Dundee & St. Andrews, Scotland

St. Andrews: ‘Chariots of Fire’ Run

St. Andrews Cathedral. Flickr: Daniel Peckham
St. Andrews Castle. CC: Tom Parnell

Run a 10k scenic waterfront route past the world’s oldest public golf course, and then along the beach where the iconic Chariots of Fire was filmed. A unique and historic route in the seaside town of St. Andrews on Scotland’s east coast. St. Andrews is known for its numerous ‘links’ golf courses. The terrain of the area is open, scenic, and hilly. This route can be combined or mixed with our other St. Andrews run that passes through several parks along Cairnsmill Burn.

Start across from East Sands on Shore Road, enjoying great views as you take the 0.5 mile out and back jaunt to St. Andrews Pier. Then head west on shore road, with views above the water, passing several historic sites: St Rules Tower, St Andrews Cathedral, and St Andrews Castle. At ~1 mile, reach the University of St Andrews, the 1400s university with historic, city-wide buildings and some nice additional paths for running. Pass the Wardlaw Museum, and then the St. Andrews Golf Course, with its historic Swilken Bridge. Just past the Aquarium, continue on W. Sands Rd. for up to 2.5 miles to the end. There are nice water views over the windswept grasslands of St. Andrews.

Be sure to also dip down to West Sands Beach, where Chariots of Fire was filmed. The nearly 3-mile beach is very scenic for running (though not that wide, could be affected by tides). There’s also a 5k race, held each June.

Add-Ons: Can combine with all or part of our Lade Braes Walk route. Connect to it off Scores Rd. art the University of St Andrews.

Chariots of Fire 5k. Creative Commons: Jackie Proven

 

 

Essentials
  • 3.1 miles (5 km) one-way, with numerous add-on options. 10k out and back
  • 75 feet (23m) one-way, headed west
  • Balgay Park
  • Parking near the tennis courts

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Essentials
  • 3.1 miles (5 km) one-way, with numerous add-on options. 10k out and back
  • 75 feet (23m) one-way, headed west
  • Balgay Park
  • Parking near the tennis courts