St Andrews, Fife, Scotland

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO THE OPEN AT ST ANDREWS 2027

Plan your visit to the Kingdom of Fife with helpful travel information, local tips and inspiration. From historic towns and coastal villages to world-famous golf courses, beaches, and scenic walks, Fife offers something for every traveller. Whether visiting for a relaxing escape or a Scottish golf break, discover everything you need to make the most of your stay.

What is the best way to travel on the day?

For The Open, the easiest option will be a combination of train + shuttle bus, or organised transport.

— Dedicated park & ride systems will operate on the outskirts of St Andrews
— Shuttle buses will run frequently into the championship site
— Walking from central St Andrews is also possible depending on your accommodation

Driving directly into town is not recommended during tournament week due to congestion and restricted access.

How do I get to St Andrews for The Open?

St Andrews does not have its own train station, so most visitors travel via Leuchars Railway Station, around 10–15 minutes from town.

— Direct trains run from Edinburgh Waverley to Leuchars (approximately1hour), stopping at all the main Fife stops including Inverkeithing, Dalgety Bay, Aberdour, Kinghorn, Burntisland, Kirkcaldy, Markinch, Ladybank and Cupar
— From Leuchars, shuttle buses and taxis operate into St Andrews
— During The Open, services are expected to be significantly increased to handle spectator demand

A key international gateway is Edinburgh Airport, around 90 minutes from St Andrews by road or rail connection.

Can I drive and park at The Open?

No on-site spectator parking is available in St Andrews during The Open.

— All visitor parking is expected to be managed via park & ride sites outside the town
— From there, official shuttle buses will take spectators to the course area
— Traffic around St Andrews will be heavily managed, with event signage and diversions

How do I get around St Andrews during the event?

St Andrews is a compact town. Expect pedestrian-only zones and restricted vehicle access around key areas.

— Walking (the main option during The Open)
— Local buses from surrounding areas
— Shuttle services from park & ride sites

Where is best to stay for The Open 2027?

Accommodation will book up very early.
Popular options include:

— St Andrews town centre (walking distance to course)
— East Neuk villages for coastal charm and short transfers
— Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy and Leven for more chance of availability and good transport links.
— Dundee, Perth or Angus for wider availability, more budget friendly and rail access

How early should I plan my trip?

For a major championship like The Open:

— Book accommodation 12–18 months in advance if possible. Check out our list of places to stay.
— Plan transport early once official routes are announced
— Expect peak demand for trains into Leuchars and shuttle services

Top tip for visitors

Build in extra travel time each day

Even short journeys can take longer during The Open due to security zones,
pedestrian flow and traffic management.

Handy links