Access

Special arrangements are currently in place at St Andrews Castle, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. These arrangements are detailed below, and will be regularly updated. Last updated 28 July 2020.

Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.

Safety measures

Our staff have been trained in hygiene and physical distancing and have been provided with the necessary PPE
Signage is on site to guide visitors, including one way systems and marked areas that are currently closed to visitors
We have introduced enhanced cleaning measures, including our toilet facilities, to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are now mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)

Watch our video on what to expect when you visit our sites

Carers tickets

In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry and as advised by Capability Scotland, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate admission category rate - Adult/Concession/Child. Proof of disability is not required.

We offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. To book a free carer ticket, please email ticketing@hes.scot and quote your order number.

Parking

There is one accessible parking bay outside the castle. Other than that, there is no specific visitor parking. There is on street parking, but the nearest car park is at the Bruce Embankment about ¾ mile away. Visitors can be dropped at the castle.

Approach to site

The castle is 50m from the visitor centre, over grass reinforced with narrow strips of concrete.

Dogs

Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs.

Visitors' dogs are not permitted at St Andrews Castle.

What will be open during your visit

The Castle
Shop
Visitor Centre
Toilets

What will remain closed/unavailable during your visit

The bottle neck dungeon (QR code available)
Kitchen and mine (QR code available)
Countermine (QR code available)
Audio guides

Visiting the site

Visitors will be able to move through the buildings without following a specific route, though social distancing measures will be in place. Access to some spaces may be limited.

Access to the visitor centre is down five steps with handrails to either side or a ramp without handrails. Inside, the centre is on the level
- A multi-sensory exhibition in the visitor centre includes audio-visual presentations and dioramas
The castle is about 50m from the visitor centre, over grass reinforced with narrow strips of concrete
The castle courtyard is entered over a wooden bridge. The courtyard is grass covered and much of the castle can be seen from it
The south range first and second floors are up stone spiral steps with single handrails
The sea and kitchen towers are up stone steps with single hand rails
The bottle dungeon, mine and countermine will not be available to view at this time. A film of the space will be viewable on your own device, via a QR code link