The perfect Spring Holiday in St Andrews

From Daffodils to Doughnuts: the perfect Spring Holiday in St Andrews

The Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley famously said “If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?”. Whilst we may still be immersed in the chilly climes of winter, wrapped up in big scarves and cosy blankets, there’s not long to go until the magical moment when the first bulbs emerge from the ground filled with the hope of new beginnings, warmer weather, and longer days of light. The colourful carpets of crocuses, snowdrops, anemones, hyacinths, and daffodils, together with the choruses of birds singing from the treetops and the energising rays of warm sunlight, are certainly something to look forward to.

St Andrews and the East Neuk are simply sublime in the spring

Check out our property availability for March, April, and May on our website, and also peruse our favourite activities and events for this special season below.

Stroll amongst the snowdrops at Cambo Estate

If you’re planning a holiday on the cusp of winter and spring, we would highly recommend The Scottish Snowdrop Festival at Cambo Estate. As you wander through the woodland and around the walled gardens towards the sea, you’ll see over 200 varieties of snowdrops on display. Simply stunning. Whilst you’re at Cambo Estate, why not visit their lovely café which is housed in the converted stables and serves up a delicious vegetarian menu centred on produce grown in the gardens?

Lap up the Lade Braes loop in St Andrews

Another lovely woodland walk is along the Lade Braes in St Andrews. This public footpath is part of the Fife Pilgrim Way, and has recently been widened and resurfaced to improve accessibility. It winds alongside the Kinness Burn out towards the western side of the town and, in the spring, boasts beautiful carpets of bluebells, daffodils, and late-winter snowdrops. Both the aforementioned walks are great options if you are holidaying with your family pooch. Do check out our dog-friendly accommodation options on our website!

Catch the Kate Kennedy Procession

The Kate Kennedy Procession is a costumed parade around the central streets of the town which celebrates the rich history of St Andrews. Locals and students alike dress up as scholars, monarchs, courtiers, bishops, golfers, and more! The procession is named after a fifteenth-century girl named Lady Katherine Kennedy who was supposedly so beautiful that students used to line the streets in the hope that they would catch a glimpse of her. Today, she is played by a male first-year student who arrives in a cart decorated with daffodils. This year’s event, the 97th Kate Kennedy Procession, will take place on Sunday, 2 April 2023. If you love history and tradition, this is not an event to be missed!

Enjoy a Jannettas Jaunt

Jannettas is a family-run gelateria that has been serving up delicious ice cream for over 100 years. With over 50 flavours on offer, you’ll be drooling as soon as you walk into their shop, which is situated at the cathedral end of South Street. They are constantly adding new flavours to their extensive menu — look out for their lighter spring sorbets and Easter-themed ice creams! Cone or tub? Fresh strawberries or coloured sprinkles? Chocolate sauce or fudge sauce? The options really are endless… you might need a second visit!

Fill up at Fisher & Donaldson

If you’re looking for another sweet treat stop, check out the traditional bakery Fisher & Donaldson on Church Street. They’re another family-run business which has been going for over 100 years! Famous for their fudge doughnuts, you can also pick up Easter eggs and other spring-themed treats in the shop or even head to their newly-opened café on South Street for a sit-in experience.

Last, but by no means least, having picked up some Easter eggs in town, why not organise an Easter egg hunt around your rental apartment, cottage, or house?

This fun tradition is always a big hit with adults and children alike — and, if you’re holidaying earlier in the year, why not make it a ‘Spring Search’ instead?

Book now to celebrate new beginnings, warmer weather, longer days, and beautiful blooms!