A Student's Complete Guide to Getting Around St Andrews

Congratulations on your place at the University of St Andrews — one of the world's most prestigious institutions, set in one of Scotland's most beautiful coastal towns. Whether you are arriving for Freshers' Week or returning for your final year, understanding how to get around is essential. This guide covers every transport option available to students.

Arriving in St Andrews for the First Time

St Andrews does not have its own railway station. The nearest station is Leuchars, approximately five miles to the north-west. From Leuchars you have two options to reach St Andrews:

• Stagecoach bus 99 — runs every 10–15 minutes during the day, takes about 15 minutes, costs around £3 single
• Taxi — a direct, comfortable ride taking 10 minutes, ideal if you have heavy luggage, boxes, and all the essentials for setting up your new accommodation

During Freshers' Week the bus service gets extremely busy, with long queues and standing room only. If you are arriving with parents and a car-load of belongings, a taxi is by far the most practical option.

Getting Around Town Day-to-Day

The beauty of St Andrews is that the town centre is remarkably walkable. From most student residences you can reach the main university buildings, the library, and the town centre within 10 to 15 minutes on foot. However, there are situations where you will want alternative transport:

Walking

St Andrews is compact — roughly 1.5 miles from the cathedral ruins at the eastern tip to the Old Course Hotel at the western end. Most lectures, the Students' Union, and the main shopping streets sit within a half-mile radius of St Salvator's Quad. Comfortable shoes and a good waterproof jacket are your two best investments.

Cycling

Cycling is popular among students, especially those living in halls further from the centre like David Russell Apartments (about a mile south of town). The university provides cycle parking at most buildings. Be aware that Market Street and South Street can be busy with pedestrians, so take care. A decent lock is essential — bike theft does occur.

Taxis

There are times when only a taxi will do:

• Late-night returns from parties, balls, or events — safety first
• Trips to Leuchars station with luggage at the start and end of term
• Group outings to Dundee, Edinburgh, or the East Neuk villages
• Airport transfers when flying home for holidays
• Medical appointments when you are unwell
• Moving between accommodations during room changes

At Jet Taxi we offer student-friendly service and understand the rhythms of university life. We are available 24/7, including during exam periods when late-night library sessions turn into early-morning returns.

Getting to Edinburgh and Dundee

Edinburgh is the closest major city, about 50 miles south. Dundee is closer at just 14 miles to the north. Here are your options for each:

Edinburgh

• Train from Leuchars — approximately 1 hour, frequent services on the Edinburgh–Aberdeen line
• Stagecoach X60 bus — direct service taking about 1 hour 50 minutes
• Taxi — door-to-door in roughly 75 minutes, excellent for groups of 3–4 splitting the fare

Dundee

• Stagecoach 99 bus — around 30 minutes via Leuchars and the Tay Bridge
• Taxi — just 20 minutes door-to-door, very affordable when shared

Many students take regular trips to Dundee for shopping at the Overgate Centre, evenings out, or visits to the DCA cinema and V&A museum.

Graduation Day Transport

Graduation is one of the most important days of your time at St Andrews, and transport logistics matter. With limited parking in town and families arriving from all over the country, we strongly recommend pre-booking a taxi to ensure your day runs smoothly. Our drivers know the best drop-off points near the graduation venues and can accommodate formal attire and photography stops.

Tips for Student Travel

• Save your taxi company's number in your phone — you'll need it eventually
• Pre-book airport transfers during peak times (start/end of term, Raisin Weekend)
• Share rides with flatmates to split costs — we can accommodate groups
• Plan ahead for May Dip — yes, you'll need a ride home at 6am soaking wet
• Keep cash as a backup — although we accept all major cards and contactless payments

Welcome to St Andrews — we hope you have an incredible time, and we are here whenever you need a reliable ride.