Best Museums in St Andrews
What are the best museums in St Andrews and the surrounding area? We have listed the best museums on offer – click on the links to find out opening times, locations and ticket prices while you stay at one of our holiday accommodations.
British Golf Museum, St Andrews
As the Home of Golf, no visit to St Andrews should be without a visit to the British Golf Museum. If you are a lover of golf, you will love this place. Situated across the road from the Royal and Ancient and the first hole of the Old Course and right on the West Sands. The museum hosts the largest collection of golfing memorabilia in Europe, exclusive shopping and relaxed dining, all under one roof.
St Andrews Preservation Trust Museum
This lovely, wee, private museum is situated in a 17th century house in the St Andrews old ‘fisher quarter, very close to St Andrews castle and cathedral. It features information and artefacts related to the history of the town and its people, including collections of art, clothing, furniture, and photography. There are also beautiful gardens to relax and unwind in, which have won awards.
University of St Andrews Observatory
If you are interested in Astronomy this is the destination for you. This is a working observatory and is used by the University of St Andrews School of Physics and Astronomy. The museum is open to showcase the James Gregory Telescope, the biggest telescope in the country, only once a month on the first Wednesday of each month between 7 and 9pm. There will be an astronomer on hand to give you a tour and answer your questions.
St Andrews Museum
Hosting a great collection of displays, objects and images telling the town’s story from the 12th century to date, it is fascinating – and it’s also free! There are regular series of talks, concerts and children’s activities with a lovely cafe. Situated in a very central location.
Museum of University of St Andrews/ Wardlaw Museum
The Wardlaw Museum shows visitors inside St Andrews University, has 4 galleries all based on separate themes. All demonstrating the university’s ground-breaking research and how this plays out globally. Featuring art, history, science and natural history collections. And with a regular programme of temporary exhibitions and interactive experiences for all the beautiful, a terrace and garden with a sea view – this museum is a must see.
Scottish Fisheries Museum, Anstruther
An award winning family friendly museum which tells the story of Scottish fishing from the earliest times to the present, and predict what’s in the future for fishing technology! Set in the historic Anstruther harbour, there are guided and themed tours available. There is so much to see including fishing gear from days of old, boats and really amazing displays set out to detail the social and regional history of the fishing communities. This museum is buggy friendly too.
Scotland’s Secret Bunker, Crail
An innocuous farmhouse deceives the eye, this is Scotland’s Secret Underground Nuclear Command Centre, hidden for almost 50 years. This is where the central government and military would have run the country from should there have been a nuclear war. Situated over 2 levels, 100ft underground with 15ft reinforced concrete, it has command rooms, RAF control centre, dormitories, 2 cinemas and a café. BUolt in 1951 and in use til 1993, this is one unique treasure and not to be missed.