St Andrews, the Scottish seaside town where Prince William and Princess Catherine met while studying at university, is a hidden coastal gem packed with independent shops and centuries of history. Located north-east of Edinburgh on Scotland's east coast, the town is widely known as the meeting place of the royal couple, who both attended the University of St Andrews.
A Royal Connection
Prince William and Princess Catherine met in 2001 while studying at St Andrews, and both graduated from the university in 2005. Prince William earned an honours degree in geography, while Princess Catherine earned an honours degree in history of art.
The town holds a special place in their hearts, and it remains a fascinating yet relaxing destination for visitors, especially during the autumn months when its quaint streets are at their most beautiful.
Independent Shops and Local Delights
Along the high street, shoppers will find a vibrant range of independent shops. Highlights include Topping & Company's expansive bookshop, which offers complimentary tea while browsing, and Johnstons of Elgin's world-class cashmere.
For those who prefer to browse, St Andrews Street Market is the place to head. One visitor on TripAdvisor said: “Nice local food options from scones to meat pies to local cheeses and chocolates. It was a pleasant way to spend a Saturday morning in St Andrews. Set on Market Street, which was closed off to cars for the street fair.”
Historic Attractions
Another must-see spot is St Andrews Cathedral, which was once the largest church in Scotland. According to Visit Scotland, the cathedral's museum houses an outstanding collection of medieval sculptures and relics found on the site.
Visitors can also climb St Rule's Tower, which dates from the 12th century, to see amazing views across St Andrews and Fife. Even without spending, the tree-lined streets are filled with centuries of history and are perfect for a scenic stroll.
