St Andrews is such a lovely spot to visit. This charming coastal town on Scotland’s east coast is known for being the home of golf, fantastic seafood and the university which houses thousands of students every year. Whether you are in St Andrews for golf at the old course or just want to experience the seaside charm, there are some lovely hotels and spots to stay for your trip to this part of Scotland ranging from luxury 5 star service to boutique rooms in the city centre. Let me share my recommendations for the hotels that I think enhance your time in St Andrews the best.
This guide to the best hotels in St Andrews in Scotland will be continuously updated as I discover more places and was last updated in November 2026.
The best hotels in St Andrews in Scotland
St Andrews is a fairly small town in Scotland so the accommodation options are fairly limited in numbers, but even so the options range from 5 star luxury hotels right by the golf courses to cosy boutique venues with their own charm. I have also written multiple articles about the St Andrews area, such as recommendations for the best things to see and do in St Andrews or my review of the local whisky distillery.
St Andrews is the kind of town where it almost seems like time has stood still. The quaint little stone houses that line the streets, the cathedral ruins that whisper of grandeur and the dramatic coastline where the horizon seems endless. It’s no wonder so many people love coming here. The famous Old Course of course has its fair share of pull for golfers from all over the world. Even though I rarely play golf, I watch the big tournaments often. It always feels special to see them play here in St Andrews.
When exploring the east coast of Scotland, I really love staying in places that feel like they have a sense of place. The hotels in this guide all do. From the more cosy smaller options to the grand luxury and 5 star golf hotels, St Andrews really is a place where you can find it all.
Seaton House
Seaton House is one of St Andrews’ newest luxury hotels, combining elegant contemporary interiors with one of the town’s most enviable golf locations overlooking West Sands and the Old Course. Spacious rooms, thoughtful design and exceptional dining make it a standout choice for a special stay. I was incredibly impressed with Seaton House when I stayed here. Everything from service to the elegant rooms was just so lovely. The on-site restaurant Ondine is fantastic and a great spot to try seafood. This really is one of my top recommendations for hotels in St Andrews. If you’re looking for an excellent location, fantastic seafood and luxurious comfort, look no further than Seaton House.
- Recommended for: luxury travellers, golfers, food lovers and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: 2 minute walk.
♥ Read my review of the luxurious and elegant experience at Seaton House
Rusacks St Andrews
Rusacks St Andrews brings boutique style to the edge of St Andrews town centre, with individually designed rooms, a lively restaurant and a welcoming atmosphere. It almost feels like stepping into a different world here as the antique boutique interior feel completely engulfs the hotel. It’s a great alternative to the larger luxury hotels. While still being within easy walking distance of the town’s main attractions. Here you will find a quirky boutique feel across the hotel which is cosy and inviting. Some of the best views over the old course can be found at the 18 Restaurant. If you’re lucky you can also get a room with views over the golf course. It is also possible to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea with a view here.
- Recommended for: couples, weekend breaks and visitors looking for a stylish boutique stay.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: 12 minute walk.
Old Course Hotel St Andrews
The Old Course Hotel is St Andrews’ iconic five-star resort, famous for its unrivalled views over the 17th Road Hole and the North Sea. Alongside luxurious rooms, it offers an award-winning spa, multiple restaurants and one of Scotland’s most prestigious golfing locations. The Old Course hotel is located right on the golf course so you can’t get any closer. Don’t miss a visit to the well known Jigger Inn pub where you can enjoy a pint and watch the golfers play their rounds.
- Recommended for: golfers, luxury travellers, spa breaks and milestone celebrations.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: Adjacent to the course (1 minute walk to the first tee area).
Fairmont St Andrews
Set on dramatic cliffs just outside St Andrews, The Fairmont is a large 5 star luxury resort and hotel with two championship golf courses, a spacious spa and sweeping coastal views that are some of the best in Scotland. It offers a peaceful retreat while remaining close enough to explore the town. The hotel is located on its own estate with fantastic views over the North Sea and provides a luxurious escape for guests wishing to be near St Andrews but slightly secluded. The Fairmont also has two championship courses – The Torrance and Kittocks – so if you are visiting for golf you have plenty of options here. There are of course also golf lessons or a practice facility available for those looking to improve their game.
- Recommended for: golf holidays, spa weekends, families and travellers looking for a resort experience.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: Around 10 minutes by car or taxi.
Haar
Located above acclaimed seafood restaurant Haar, these stylish boutique rooms offer an intimate stay right in the heart of St Andrews. Guests are perfectly placed to enjoy the town’s restaurants, beaches and historic streets before returning to beautifully designed accommodation. The restaurant does relaxed fine dining with tasting menus from £125 per person. It would be a shame to stay at Haar and not dine in the restaurant. Especially if you like seafood!
- Recommended for: food lovers, couples and visitors wanting to stay in the heart of town.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: 4 minute walk.
Rufflets
Rufflets is a peaceful country house hotel surrounded by beautiful gardens just outside St Andrews. Offering traditional Scottish hospitality and plenty of space to unwind, it provides a relaxing escape from the bustle of the town centre. This family owned hotel has gorgeous gardens and you can choose between rooms, shepherds huts and cottages for the experience that suits you the best. The restaurant focuses on seasonal produce which is grown in their very own Kitchen Gardens. This is also another great spot for an afternoon tea – and in the warmer months you can enjoy it outdoors.
- Recommended for: couples, garden lovers and travellers seeking a quieter countryside stay.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: Around 8 minutes by car or taxi.
The Peat Inn
The Peat Inn is a charming country inn renowned for its award-winning restaurant and luxurious rooms. Located in the Fife countryside, it offers a peaceful base while remaining within easy reach of St Andrews. An excellent location for exploring more of what Fife has to offer, like Anstruther, the Isle of May, Crail and Kingsbarns Distillery. Stay here for an authentic experience which is a little different from staying in the middle of a city or town. It’s definitely a great destination for foodies as the food in the restaurant is quite remarkable. It doesn’t have one Michelin star for nothing.
- Recommended for: foodies, romantic getaways and visitors exploring Fife by car.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: Around 20 minutes by car.
The Crusoe
Overlooking the harbour in nearby Lower Largo, The Crusoe is a relaxed boutique hotel known for its coastal views, excellent seafood and welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to combine time by the sea with visits to St Andrews. I highly recommend the suite which has its own little balcony overlooking the water. The Crusoe offers a really wholesome stay which feels authentic to the Scottish fishing villages, but with a touch of elegance. There is a pub restaurant in the hotel which serves both seafood dishes like oysters but also pub classics like fish and chips or pie.
- Recommended for: coastal escapes, couples and seafood lovers.
- Distance to the ‘home of golf’ the St Andrews Old Course: Around 20 minutes by car.
FAQ – the best hotels in St Andrews
The Rufflets and Hotel du Vin are dog friendly and certain rooms also allow dogs at the Old Course Hotel and the Fairmont.
Seaton House is my top pick for the best hotel in St Andrews as it has excellent service, one of the best seafood restaurants in Scotland and elegant interior design which enhances your hotel experience.
Seaton House has the excellent seafood restaurant Ondine, Dune also has a lovely seafood focused restaurant as well as the Rusacks which has the 18 Restaurant as well as the Mediterennean style bistro The Bridge.
Looking for more inspiration for your Scotland trip?
- Seaton House St Andrews: Luxury stay and fantastic seafood on Scotland’s Golf Coast
- Eden Mill Distillery in St Andrews: Where Whisky and Gin Meet the Sea
- Things to Do in St Andrews: My Favourite Places, Restaurants & Experiences at the Home of Golf in Scotland
- Romantic getaways in Scotland: The Most Luxurious Escapes for Couples in 2026
- The best hotels in Edinburgh: 19 luxurious recommendations from a local
- The Best Whisky Distilleries in Scotland: From Historic Icons to Hidden Gems
Meet Moa, our multi-talented writer from Sweden who now calls Edinburgh, Scotland home. With over a decade exploring Europe’s hidden corners—from Nordic landscapes to alpine villages—Moa brings a unique perspective shaped by her years as a travel guide in the Swiss and Austrian Alps. As a whisky book author and freelance drinks writer, she has an eye for exceptional food and beverage experiences, while her background as a photographer ensures she never misses a scenic moment. Whether she’s discovering old European cities or chasing golden hour in mountain villages, Moa’s stories blend cultural insight with a dash of adventure and plenty of authenticity.
