St Andrews, located in the Kingdom of Fife in Scotland, is a picturesque coastal town known for its historic charm and stunning landscapes. While the town is famous for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, there are plenty of great things to do indoors. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich history of St Andrews, indulge in local spirits, or keep the kids entertained on a rainy day, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at 20 great things to do indoors around St Andrews, including discovering hidden gems, exploring museums, joining art classes, and more. So, let’s dive in and discover the vibrant indoor activities that St Andrews has to offer.
Discovering St Andrews’ Hidden Gems
St Andrews is home to many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Explore the town’s historic past at the secret bunker, a Cold War-era underground museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s history. Explore the R&A World Golf Museum
A visit to St Andrews wouldn’t be complete without exploring the R&A World Golf Museum. The museum is near the Old Course, a treasure trove of golfing history. Step inside and discover the sport’s rich heritage, from its humble beginnings to its global significance. Learn about the evolution of the Old Course, often referred to as the “home of golf,” and its role in shaping the game. With its engaging displays and immersive experiences, the R&A World Golf Museum offers a fascinating insight into golf and its deep-rooted connection to St Andrews. Additionally, be sure to visit the St Andrews Museum to explore the town’s medieval past and present, located in the stunning Victorian mansion of Kinburn Park.
Taste the Spirits of Scotland at Distillery Tours
Visit Eden Mill, a distillery known for its craft gin and beer, and immerse yourself in the distilling world. Take a guided tour and learn about the distillation process, from sourcing local botanicals to creating unique flavours. Sample their award-winning spirits and discover your new favourite drink.
Another highlight is Kingsbarns Distillery, located near the famous golf course. This whisky and gin distillery is nestled in an 18th-century farm steading, offering a charming setting for a tour. Explore the exhibition, learn about the distillation techniques, and savour the rich flavours of their spirits.
Uncover Scotland’s Secret Bunker’s Mysteries
Step back in time and uncover the mysteries of Scotland’s Secret Bunker, a hidden gem just a short drive from St Andrews. Built during the Cold War era, this underground museum offers a unique glimpse into the country’s history and the measures taken to protect Scotland in the event of a nuclear attack.
A visit to Scotland’s Secret Bunker is a truly immersive experience, allowing you to step into the shoes of those who lived during the tense Cold War period. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and preparations made to ensure the safety and security of the nation. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore a hidden piece of Scotland’s history.
Family Fun Indoors
St Andrews offers plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy indoors. Gather the family for a delicious meal at one of the town’s cosy restaurants or cafes, where you can savour local cuisine and spend quality time together. Engage in fun activities such as arts and crafts workshops, where children can unleash their creativity. Keep an eye out for themed activities and events, especially during holidays like Easter, when you can join exciting egg hunts and themed celebrations.
Child-Friendly Activities at St Andrew’s Aquarium
For a day of underwater exploration, head to St Andrews Aquarium. Nestled on the town’s seafront, adjacent to West Sands Beach, the aquarium offers an immersive experience for children and adults alike. Discover the diverse marine life that inhabits the Scottish coast, from colourful fish to fascinating sea creatures.
After exploring the exhibits, take a break at the onsite café, which offers a selection of tasty cakes, sandwiches, and snacks. With its interactive displays and engaging activities, St Andrews Aquarium promises a day of educational fun for the whole family.
St Andrews Botanic Garden
St Andrews Botanic Garden has announced plans to develop new areas for education, research, and community development at the heart of the garden. These efforts are part of the ongoing project to refresh the garden’s plant collections and buildings. The proposed plans include repurposing the existing Potting Sheds into spaces for education and research, constructing new restrooms that are accessible to everyone, building new workshops for gardeners, and creating a large green roof which will feature specialist alpine plants. watching captivating science shows, and engaging in educational workshops led by knowledgeable staff. The centre also hosts themed upcoming events, offering even more opportunities for immersive learning.
The Byre Theatre
The Byre Theatre is a cultural hub in St Andrews, offering diverse performances from theatre and music to dance and comedy. Watch for upcoming shows and workshops that provide a unique and enriching experience for the whole family during your stay in St Andrews!
Wardlaw Museum St Andrews
Nestled in the heart of St Andrews, Wardlaw Museum is a hidden gem showcasing a fascinating collection of historical artefacts and artworks. The museum offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage from ancient relics to modern masterpieces. Explore the exhibits, attend insightful lectures, and participate in interactive tours to make the most of your visit to this cultural haven.
Discover V&A Dundee
Renowned as a hub of creativity and innovation, V&A Dundee is a must-visit cultural attraction near St Andrews. Explore the museum’s unique architecture and waterfront location, providing a truly inspiring setting for visitors.
Gain insights into Scotland’s design heritage and marvel at the diverse collection of displayed objects. From interactive installations to thought-provoking displays, V&A Dundee offers a blend of education and entertainment for all ages. Don’t miss upcoming events and workshops that promise to ignite your creativity.
Falkland Palace
Venture back at Falkland Palace, a historic gem near St Andrews. Explore this royal residence’s stunning architecture and lush gardens, which have witnessed centuries of Scottish history. Watch for special events and guided tours offering deeper insight into this fascinating heritage site.
Kellie Castle
Immerse yourself in history and culture with a visit to Kellie Castle, a charming estate steeped in Scottish heritage located near St Andrews. Explore the well-preserved rooms filled with antiques, original artworks, and intricate details that glimpse the past. Keep an eye out for seasonal events and activities that add an extra layer of charm to your visit to Kellie Castle.
Explore the Bell Pettigrew Museum of Natural History
Located within the University of St Andrews’ Bute Medical Building, the Bell Pettigrew Museum houses a remarkable collection of taxidermy specimens, showcasing the wonders of the animal kingdom. From majestic lions to colourful birds and exotic insects, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the diversity of the natural world. A visit to the Bell Pettigrew Museum is a must for nature lovers and those curious about the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Join an Art Class at East Neuk Art Galleries
Located in the charming coastal region of East Neuk, just a short drive from St Andrews, these galleries offer a unique opportunity to learn from talented local artists.
Sign up for a class and unleash your artistic potential under the guidance of experienced instructors. Learn various techniques and explore different art forms, from painting and drawing to pottery and sculpture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, the classes cater to all skill levels and provide a supportive and inspiring environment.
Craft Your Own Creations in Local Workshops
Join a pottery workshop at Crail Pottery and learn the art of shaping clay into beautiful pottery pieces. Discover the techniques of jewellery making and create your own personalized accessories. Try candle making or soap making and craft unique scented creations.
These workshops offer a chance to learn new skills, connect with local artisans, and take home a special souvenir crafted by your own hands.
Indulge in Indoor Golf at St Andrews Indoor Golf Centre
Experience the thrill of golfing without stepping on the St Andrews Indoor Golf Centre course. Perfect for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels, this state-of-the-art facility offers a range of virtual golf experiences on some of the best courses in the world. The centre is staffed by PGA professionals who can provide guidance and advice to enhance your golfing skills.
Discover Maritime History at the Scottish Fisheries Museum
Step into the world of Scotland’s fishing heritage at the Scottish Fisheries Museum in the beautiful coastal village of Anstruther. Housed in 16th-century buildings that have been used for fishing since the 14th century, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the history, culture, and importance of fishing to the East Coast of Scotland’s economy.
Explore the exhibits and learn about the different fishing methods, fishermen’s lives, and the fishing industry’s impact on local communities. The museum courtyard is also home to a bustling restaurant and café where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a traditional Scottish seafood dish.
Relax at East Sands Leisure Centre
If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, head to East Sands Leisure Centre in St Andrews. This family-friendly leisure centre offers a range of facilities and activities for all ages. For added excitement, visit during disco swim evenings, where large inflatables turn the pool into a child-friendly “total wipeout” course.
Stay Active at Saints Sport Facility
For fitness enthusiasts and those looking to stay active, the All Saints Sport Facility at the University of St Andrews offers state-of-the-art facilities and a range of sports activities.
The facility boasts a pool, tennis courts, badminton courts, a climbing wall, and a well-equipped fitness suite. Whether you prefer swimming laps, playing tennis, or testing your climbing skills, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Best Indoor Activities for Families in St Andrews?
For families visiting St Andrews, the best indoor activities include visiting St Andrews Aquarium, the perfect place to explore the underwater world on a rainy day. East Sands Leisure Centre also offers a range of pool activities suitable for all ages. There are also plenty of indoor activities, such as arts and crafts workshops and themed activities.
Can You Recommend Indoor Venues for History Enthusiasts?
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting St Andrews Castle, St Andrews Cathedral, and Scotland’s Secret Bunker. These venues offer a unique insight into the town’s rich history, from medieval castles to ancient cathedrals and the hidden secrets of the Cold War.
Are There Any Unique Indoor Experiences in St Andrews?
St Andrews offers unique indoor experiences, such as afternoon tea in front of a roaring fire at the Old Course Hotel, watching a show at the Byre Theatre, or catching a film at the historic New Picture House cinema in the heart of St Andrews. These venues provide a cosy and memorable experience.
St Andrews offers a range of exciting indoor activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring the town’s hidden gems and delving into the history of golf to indulging in the spirits of Scotland and discovering the mysteries of Scotland’s Secret Bunker, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Families can blast at St Andrews Aquarium and East Sands Leisure Centre, while history enthusiasts can explore St Andrews Castle, St Andrews Cathedral, and the Scottish Fisheries Museum. If you’re interested in art classes, local workshops, indoor golf, or relaxing at the leisure centre, St Andrews has it all. So, next time you find yourself in St Andrews on a rainy day or simply looking for indoor activities, be sure to check out these 20 great things to do indoors and make the most of your time in this charming Scottish town.