The University of St Andrews was the first university established in Scotland over 600 years ago. Consequently, it is not only home to esteemed learning; it is a place with many beautiful historic buildings.
There are many academic schools in various buildings around town. Firstly, The Scores where you can see the grand buildings that house the students who are studying courses such as History, English and Moral Philosophy, to name a few. You will also be able to see the bandstand and Martyr’s Monument.
You can also look around the ruined cathedral. It opens at the same times as the castle but free of charge! However, St Rule’s Tower costs up to £3.50. From here you can walk to St Mary’s Quad on South Street. It’s open daily and provides information on its fascinating past. The quad itself is beautiful with an impressive oak tree in the centre.
Finally, the quad is the heart of the University. It’s the oldest remaining part and dates back to the 15th century. Although, on the entrance to the quad, be careful not to step on the PH initials of Patric Hamilton. It’s said to have been a curse when Patrick Hamilton, who was burnt to death many years ago on that spot for teaching anti-religious classes!
For more information about the University of St Andrews, visit their website www.st-andrews.ac.uk. In addition to this, keep up-to-date with our latest news on the Stay in St Andrews Twitter feed.