St Andrews Cathedral, St Andrews (Fife)

11C Cathedral

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop

Introduction

The remains of what was Scotland’s largest and most magnificent church still show how impressive St Andrews Cathedral must have been in its prime. Its museum houses a collection of early and later medieval sculpture as well as other relics found on the site. Spectacular views from St Rule’s tower.

Open all year, Apr-Sep, daily 9.30-5.30; Oct-Mar, daily 9.30-4.30. Closed 25-26 Dec & 1-2 Jan.

History to the present day

St Andrews Cathedral dominated the history of the medieval church in Scotland from its construction in the 12th century until the Protestant Reformation in 1560.

Scotland’s largest and most magnificent medieval church, the cathedral was the seat of Scotland’s leading bishops (and from 1472 archbishops). It occupied a site used for worship since the 8th century AD, when the relics of St Andrew, Scotland’s patron saint, are said to have been brought here.

The cathedral buildings are surrounded by a graveyard, and encircled by the most complete and imposing monastic enclosure walls in Scotland. Even in its ruinous state the cathedral remains a prominent landmark, the focus of the three medieval streets of St Andrews, and highly visible from the sea.

The cathedral was begun in 1160–2 by Bishop Arnold. Work continued over the next 150 years, interrupted by a storm in 1272 which blew down the west front, and the first War of Independence against England (1296–1307). The cathedral was eventually dedicated in 1318, in the presence of King Robert I, by which date it was by far the largest church in Scotland.

The cathedral church is now ruined. Substantial, and superb, fragments survive, including the east gable of the presbytery, where the relics of St Andrew were held in veneration, the south wall of the nave, and the majestic west front. The cloister to the south retains its ruined chapter house and stone-vaulted undercrofts. The latter now house the cathedral museum, with its fascinating collection spanning the period from the 8th century to post-Reformation times.

Other facilities

There is a primary display of carved stones in the visitor centre and a display of post reformation grave stones.  

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: , Fife, , United Kingdom

Parking is available on the adjacent busy street.

The cathedral is located in St Andrews on the A91.