Meet the Family behind West Sands Private Tours

What makes us unique? The personal touch. Private tours courtesy of a family intrinsically linked to the ancient town whose memories and experiences span many years. Whether your interest lies in history, golf, the university or all three, we would love the opportunity to share with you both our knowledge and personal anecdotes - of which there are many.

‘The beauty of St Andrews is its ability to make every moment feel timeless.’

Trish | Tour Guide & Writer

You could say that St Andrews is in my blood. My childhood was shaped by this historic town, having gone to school here from the age of four. Yes, four! Happy memories of formative years in which the West Sands featured prominently, that wonderful stretch of sand and sea. Much has changed since the Sixties but the history remains and I love nothing more than to regale my anecdotes spanning the years.

While my siblings and I were educated here, my father was a golfer and a proud member of the Royal & Ancient and thus the town was nothing if not important to our family. I may have left to go to university and get married but, somehow, one never really leaves. My parents remained in the family home in Cupar and we returned often, insuring Manny and Becca, too, grew to know and love St Andrews. Manny, of course, is a golfer and Becca chose to study here ... Returning ‘home’ in 2019, I spent my time writing - my passion - until discovering the joys of being a tour guide: the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and tell them about a place I love and know so well; to wander and chat, engage and regale. Fun, facts and friends? Never boring! Come and see.

‘We didn’t realise we were making memories, we just knew we were having fun.’

A.A.Milne

Manny | Photographer

My name on paper? Andrew, obviously. Named after the town itself, this venture is a bit of a given … Known now as ‘Manny’ after a very short stint as ‘Wee Man’ (I quickly grew out of that one).

Why photography? Well, I grew up with cameras following me wherever I went - I didn’t appreciate it at the time! Now, there’s nothing I value more than photographs - real, printed photographs, with dates, albums … the ability to revisit your favourite memories, to remind you of your favourite days.

Based between Edinburgh and St Andrews, I’m happiest with a camera or golf club in hand - it’s all about the next shot!

I look forward to meeting you and helping you remember your trip to this very special place, St Andrews.

‘Time which none can bind While flowing fast away, leaves love behind.’

Robert Louis Stevenson

Becca | St Andrews Graduate, Teacher & Tour Guide

We like to cover all bases! Meet Becca who was lucky enough to study at St Andrews University from 2007-11, returning to do a Masters in Ancient History from 2012-13. Given the chance, she would have been an eternal student here, she loved it so much. Already very familiar with the town, her childhood memories are of the happy times she spent with her grandparents who continued to live nearby. ‘Growing up’ to be a Classics teacher, she ended up spending two years at St Leonards - circle of life - before following her heart to Rome where she has been teaching at St Stephen’s, a prestigious international school, for the past three years ... St Andrews is still home, however, and she returns whenever she can, particularly in the long summer months - perfect for West Sands tours!

A font of practical knowledge regarding the ancient university, she completes our little triumvirate - childhood/history, golf/photography and university!

‘Childhood memories are the threads of our soul.’

A.A.Milne

FAQs

  • All information will be enclosed in a personal email upon booking. Our tours start at the bandstand (at Bow Butts) but we are more than happy to meet you at your hotel/place of residence in St Andrews. Let’s discuss!

  • This is a walking terrain which requires a certain degree of fitness. Distances may vary dependent on interest and, of course, there will be plenty of breaks for chat and photographs. While every effort can be made to accommodate those requiring a wheelchair, there are certain areas which pose accessibility difficulties.

  • We understand that plans can change. Due to demand, we ask that you let us know with as much notice as possible. A full refund will be granted up to a week in advance of the tour. No refunds less than 7 days before the tour.

  • English only (although, if available, Becca does speak fluent Italian).

  • Participants are responsible for their own safety during our walking tours. While we take every precaution to ensure safety, we accept no liability for personal injury, loss, or damage to personal belongings during the tour. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear and being mindful of your surroundings at all times.