Three amazing activities to do during Christmas in St. Andrews

Christmas in St. Andrews.

It is something truly extraordinary. A stunning town steeped in history. Perfect for a little winter getaway and full of incredible places to visit. It is no wonder that locals and visitors flock to this magical location during the festive season.

Many businesses and groups around St. Andrews love getting into the spirit of things this time of year. With Christmas markets, annual light switches on's, pipe bands and choirs filling the streets.

If there was ever a time to visit St. Andrews, December is the one. Bask in the historic landmarks, eat some of the best food Scotland has to offer and stay in the lap of luxury with us at Haar. Could Christmas time get any more perfect?


Let's look at some fantastic things to do when you are here.


Visit our incredible landmarks

There is lots to do here in St. Andrews all year round, but there is just a certain je ne sais quo about them during the winter. Wrap up warm and get ready for some undeniably brilliant experiences.

To kick your day of adventure off, we would recommend a crisp morning walk along the famous West Sands Beach to stretch those legs. This incredible spot is but fifteen minutes from the town centre and has long strips of golden sand that would put many other beaches to shame. You can also take in some striking panoramic views of the St. Andrews skyline while on your stroll.

Following this, we recommend visiting the historic St. Andrews Cathedral (which you would have seen in the skyline from your walk). Explore the ruins of Scotland's oldest and most iconic medieval church. Even in its current damaged state, this is a must-visit landmark in St. Andrews.

Looking for more to do? Head to Visit Scotland and find more fun activities in this beautiful town.


Stay in one of our luxury rooms

If you are heading to St. Andrews for a festive getaway during December, you should always opt to stay in the lap of luxury that is Haar Restaurant with Rooms. Our newly built bedrooms have been designed with a contemporary, stylish mix of luxury and character. Please relax and enjoy our rooms' panoramic views of the Old Course, West Sands or the North Sea.

bedroom in Haar Restaurant with Rooms



Try our Festive Tasting Menu

It wouldn't be Christmas without a little Dean Banks flair, would it? The man himself and the Haar team have curated a special tasting menu for you and yours to enjoy this year. We'll serve a range of seasonal delights, with all the elements sourced from the place we call home, Scotland. Using seasonal ingredients in all our cooking is very important. It ensures you can enjoy everything at its peak and when it is of the finest quality. Let's have a look at what's going to be on offer.

First, you will be greeted by our team and relax in our reception area with a drink before heading up to our Chef's Bar to enjoy some seasonal snacks prepared right in front of you. All the while being told tales of all things Haar.

venison dish from the tasting menu during Christmas in St. Andrews

Next, we'll take you to our dining area, where you can enjoy the subsequent courses. These will include cured Loch Etive trout with daikon and hollandaise inspired by the world-renowned Café de Paris. You will also be able to enjoy some roast hake with Arbroath smokie, parsnip and Cullen skink, then some roe deer with beetroot, tamarind, and buttermilk venison and this is served alongside a haggis pie.

No visit to Haar would be complete without the famous Nana's Banoffee, and we will be serving this for the sweet course.

fine-dining rendition of a banoffee pie

Our festive tasting menu is bursting with seasonal flavours, and we cannot wait for you to try them.




Head to our website and book your stay or table right now. Some festive magic awaits you and your nearest and dearest.

Ross Mcgregor