Walk 1558 - printer friendly version

Out Head & West Sands, St Andrews Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 3.0 miles / 4.9 km

Ascent - 50 feet / 15 metres

Grade - easy

Start - OS grid reference NO502175
Lat 56.347213 + Long -2.8073094
Postcode KY16 9XL (approx. location only)

West Beach at St Andrews on the Fife Coast is one of the great beaches in Scotland with a wide expanse of fine sand stretching as far as the eye can see. A walk along the beach can also be combined with a visit to this and historic University town. During Golf Tournaments it is wise to avoid this area as traffic and parking can be extremely difficult.

The start is parking off the road that heads north on the east side of "the Old Course" at grid ref. NO502175. If it is busy you may have to park further along the road. Toilets and refreshments are available in season.

Access to the beach is available on short boardwalks from the main tarmac path immediately behind the beach. Depending on the tide you may be able to walk along the beach on firm wet sand otherwise you may need to walk on path by the dunes. West Beach was the location for the film "Chariots of Fire" and you might imagine the theme tune playing in your head as you enjoy the bracing walk.

It is a good idea to walk to Out Head as the crowds thin and you can walk and enjoy the peace and quiet. From Out Head you can see to the Angus Coast and Carnoustie the home of another famous golf course. To return to the start retrace your steps along the beach.

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