Romance, Ruins and the Royal Game

A Love Affair with St Andrews

"St Andrews is a very special place for Catherine and me. It was here that we met and shared so many happy memories." - Prince William

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St Andrews Cathedral in St. Andrews, Scotland - Shutterstock

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In today’s email

• Romance, Ruins and the Royal Game

• Let's Take A Deep Dive Into The Lochs Of Scotland

• Everything you need to know about visiting the the Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands

• Around the Web: St Andrews Castle and Great Houses; Whale watch and Corryvreckan Cruise; For the Love of Scotch Whisky and more…

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Tourism in Scotland is Highly Seasonal - When Is The Best Time To Go?

• Scottish Food You Will Love: Celebrating St Andrew's Day… and a traditional recipe

• Coo Wee: 10 Things to See in St. Andrews - The Home of Golf

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Romance, Ruins and the Royal Game

St Andrews has witnessed its fair share of romance, both noble and forbidden. One of the most documented love stories is that of Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Darnley. While not exclusive to St Andrews, Mary spent time in the town and was known for her many romantic entanglements. Her second husband, Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, was initially a love match, but their union turned sour, leading to one of Scotland’s most infamous royal scandals. It is said that in her younger days, Mary was fond of the St Andrews area, using it as a retreat for both leisure and political manoeuvring.

A lesser-known but equally captivating tale is that of James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell, another of Mary’s husbands, who had ties to the town. The story of his bold courtship of the Queen, culminating in what some call a forced marriage, is a dramatic chapter in Scottish history. Outside the realm of royalty, St Andrews University, founded in 1413, has been the backdrop for many love stories, including the modern fairytale romance of Prince William and Kate Middleton, who met as students there. Whether in medieval castles or university lecture halls, St Andrews has long been a place where love and history intertwine. So, is St Andrews worth visiting?

St Andrews in Scotland - Shutterstock

Let's Take A Deep Dive Into The Lochs Of Scotland

Scotland is a land steeped in natural beauty, dotted with countless lochs that reflect its rugged landscapes and rich history. From the mysterious depths of Loch Ness to the serene shores of Loch Lomond, each loch holds its own unique allure.

Statue of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, at the Loch Ness Exhibition centre - Shutterstock

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Around The Web

St Andrews Castle and Great Houses

The St Andrews and East Fife area was once where Kings and Queens came to stay, as well as the wealthy in the later years. St Andrew has its own castle but there are many Castles and Great Houses, some lavishly furnished with period pieces, many with lovely gardens, which are often worth a visit in their own right…

Whale watch and Corryvreckan Cruise

The Whale Watching Trips are run in the summer which is the best time to head offshore in search of minke whales. Whales, dolphins, porpoise, otters and seals feed in different areas so cruises are planned according to the tides…

The History of St Andrews Cathedral

St Rule’s Church was likely built around 1130, as the first place of worship in Scotland for the newly arrived Augustinian canons. This Continental reformed order supplanted the existing clergy.

The 155th Open to be played at St Andrews in 2027 - Plan to be there!

It will mark 100 years since legendary amateur Bobby Jones triumphed in The Open at St Andrews in 1927 when his six-shot margin of victory saw him successfully defend the title he won the previous year at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Getting to St Andrews

St Andrews town is located on the east coast of Scotland within the Kingdom of Fife, and can be easily reached from a number of nearby cities using public transport, road and private transfers. There are a choice of airports to fly into from international locations, and all have good links with the town.

For the Love of Scotch Whisky

Whisky, or uisge beatha (the "water of life"), is at the heart of Scotland’s heritage, with over 140 distilleries spread across five whisky regions - Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, Islay, and Campbeltown. Each region produces whisky with distinct characteristics, from peaty and smoky to smooth and floral. Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is also home to excellent whisky experiences, where visitors can learn about the craft and sample some of the finest drams.

The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Tourism in Scotland is Highly Seasonal - When Is The Best Time To Go?

Scottish Food You Will Love

Celebrating St Andrew's Day… and a traditional recipe

Coo Wee

10 Things to See in St. Andrews - The Home of Golf

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