Explore these striking ruins set against the rocky coastline of St Andrews! Once the seat of Scotland’s leading Bishops, St Andrews Castle dates all the way back to the middle ages and has been home to some of the most influential figures in the Scottish church. Caught in the turbulent reformation, this castle was the site of the dramatic siege of 1546-7 after Cardinal Beaton was assassinated by Protestant nobles in retaliation for his brutal execution of the Protestant preacher George Wishart. If you want to know more about the castle’s sordid history in the violent power struggle between Catholics and protestants, then pick up one of their audio guides.
Where can I learn more about St Andrews' history?
Whilst it was initially completed in 1202, the castle suffered significant damage during the wars of independence with England and had to be substantially rebuilt in 1385. Left to ruin after the reformation, much of the castle has long since collapsed into the sea, but what remains is still worth a visit for those interested in St Andrews’ history.
- Open daily 1 April to 30 September: 9.30 am to 5 pm, 1 October to 31 March: 10 am to 4 pm
- Toilets (including disabled toilets) onsite
- No dogs (apart from guide dogs)
The castle itself is temporarily closed due to masonry inspections but the visitor centre is still open.
