Historical Adventure to St Andrews & Dundee
1 day tour
Explore the energetic city of Dundee and the historic town of St Andrews on this day tour from Aberdeen.
Tour map
Tour Highlights
St Andrews Cathedral - This ruined cathedral was once one of Scotland’s most magnificent buildings.
St Andrews Old Town - Immerse yourself in 1,000 years of history as you explore the winding streets and ancient castle.
The Old Course - Golf was so popular in Scotland, it was banned in the 15th century. And nowhere was it more popular than in St Andrews, ‘the Home of Golf’.
Dundee - Visit 'Scotland's sunniest city' and explore the historical waterfront and nautical museums.
Your journey
What better way to spend your day than along a stunning coastline? And what better way to fill your day than by exploring two historic places? Dundee might be known as the 'sunniest city' in Scotland, but it's the history and museums that you're likely to remember.
And then there's St Andrews. You've likely heard of it. St Andrews Cathedral was once one of Scotland's most magnificent buildings and a pilgrimage centre. And though it stands in ruins today, there is still something mesmerising about it. That's the whole town of St Andrews. Elegant architecture backed by sweeping coastal views. Castle ruins nestled alongside an ancient golf course.
Tour Details
Check-in closes at 08:45 (tour departs at 09:00) - Aberdeen Bus Station Pick Up, Stance 5, Aberdeen Bus Station, Guild Street, Aberdeen, AB11 6NA
18:30 - Aberdeen Bus Station Drop Off, Stance 5, Aberdeen Bus Station, Guild Street, Aberdeen, AB11 6NA
You're restricted to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) and a small bag for onboard personal items.
Students, seniors over 60, and children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)
- Pack your waterproof clothing and walking shoes
- Attraction tickets may need to be purchased in advance. More information is provided in your booking confirmation e-mail
- Transportation by a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Air conditioning as standard
- The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Entry fees to visitor attractions
Itinerary
Here's hoping you get a sunny day because today you're going to get to know the coastline pretty well. Sun shimmering off Scottish water. Believe it or not, we do get sun here. But even if it's a cloudy day, the Scottish coastline is as stunning as it is dramatic. You leave Aberdeen, 'The Granite City', and head south along coastline and through countryside towards Dundee.
Your driver-guide will drop you near the waterfront, which is perfect for you not just because of the views, you'll also be close to the V&A Dundee. This international centre for design showcases the best of Scottish creativity, and design from around the world.
Or, if you prefer, you also have the Royal Research Ship Discovery to explore. Built in Dundee, it was the first purpose built Antarctic Survey vessel and at the beginning of 20th century, it took the first British expedition of the modern era to Antarctica, including Irish explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. Enjoy the Discovery's extensive galleries, videos and films, interactive displays and artefacts.
Or perhaps exploring the city and waterfront is at the top of your list. The time is yours to do as you please.
After your visit to Dundee, we journey over the Tay Road Bridge with views over the Firth of Tay. We then enter one of the remaining ancient kingdoms of Scotland... the Kingdom of Fife. The home of golf, a hub for outdoor-enthusiasts, and landscapes spotted with history, Fife is a world of its own.
We continue south to the medieval town of St Andrews. St Andrew is the patron Saint of Scotland and according to legend his remains were washed up on the Fife coast. St Andrews is also home to the third oldest university in Britain and is proud of its dramatic cliff-perched castle ruins.
Not to mention, St Andrews is the home of golf. Golf-fanatics will love getting to know the Grand Old Lady, also known as the Old Course at St Andrews, considered the oldest golf course. You have around two and a half hours to explore this fascinating town.
After St Andrews, we take a pleasant drive through the rolling countryside back to Aberdeen.
FAQs
Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?
The UK and Ireland's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure, we only pick up from our central meeting points. What's more is leaving the city using the most direct route also reduces the carbon footprint of our tours.
Is there parking close to the departure point?
We don't recommend bringing your car into the centre of our departure cities. It can be hard to find parking, and there are excellent public transportation services.
When should I get to the departure point?
Arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. Due to waiting restrictions, we can't wait for you if you're late.
What happens if I'm late or miss the tour?
If you're late for your tour, our cancellation policy applies. 100% charges are applicable, and you will not be entitled to a refund or alternative.
What are your cancellation policies?
Your cancellation terms depend on which tour you've booked.
For one-day tours: You'll receive a full refund if you cancel 24 hours or more before the tour departure
For tours of between two and nine days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 15 or more days before the tour departure
For tours of 10 or more days: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 21 or more days before the tour departure
For all European packaged tours: You'll receive a 90% refund if you cancel 42 days before the tour departure.
If you cancel inside these notice periods, full charges will apply and no refunds will be issued.
To cancel your booking, email tours@rabbies.com as soon as possible. The effective date of cancellation will be the date we receive written confirmation from you.
Click here to view terms and conditions
Can Itineraries change?
Your tour will always follow the itinerary as closely as possible. Your driver-guide will keep you up to date on the road, and we'll try to get in touch about any large changes prior to your departure.
Can I pre-book a specific seat?
Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable 16-seat mini-coaches have huge windows. So, you'll always get a good view.
Are there toilets on the bus?
Unfortunately, we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you'll have regular comfort breaks.
How do you cater for people with accessibility needs?
We aim to accommodate everyone. To read more information on how we do this, click here to go to our accessibility guide.
Do you take children on your tours?
We regret we don't carry children under the age of five on our scheduled tours.
You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.
How much time do I get off the bus?
We want you to enjoy Britain and Ireland. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of time to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.
Why do you exclude visitor attractions?
We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.
Do we need to bring our own lunch?
You don't need to. We stop in small towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.
Should I tip the driver-guide?
Let's be honest, our driver-guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.
What about travel insurance?
We advise you take out travel insurance.
What is ABTOT?
You're protected by ABTOT when you chose to let us reserve your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we become bankrupt. Read our terms and conditions for more information.
I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs .