The Best Boutique Hotels in St Andrews, Scotland

The best boutique hotels in St Andrews range from Scottish charm to five-star luxury
The best boutique hotels in St Andrews range from Scottish charm to five-star luxury | © fraser band / Alamy Stock Photo
Tori Chalmers

Considering its first-class golf courses, breathtaking architecture and university-town heritage, St Andrews will always reign as a perennially popular place to explore in Scotland. Add its boutique hotels into the already appealing mix, and you’re looking at a dreamy combination. Here, we separate the best from the rest.

1. Hotel du Vin St Andrews

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

Leather seating and tables set for dining in the restaurant at Hotel du Vin St Andrews
Courtesy of Hotel du Vin St Andrews / Expedia

Hotel du Vin is the cherry on top of a trip to St Andrews. This expertly furnished hotel comes with delightful Scottish sea views and state-of-the-art touches like designer toiletries, bespoke hand-made sleigh beds, Nespresso machines and super-luxe fluffy bathrobes. The playful wallpaper of life’s little pleasures like books and old-school suitcases shows that no expenses have been spared – and the same goes for the food and wine. Whether you’re there for a golfing extravaganza, pampered weekend getaway or uni visit, let Hotel du Vin supply that extra dose of sparkle.

2. Kinnettles Hotel

Boutique Hotel

Tables set for dining in the stylish restaurant at Kinnettles Hotel, with a large potted plant and candles on a table at the wall
Courtesy of Kinnettles Hotel / Expedia

Although new to the St Andrews hotel scene in 2017, Kinnettles Hotel arrives with a stellar reputation as the sibling of the esteemed Kinnettles Castle Luxury Hotel. This five-star boutique hotel boasts nine bespoke suites, each adorned from floor to ceiling with plush interiors, gorgeous muted metallics and oodles of finesse. The signature contemporary Scottish style found embellishing every space demonstrates a keen eye for effortless luxury, while the deluxe Eden spa, complete with ESPA products and lush amenities, is adored by those with a liking for all things lavish. An unrivalled dining experience accompanies the boutique splendour.

3. Rufflets

Boutique Hotel

Red and green ivy covering the exterior of Rufflets Hotel in St Andrews, with a stone path through the gardens to the entrance
Courtesy of Rufflets / Expedia

A 1924 mansion in 10 acres (4ha) of grounds, this delightful turreted hotel has all the mod cons you could ever dream of. The rooms are all class and tasteful design – think accent walls, large lay-on-me beds, plush bedding and bathrooms that lend themselves to long, decadent bubble baths. The teddy bears on each bed are an adorable touch. Between the endless al fresco dining opportunities, lush grounds, swanky brasserie and timeless elegance, Rufflets hits the spot.

5. Fairmont St Andrews

Boutique Hotel, Golf Hotel

Looking down the staircase at the seating around the stylish lobby at Fairmont St Andrews, with green walls and lights hung from the ceiling in a display of artwork
Courtesy of Fairmont St Andrews / Expedia

Although Fairmont St Andrews may not scream traditional boutique hotel (it’s enormous), it’s safe to say it makes up for it in style. From the thousands of dancing lights suspended from the foyer ceiling and never-ending array of chic extras, to the sinfully indulgent spa and afternoon tea lounge, this swanky hotel is suited to those who love the finer things in life. And with a cliff-top eatery to boot.

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