Our Top Four Autumnal Activities in St. Andrews
Autumn in St. Andrews is a fantastic time to visit. With cooler weather, stunning colours, and plenty to do, it’s the perfect season for both locals and visitors. And, of course, a trip to Haar Restaurant is a must when you’re in town, where Chef Dean Banks brings Scotland’s finest ingredients to your plate. Here’s a look at some of the best activities to enjoy, with Haar as your dining destination.
1. Take a Scenic Autumn Walk
St. Andrews is known for its beautiful walks, and autumn really brings out the best of its scenery. From the iconic ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral to the peaceful Botanic Gardens, a walk around during autumn gives you a chance to take in the iconic history of our town. The coast along East Sands is especially beautiful this time of year, with the cool sea breeze and breathtaking views awaiting you.
After a long walk, Haar is the perfect place to warm up. Our menu shifts with the seasons, so you can expect delectable, locally sourced dishes that really capture the flavours of autumn - think Highland venison, local shellfish, and many other seasonal delights.
2. Visit the St. Andrews South Street Market
If you love local produce, don’t miss the St. Andrews Farmers’ Market, held once a month. In autumn, the market is full of seasonal goods - root vegetables, freshly baked bread, and locally sourced meats. You can chat with the vendors, pick up fresh ingredients for your own cooking, or simply enjoy browsing the stalls.
Upcoming dates are: 2nd November and the 7th December.
3. Stay at Haar: An Autumn Retreat
Why not make a weekend of it and stay at Haar? The restaurant offers stylish rooms upstairs, so you can fully relax after your meal and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of our town. The next day, waking up in a cosy room, heading downstairs for breakfast, and then spending the morning and afternoon exploring the town is the perfect autumn getaway. You can take in the best of St. Andrews at your own pace.
Haar's rooms are designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Each is elegantly furnished, offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and unbelievably comfy bed. Our guests regularly comment about the attention to detail, from the tasteful decor to the thoughtful touches throughout. Whichever of our rooms you’re in, a stay at Haar guarantees the most unforgettable Scottish staycation experience.
4. Tee Off: Autumn Golf in St. Andrews
St. Andrews is known as the home of golf, and autumn is one of the best times to experience it. The cooler weather, golden landscapes, and quieter courses create a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for golfers looking to take their time and enjoy the game. The iconic Old Course is especially striking in autumn, with its historic fairways framed by autumnal foliage, making it a bucket-list experience for any golf enthusiast.
If you’ve already played the Old Course or are looking for something different, the town boasts several other outstanding options. The New Course, designed in 1895, offers a more traditional links experience, with rolling fairways and deep bunkers. The Jubilee Course, known for being one of the most challenging in the area, provides stunning coastal views that are even more breathtaking against the backdrop of the autumn season.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, the autumn season in St. Andrews gives you the opportunity to appreciate the game in its purest form - without the summer crowds and with Scotland’s beautiful scenery at its peak.
Autumn is a great time to visit St. Andrews, whether you’re walking around town, exploring the farmers’ market, or playing a round of golf. And no trip is complete without a visit to Haar Restaurant, where the menu is always inspired by the season. Whether you’re just dropping in for a meal or staying for the weekend, Haar gives you a true taste of autumn in Scotland.