Address: The Scores, St Andrews, KY16 9AR, United Kingdom
Phone: +441334477196
Rating: 4.5
based on 183 reviews.
Historical Significance & Educational Value
Pros:
"When we went there was also a woman sitting in and discussing the role of a scribe in the Middle Ages. Very educational and added to the experience!"
"The castle is a ruin but there's still a lot to see and some fascinating history in the museum."
"Fascinating old castle with a great story behind it. Very walkable and accessible to both young and old."
"There is an exhibition to go through which explains the history."
"That Castle is part of Historic Scotland. A place full of vibrant history, power, church, Kings, and drama happened there."
"Very rich history. Spectacular views of the ruins despite the result of religious conflict."
"An amazing place steeped in history."
Cons:
"It's a pity that currently the castle is closed so you can't enjoy its premises."
"I found the castle to be quite underwhelming as there are loads of other places in Scotland that are more worthy of visiting than St Andrews Castle."
"Thought it was a bit expensive for what it is."
"Worth a visit but won't live long in the memory!"
"When you compare it to the four other castles I saw on my vacation in Scotland, This is my least favorite. There is hardly anything left. It’s mostly ruined."
"The price may be subject of intense scrutiny."
"There weren't any tour guides or any opportunities to ask questions."
Staff & Service
Pros:
"What a fantastic place, with some of the best Team members anywhere. Not only were they informative, but they were just really nice professional people to deal with."
"The staff is very friendly and professional and the tour is enhanced by a nice museum inside the building."
"Very helpful staff, splendid view, interesting castle and an amazing underground mining warfare tunnel."
"The staff at St Andrews Castle were friendly and knowledgeable."
"Staff were very knowledgeable and fully engaged my 4 year old son suggesting great ways he could get involved."
"Staff are amazing and I would highly recommend a visit to this place when you're in St. Andrews."
"The stuff were really informative, friendly and helpful even when English is not your first language."
Cons:
"Arrived few minutes after 5 and they rudely said no entry even though on google preview says closing at 5:30."
"Another scottish rip off.20 quid. Short visit as guy tending gate shouting at us wr need to go as he has lots of other jobs to do."
"Came to St Andrews and wanted visit the castle but was told there was limited numbers due to covid, so as we hadn't booked we couldn't go in."
"Unfortunately the castle itself is unsafe and closed."
"You can not enter the castle as it's off limits."
"It's closed at the moment as work is getting done."
"Most of the graves are fenced off with very ugly, construction style fences."
Accessibility & Facilities
Pros:
"The entry is cheap and you can have a view of the beach from inside."
"The site is wheelchair/pushchair friendly with ramped access."
"The main castle area could be accessed by wheelchair with assistance."
"Big visitor centre with shop, exhibition and toilets."
"The visitor center and exhibits were well-maintained and enhanced the overall experience."
"Historic Castle has a gift shop and exhibition inside a separate building which you go through before going outside to the castle itself."
"The exhibition on its history was interactive and well-decorated."
Cons:
"Can't go into the castle ruins at present as it's closed for fear of falling masonry."
"The toilet facilities spoiled the experience, yet if you're not fussy that'll do..."
"Some of the castle was closed so you couldn't walk through."
"Unfortunately castle and cathedral locked off due to health and safety but still worth a visit."
"No car park but on street parking available if you are lucky."
"Nearest free car park is about 15 min walk away at the new University campus opposite the golf course."
"The only issue is to find a car park space. Couple of rounds in the area."
Value & Experience
Pros:
"Worth single penny spent."
"Spectacular ruins of St Andrews castle. There are many little places to explore, which is great."
"Myself and husband had a week off and went to a few places on our staycation we had the best time in St Andrew's and enjoyed our time at the castle well worth it and very reasonably priced."
"Fascinating, well preserved castle, great for a day out."
"Fab place to visit, in my opinion its very much worth the £9.50."
"Well worth a visit. The siege mine and counter mine were fascinating and you can actually go in it."
"Great experience and worth the entrance fee. Recommend an audio guide."
Cons:
"It's a good attraction for tourist but there isn't anymore to see apart from some walls, the tunnel and a sort of museum."
"Thought it was a bit expensive for what it is."
"Great little castle by the sea with some interesting fortifications and stories. You'll be there under an hour and feels a little pricey."
"Epic castle, totally worth paying the entry fee."
"A guided tour here is quite expensive but well worth while if you are at all interested in the history of Christianity in Scotland."
"Entrance is a bit on the pricey side but it's well worth it, especially if you love history."
"This castle is not a visit. The price is outrageous for what you actually get."