops. The Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole is golf's most photographed spot. Book tee times months ahead or try the daily ballot.
St. Andrews Cathedral
This ruined cathedral was once Scotland's largest building and the centre of Scottish Christianity. Construction started in 1158 and took 160 years to complete. The site includes St. Rule's Tower which you can climb for panoramic views across Fife. The museum displays medieval sculptures and Pictish stones.
St. Andrews Castle
The castle ruins sit on cliffs with dramatic sea views. You can explore the bottle dungeon carved from solid rock and the mine and counter-mine tunnels from a 16th-century siege. The visitor centre explains the castle's role in Scottish Reformation history. Cardinal Beaton was murdered here in 1546.
West Sands Beach
This two-mile sandy beach offers space even on busy days. The dunes back the beach and provide shelter from wind. Dog friendly year-round and perfect for morning walks before returning to your holiday house. The beach links to coastal paths heading north towards the Eden Estuary.
British Golf Museum
The museum sits opposite the Old Course and tells golf's 500-year story. Exhibits include ancient clubs and balls plus interactive displays. You'll learn how golf spread from Scotland worldwide. The collection covers everything from medieval stick-and-ball games to modern championships.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| The Old Course | Walk the world's most famous golf course and cross the iconic Swilcan Bridge | Everyone |
| St. Andrews Cathedral | Explore medieval ruins and climb St. Rule's Tower for coastal views | Families |
| St. Andrews Castle | Discover siege tunnels and dungeons carved into clifftop rocks | Everyone |
| West Sands Beach | Walk miles of sandy beach with dogs and enjoy the famous Chariots of Fire location | Families |
| British Golf Museum | Learn golf's complete history through interactive displays and historic artifacts | Couples |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to St. Andrews?
Edinburgh Airport sits 50 miles south with direct buses taking 2 hours. Driving from Edinburgh takes 90 minutes via the M90 and A91. Leuchars railway station is 5 miles away with regular buses into town. Glasgow is 90 miles west.
What family activities are available?
West Sands beach offers rock pooling and sandcastle building. The aquarium shows local marine life. Craigtoun Country Park has adventure playgrounds and boating. Many holiday lets and lodges welcome families and some include swimming pool access.
Where are the best romantic spots?
The castle ruins at sunset provide dramatic backdrops. Pier Walk offers harbour views and leads to secluded coastal paths. Book a table at The Seafood Restaurant overlooking West Sands. Return to your retreat with jacuzzi for the evening.
What shopping is available?
South Street and Market Street have independent shops selling Scottish crafts and clothing. Several golf shops stock equipment and branded gear. Farmers markets run regularly. You'll find everything needed for self catering cottage breaks.
Are hot tub cottages suitable year-round?
Absolutely. Winter brings dramatic coastal weather perfect for hot tub breaks. Spring sees golf season start. Summer offers long daylight hours and beach weather. New year in St. Andrews is magical. Pet friendly cottages with hot tubs let you bring dogs whatever the season.
St. Andrews combines world-class attractions with the comfort of luxury cottages and holiday homes. Whether you're after cheap cottages for last minute deals or unique boutique properties for special occasions, the town delivers. Book your cottage rental and discover why this coastal gem attracts visitors year-round. The combination of history and relaxation in your own private hot tub makes St. Andrews an unbeatable destination for group cottages or intimate getaways.