History made daily in St Andrews

Thursday 24 July 2003

International, British, and local visitors can again experience a unique insight into the ancient history of both the town of St Andrews and its world-class University thanks to the efforts of two of the University’s students.

Whilst most of the students have gone home for the summer recess Jonathan Tyrens and Kate Falconer have elected instead to take on the responsibility of running the official Historical Tours which take place twice daily (Monday to Friday) until the end of August, starting from St Salvators Chapel on North Street, and lasting for about an hour.

Wearing the traditional scarlet gown, Jonathan and Kate lead the tour to those places where famous historical events have taken place. One site of particular interest marks the spot where the first martyr of the Reformation, Patrick Hamilton, was burned at the stake in the 1528. His initials are to be found engraved in the pavement outside the entrance to St Salvator’s quadrangle, and legend has it that should an enrolled undergraduate of the university walk on these letters they will not graduate! Most students subscribe to this myth and can be seen sidestepping the area. There is also the chance to glean more about some of the student traditions at Scotland’s oldest university.

In St Salvator’s quadrangle the history of the university is unfolded and the chapel itself is one of the most fascinating aspects of the tour. Other famous landmarks include the Castle and 12th century Cathedral. The tour concludes in the quadrangle of St Mary’s, where Parliament Hall was indeed home to the Scottish Parliament in 1645-46.

Remarking on his tour guide experiences so far, Jonathan says:

“Given the small size of the town, it is surprising how cosmopolitan St Andrews is.”

“It’s great to meet people from every corner of the world, each fascinated by this stunning place.”

Visitors that have enjoyed the tour so far have come from as far away as Argentina, the United States of America, and a host of European countries. To add to the international flavour, the tour is also available in French.

Adult tickets cost £4 with concessions at £3.50. Group bookings can be made with groups of 20 or more receiving a 10% discount, with a maximum of 30 people per guide. There is also a family ticket available at £10 for up to 2 adults and 3 children aged under sixteen. Tickets can be purchased direct from the Admissions reception in Butts Wynd, next to St Salvator’s quadrangle, contactable on 01334 462150.

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media On behalf of the University of St Andrews Ref: Historical Tours PR View the latest University news at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk


Category Student experience

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