St Andrews is a charming coastal town rich in history and beauty. Known as the home of golf and with Scotland’s oldest university, this lovely Scottish town has great architecture, stunning beaches and a vibrant local culture. In this guide, we’ll help you make the most of your St Andrews holidays, with tips on where to explore and what to see during your stay with us in Fife…

Where to stay

First things first, come and stay with us at Elderburn Lodges! Our self-catering lodges are only 3 miles from St Andrews, which is a quick 10-minute drive. Here, you get to enjoy the peace of the Fife countryside, while being in easy reach of the town centre. We have 5 beautiful holiday cottages to choose from. Our smaller lodges sleep up to 4 guests, while our larger lodges can accommodate between 6 and 8. We have one accessible lodge and one with a hot tub. All are luxurious and spacious, and we have options for couples, families and large groups. So, whatever type of holiday you are planning in St Andrews, we can help.

Eating and drinking

Our lodges are self-catering, which means you can choose whether to eat in or go out. If eating in, there’s lots of fresh, local produce for you to try. Visit these local farm shops and sample some of the amazing tastes and flavours that St Andrews has to offer. With a well-equipped kitchen and comfortable dining area in your lodge, you can enjoy a home-from-home experience. On days when you’d rather eat out, there are so many wonderful cafes, pubs and restaurants in St Andrews. We’ve listed some of our favourites here. If you’d like a more personalised recommendation, simply ask us before or during your stay.

Things to see and do

There is so much for you to discover in St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife. It is a spectacular part of Scotland, with a rich history and beautiful scenery. We have written a helpful things to do guide and we are constantly adding to it. This shows you all the best local attractions, historical sites, outdoor activities, walking trails, beaches, whisky distilleries and so much more! We’ve also recommended some of the nearby towns and villages, which are great for a day trip.

The home of golf

St Andrews is revered as the home of golf, and playing here is a bucket-list experience. The Old Course, with its legendary Swilcan Bridge and Road Hole, is open to the public via ballot or advance booking. Even if you don’t play, visiting the World Golf Museum and walking the course at sunset is a must. Golfers can also explore other excellent courses on St Andrews Links and at Kingsbarns. You can find out more in our golf guide.

Visiting the university

Founded in 1413, the University of St Andrews is Scotland’s oldest and steeped in tradition. The campus is spread throughout the town, making it easy to explore on foot. You can follow the Town and Gown Walk to take in the stunning architecture, including St Salvator’s Chapel and St Mary’s Quadrangle. The walk also includes amazing historical sites like St Andrews Castle and Cathedral.

Sighteeing tours

If you’d like to see more of Scotland during your stay with us, travel tour companies such as St Andrews Luxury Travel can help. They can pick you up at our lodges and take you on a bespoke private tours to explore top attractions, Outlander locations, museums and galleries, whisky distilleries and much more besides. Contact them here to arrange your private tour.

We hope this guide will help you plan your St Andrews holidays, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Elderburn Lodges for a visit to remember. If you need any further suggestions or you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Book your stay today!

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Guest feedback plays a vital role in shaping what we do. Every comment helps us to see what’s working well and where we have room to grow. We also know that reviews matter to you, as they help guide your travel choices. That’s why we truly value the time our guests take to share their thoughts. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the top platforms where you can find reviews about staying at Elderburn Lodges…

TripAdvisor

Our reviews on TripAdvisor are almost entirely 5*, which reflects our high-quality accommodation, exemplary service and great value. Read the reviews here and leave your own here.

“Second time staying at Elderburn cottages and it was perfect. Such a lovely location, convenient for trips to the beach and to St Andrews. It’s perfect for us as a family with a wheelchair user. The rooms and layout works great. Can’t recommend it enough!”

– TripAdvisor Review 2025

Facebook

You can view more reviews on Facebook, where 96% of guests would recommend us. Explore our Facebook reviews here.

Instagram

Instagram is a great place to look for images, videos and comments from our recent guests. Search for mentions here or view our official page here.

Google

Take a look at our Google listing for more, which are again almost all 5* reviews. Read and write reviews here.

“A great place to stay near St Andrews. The lodge was clean and well-presented with all of the facilities you would need, and the location is rural and quiet. I suspect we’ll be back next year …“

– Google Review 2024

We truly appreciate all those who share their experiences and help others to discover Elderburn Lodges. If you’ve read the reviews and like what you’ve seen, why not take a look around? View our image gallery, explore our luxury lodges and see our latest special offers. If you’d like to speak to us directly, you can get in touch here and we’ll be happy to help!

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Pittweem is a beautiful village in the heart of Fife, which encapsulates the spirit of the region. On a stay with us at Elderburn Lodges, Pittenweem is only a 20-minute drive away and makes for a great day out. With a working harbour that boasts daily catches from the sea and even a cave said to once be inhabited by a saint, it’s a picture-perfect location to visit at any time of the year. However, come August, every inch of the town becomes a large art display, with homes and even garages opened up to display some of the finest artwork from local artists.

In 1982 the creative minds of Pittenweem came together and decided to exhibit their works in the spaces available to them in the village. Since then the festival has only grown, now welcoming hundreds of arts and crafts people from all over Britain. This unique creative hub exhibits works in studios, galleries, houses and public spaces making even the means of exhibiting works an art in itself.

What to see at the Pittenweem Arts Festival

The 2025 Pittenweem Arts Festival will take place from 2nd to 9th August.

Set in ‘painters paradise’ next to beautiful seascapes and rows of colourful seaside cottages, the festival runs for a week and welcomes thousands of visitors. There is a choice of exhibitions displaying artists’ works in a variety of media. From stunning abstract seascapes to contemporary jewellery and captivating sculptures, you will marvel at what is around every corner.

Every year, an invited artist is featured. This year, it’s Gail McGarva. Her exhibition, Disappearing Lines, highlights fading boat and maritime traditions. Central to her display is the Story Boat, a restored Dorset fishing vessel turned miniature theatre. You can see Gail’s work, along with many other exhibiting artists, at this year’s festival.

There is also an action-packed programme of events planned. Highlights include the Festival Opening Gala on Saturday 2nd August. This is the official launch with fun for all ages. Then across the week, there will be many music, workshops, talks, performances and family events.

The perfect Fife day trip this August

The Pittenweem Arts Festival is definitely worth a day trip to experience. There is a stewarded car park available to make parking easy and you can pick up a colourful festival brochure there or in many of the venues to get a complete guide to what is on. You can also view the complete programme online.

Our Elderburn Lodges provide the perfect accommodation, just a short drive away in the beautiful town of St Andrews. If you haven’t yet booked, please take a look at our holiday lodges here and check availability here. At time of writing, we still have some lodges available in August!

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Did you know it took 4,500 workers to build the Forth rail bridge? Were you aware that the Forth road bridge was the longest of bridge of its kind outside the US when it was built? The Forth Bridges have been famous landmarks on the Firth of Forth for many years. Now rising out of the water like a white angel is the new Queensferry Crossing. Joining the family of the famous duo, each bridge has its own story to tell. Of all the places to visit in Fife, this location is iconic and absolutely worth a visit.

Telling the story of three bridges

Travellers would cross from Lothian to Fife in the area well before the invention of trains and cars. As methods of transport evolved so did the need for alternative ways of crossing this expanse of water.

Through remarkable feats of engineering, these bridges rose out of the water thanks to hundreds of workers, many of whom risked their lives to build them. The rail bridge came first and was completed in 1890. It had a total length of 2,467. and its highest point is 110m above water level. It is still in regular use to this day, and you can easily buy tickets and take a train ride across and back.

The Forth Road Bridge came next, completed in in 1964. It’s over 2.5km long. Until relatively recently was still used daily by motorists. Today, it has been semi-retired. The bridge is now for exclusive use by pedestrians, cyclists and public transportation vehicles.

Finally, in 2017, the Queensferry Crossing opened. For exclusive use by motorway traffic (you cannot walk across it), it is s the longest 3-tower, cable-stayed bridge in the world. at 2.7km. It’s absolutely worth a drive over to admire it’s beautiful design, and also the breathtaking views of the other two bridges spanning the Forth.

Perfect family day out in Fife

The bridges are a little under an hours drive south from Elderburn, and are worth a day trip to see. For many, it’s a bucket-list achievement. Take a trip over and stop for something to eat in South Queensferry. Also, don’t miss an opportunity to take a boat ride onto the water and see the bridges from a whole new perspective!

Build Bridges and visit us in Fife!

Our self-catering accommodation is near St Andrews, here in Fife and a beautiful drive from the bridges. Check out our special offers to choose the best time of year to visit. Find out more by getting in touch today. Call us on 07840 801 114 or email us here. So come along and discover more places to visit in Fife!

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If you’re staying with us at Elderburn Lodges this July, put this date in your diary. The St Andrews Highland Games is taking place on Sunday July 27, 2025. Tickets are available to buy online now. So secure your tickets now and look forward to a great family day out in Fife.

So what is on at St Andrews Highland Games?

If you are a native, then you’re likely to know what to expect from the Highlands Games. But if you are visiting, you are in for a treat when you see how we Scots do it! One of the main attractions and most famous of the Highland Games sports is the Heavy Weights competition. Here you will see athletes in their kilts displaying great strength. From tossing the caber, throwing the hammer, throwing the weight and putting the shot, you will be in awe of these mighty Scots!

Other events may include the tug o’ war, where two teams heave on either side of a strong rope to see who can out-pull the other. Cycling races and running events allow participants to demonstrate their skill and speed to see who can be the fastest in their field.

Traditional music and dancing

Developed in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Highland dancing has become an integral part of the Scottish Highlands Games. Here you will see dancers draped in tartan, flinging, jumping and manoeuvring their limbs and bodies with great skill and agility to demonstrate their technique and artistry in this masterful form of dance. Performed to the sound of bagpipes, you will experience the true essence of all things Scottish as the sounds and sites envelope your senses.

Solo bagpiping sees pipers compete against each other to the sounds of our national and iconic bagpipe music. With plenty happening you are spoilt for choice and can spectate at your pleasure on your day at the St Andrews Highland Games.

Where and when?

So if this has tuned up your pipes and you are raring to go, then you need to know when and where it is all happening. The superb venue is at Station Park, in front of the Old Course Hotel at the entrance to St Andrews from Dundee/ Cupar. Be ready for a fun-filled day on Sunday 27th July. Find out more and get your tickets here.

Book your self-catering accommodation here and enjoy a perfect summer holiday with a Scottish twist. Please contact us if you need any assistant at all with your booking.

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We really are spoiled for choice when it comes to farm shops in Fife. The huge choice of excellent food and drink is really quite astounding for a wee corner of Scotland. Food bloggers come from far and wide to taste our fares, so you should definitely try to visit a few shops while staying with us. We promise you won’t be disappointed. Here are our top 5 – all within 13 miles of Elderburn Lodges.

Ardross Farm Shop

Ardross Farm Shop is run by the lovely Pollock family, who sell their own homegrown vegetables, grass-fed beef and lamb. They also stock fantastic free-range eggs, rare breed bacon and local pork, world-renowned venison, organic lamb and mutton, wild border game, delicious free-range chickens, ready meals, British wines and beers, handmade chocolates, luxury jams and marmalades, divine puddings and ice creams to name a few. The view alone is worth the trip along the coast. (13 miles)

Balgove Larder

Just a few miles from Elderburn this foodie heaven is often VERY busy – and for good reason. They run Balgove Larder Farm Shop, along with a butcher, café, steak barn and flower shed. The farm shop offers a variety of locally sourced products, including meats from its own farm, seasonal produce and artisanal goods. Balgove Larder has been recognised for its commitment to quality and sustainability, earning accolades such as Scotland’s Best Farm Shop. (5 miles)

Blacketyside Farm Shop & Tearoom

The Tod family run the lovely Blacketyside Farm Shop and serve fabulous home baking, farmhouse lunches and afternoon tea. They are also a working fruit farm so you are guaranteed to pick up the freshest berries around. The gift shop is stocked with lots of crafts and gifts, plus homemade ready meals to save you cooking at all while on holiday. (11 miles)

Cairnie Fruit Farm

A café, farm shop, pick-your-own berries, and enough activities to keep your kids entertained for a week. Cairnie Fruit Farm Shop is open from around March to October. Here, you can unleash your inner foodie and gather your own strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, brambles, tayberries, red/blackcurrants, cherries and pumpkins. The huge Maize Maze grows to a height in excess of 8 feet, and is fun for all ages. There is also: a go-cart track, giant straw bale climbing fortress, sunken trampolines, a massive sandbox, crazy swings, slides, a young farmers yard with ride-on peddle tractors, loaders and trailers, an XL bouncing pillow, 30m flying fox, a 4wd ATV Barrel Bug Ride. Phew. (8 miles)

Pittormie Fruit Farm Shop

Pittormie Fruit Farm Shop sells a variety of fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, including strawberries, tayberries, raspberries and other unique varieties. The shop also features free-range eggs and a selection of homemade jams, jellies, marmalades, chutneys and lemon curd. Additionally, they stock Heather Ales’ fruit beers and Cairn O’Mohr’s fruit wines. During winter months, an honesty shed provides access to some produce. The farm also has a nursery with a selection of shrubs and bedding plants, including hanging baskets and tubs. (7 miles)

So, what are you waiting for? These are some of the best farm shops near St Andrews in Fife, but don’t just take our word for it, come and see for yourself!

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Scotland’s natural larder is envied the world over, but here in Fife we are truly spoiled. Delicious foods from sea, land and air can be found in our many Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as local farmers’ markets and farm shops. So, here are some Scottish food items you should try on your next visit to Elderburn Lodges in Fife…

Fresh seafood

With a coastline of 117 miles and a strong fishing heritage, it’s no wonder the Kingdom of Fife produces an abundance of quality seafood. If you find yourself in one of the East Neuk’s quaint wee fishing villages, you can take your pick from the boats hauling in a daily catch of prawns, crab and lobster. There really are little few other locations in Scotland other than beautiful Fife to get this fresh, quality seafood. Also, don’t miss out on Anstruther fish and chips, widely regarded as some of the best in Scotland.

Fife berries

And Fife’s fertile soil also yields some wonderful crops. At Cairnie Fruit Farm near Cupar, you can pick your own strawberries, raspberries, black and redcurrants, gooseberries, tayberries, brambles and cherries. That’s a lot of berries. And the potential for a lot of jams! This not only has the perfect taste of fresh, wholesome fruit, but takes the family on a fun day out.

Farmhouse cheese

Fife is home to the renowned St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese, an artisan cheese made using traditional methods. Produced on a small family-run dairy farm, this rich cheese is crafted from unpasteurised milk, giving it a deep, complex flavour. Whether you prefer the crumbly Anster or the creamy cheddar, you can enjoy this local delicacy with oatcakes or fresh bread.

Scottish oatcakes

Crisp Scottish oatcakes are made from locally sourced oats and have a distinctive, slightly nutty flavour. They make an excellent accompaniment to St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese, smoked salmon, or even a simple spread of butter and jam. Available in local bakeries, farm shops and markets around the town, they are a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Scotch pies

A staple of Scottish cuisine, Scotch pies are a must-try when visiting Fife. These are small, round meat pies, traditionally filled with spiced minced mutton or beef and encased in a firm, golden pastry shell. Bakeries across Fife, such as Fisher & Donaldson in St Andrews and local butchers, produce some of the best versions of this classic snack. Often enjoyed hot or as part of a picnic, these savoury pies are a satisfying and flavorful taste of Scotland.

Bacon and meats

Puddledub is a family-run farm, based in Auchtertool, renowned for its high-quality, free-range pork products, particularly its award-winning bacon. Puddledub takes pride in traditional farming methods and ethical animal welfare, resulting in exceptional flavours. Their streaky bacon, sausages and black pudding are favourites in local butchers and farm shops, perfect for a full Scottish breakfast or a hearty sandwich. Many restaurants and cafés across Fife incorporate Puddledub pork into their menus, making it easy to sample this delicious local produce.

Chillilicious chillis

Adding a spicy twist to Fife’s food scene, Chillilicious is Scotland’s original chilli farm, located near Ceres. This innovative farm grows a variety of chillies, from mild to fiery, and creates a range of unique chilli-based products, including chutneys, jams and even chocolate. Their artisan hot sauces and relishes are perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

Something special!

To get a true flavour of Fife, visit the farmers’ markets that take place every Saturday on rotation in Kirkcaldy, St Andrews, Dunfermline and Cupar.

So with all this delicious, organic and natural food on the doorstep, a Scottish getaway at Elderburn Lodges makes a perfect retreat filled with treats!

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St Andrews is renowned, not only for its historical significance and golfing heritage, but also for its vibrant array of unusual shops. Here’s our list of some of the best shops that you can visit during a stay in our nearby luxury lodges.

Topping Books

Escape into Narnia and lose yourself in incredible literature for the afternoon. Head on over to Topping Books and enjoy a range of events in store including author meetings, food tasting and even poetry readings!

I J Mellis Cheesemonger

For cheese lovers, I J Mellis is a treasure trove of high-quality farmhouse cheeses. This specialist cheesemonger prides itself on offering traditional, full-flavoured cheeses made using time-honoured methods.

Artery Gallery

Priding itself on being affordable, accessible and original, the Artery Gallery is a showcase of local artists and talent. A family-run business, the gallery has delightful gifts and unique treats that will make the best souvenirs for remembering your St. Andrews break.

James Pirie

James Pirie, a leading retailer in crystal, houses stunning gifts and collectables for that something extra special. Treat yourself to a classic collectable and furnish your home as the Victorian villas and mansions of St Andrews have done since this shop opened in 1890.

Fisher and Donaldson

Not quite a shopping spot, but rather a perfect destination for a mid-shopping break, Fisher and Donaldson is a fifth-generation family bakery. Delight in their world-famous cakes, chocolates and bread. With seven bakeries dotted across Scotland, head on down to the St. Andrews flagship store to find out what the fuss is about.

Auchterlonies of St Andrews

As one of the oldest golf shops in St Andrews, established in 1895, Auchterlonies offers a comprehensive range of golf equipment and apparel. This family-run business is steeped in golfing history, making it a popular stop for golfers.

The Old Course Shop

Another golfing must! The Old Course Shop is based at the legendary Old Course in St Andrews. It boasts an extensive selection of men’s and women’s apparel, featuring exclusive collaborations and special collections. From classic tartan and luxurious knitwear to stylish kids’ clothing, elegant glassware and unique accessories.

Luvians Bottle Shop

Luvians Bottle Shop sells some of the rarest tipples to tantalise you. Passion permeates this shop and everyone is welcome to come along and hear all about the alcoholic delights. Whisky, wine, champagne and much, much more, there is something for every palate!

Wemyss Ware

Wemyss Ware dating back to 1882 must not be missed! Tuck in your handbags and explore the most sought-after Scottish pottery. Stunning painted pigs, cats, animals, tableware, tiles and much more you will be in awe! Using a secret painting technique passed down the generations, you can buy a unique gift to cherish for life.

Bonkers Gift Shop

Bonkers offers an eclectic mix of gifts, cards, books, toys and jewellery. This award-winning retailer is celebrated for its innovative and unique product range, making it a must-visit for those seeking distinctive souvenirs or presents.

St. Andrews Shopping with Elderburn Lodges

Of course, any shopaholic knows the best way to get the most out of a shopping trip is proper rest and relaxation. Why not book into one of our gorgeous luxury lodges and indulge in everything St. Andrews shopping has to offer. Visit our special offers here.

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St Andrews, not three miles from our luxury lodges, is a scenic and historic Scottish town. As we leap into spring, it becomes a buzzing hub of activity with a host of festivals and events, guaranteed to tantalize and entertain. So, read on to find out what’s happening this spring in St Andrews…

StAnza Poetry Festival

14th – 16th March 2025

Kicking things off in March, the StAnza Poetry Festival brings together a varied programme of poetry, visual art, music and performances. St Andrews is the perfect setting for this creative and inspirational festival. This year, poets from Scotland, the UK and beyond unite to present the theme “How We Feel”.

St Andrews Cocktail Week

14th – 23rd March 2025

Enjoy exclusive discounts on cocktails and dining around St Andrews during St Andrews Cocktail Week. Simply buy a wristband to access these great deals in participating bars and restaurants.

On The Rocks

18th – 26th March 2025

On The Rocks is a student-run arts festival, which allows anyone who applies the chance to showcase their talents: be that in art, fashion, theatre or photography. It is now the largest student-run arts festival in the UK, hosting over 40 events every year.

Spring is the perfect time for a visit to St Andrews. From stunning views to exciting events, there’s tons to see and do around the town! Later, you can settle down in your very own Elderburn Luxury Lodge and unwind.

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Forget the fear of the school holidays, ditch the drama of planning and entertaining the kids at any cost, at Elderburn Lodges we have it covered. With spring well and truly in your step and the kids buzzing around like the fresh air bees, there are plenty of things to do and see that make Easter in St Andrews one of the most exciting places to visit in Scotland. Easter weekend falls from Friday 18th to Monday 21st April 2025. Let’s see what’s on…

NTS Easter Egg Trails

Selected dates & times, from 18th to 21st April

Over Easter weekend, the National Trust for Scotland is running its annual NTS Easter Egg Trails across the country. Enjoy a spring walk, solve clues along the way and win a chocolate reward! The trail at each site is completely different, so you can try as many as you like. Each trail sheet costs £5 and provides fun for all the family. Our nearest trails are at Kellie Castle and Garden, Hill of Tarvit Mansion and Garden, and Falkland Palace and Garden. You can find the full list here with dates and times.

Easter weekend at Craigtoun Country Park

Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th April, 10.30 am – 5 pm

Craigtoun Country Park is situated 5 minutes from St Andrews and offers a wide range of attractions, including acres of beautifully landscaped parkland, a fun adventure playground, boats and pedalos, bouncy castles, a putting green, a crazy golf course, a family-friendly cafe and one of Scotland’s oldest miniature railways! On Saturday and Sunday, the park will host an Easter Fayre, with crafts, stalls, activities and entertainment. Entry is free.

Crail Craft and Food Fayre

Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th April, 11 am – 4 pm

In the nearby picturesque fishing village of Crail, an Easter Craft and Food Fayre is taking place in the community hall. The family event will have arts, craft and food stalls set up in the small and large halls and a cafe will be open on both days. Entry is free.

When Easter is here and the chocolate is on order, turning the break into a holiday is just the ticket in and around St Andrews. Our family-friendly lodges have everything you need for a great Easter holiday with the kids!

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The Open and St Andrews

St Andrews hosted its first Open in 1873. Since then, its famous Old Course has set the stage for some of the most memorable moments in golf history. To date, St Andrews has hosted The Open a record 30 times, more than any other location. It has also hosted The Women’s Open on three occasions. St Andrews currently hosts the men’s Open every 5 years, with the last time being in 2022.

Attending The Open in 2027

If you’re interested in attending this prestigious golfing competition as a spectator, you can register your interest for tickets here. Tickets are usually allocated through a ballot system due to high demand, and more information will be released closer to the time.

Even if you don’t manage to secure a ticket, St Andrews is an exciting place to be during the tournament. The streets are packed with golf fans, creating a festival-like atmosphere with pop-up bars, big screens broadcasting the action and live entertainment. Local pubs and restaurants are filled with fans discussing every shot, while golf shops and stalls sell memorabilia.

Booking St Andrews accommodation

St Andrews becomes extremely busy during The Open, and you’ll need to book early to secure your accommodation. Our holiday lodges are the perfect location, just a 10-minute taxi to the Old Course itself. Our online booking calendar isn’t yet open for 2027, so please contact us directly to enquire about availability and prices.

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Don’t worry, it’s not as bad as some people may tell you. For those new to Scotland, however, the midge might not be a well-known beast. It certainly doesn’t show up easily on photographs, and it’s not the sort of creature that will tip over your bins at night. No, the midge (pronounced midjy…probably) is a tiny little fly that, by its own, would be almost irrelevant. However, it likes to hang about with a few thousand of its friends making it into a very bitey cloud. Fortunately, we Scots have have hundreds of years to prepare deterrents, and this blog will reveal some of our hard-fought secrets to you. 

What is a midge?

A Scottish midge is a tiny fly, barely bigger than the head of a ballpoint pen, which likes to travel in swarms. Their favourite food? Blood! Unlike the mosquitos found in other countries, midges don’t transmit disease to humans. They can leave an itchy, swelling lump though. These nibblesome insects enjoy a feast and can make an otherwise perfect picnic spot a rather uncomfortable location in which to stay. But fear not – here are some top tips to keep the Scottish midge away.

Have good genes!

Okay this is something you can’t really change, but you’ll probably notice something strange when a group of you are around midges. Some may not be bitten at all, whilst others are covered in bites within minutes. Doesn’t seem fair, does it? 

This all comes down – scientists think – to chemicals called ketones. They occur naturally in our bodies, and those who produce more of them tend to be bitten less. The midges must hate it! So if you are bitten all over and your friend isn’t, try not to be too offended. It’s all in the genes!

Avoid their patches

Midges mainly enjoy damp, shaded areas. This is often by water, and they especially like calm areas with little to no wind. You’ll often find them by the shores of a loch on a calm day, especially if the weather feels a bit damp. They also tend to be more aggressive in the early morning or late afternoon, giving you a nice window in between to view Scotland with minimal interruptions!

Elderburn is close to the stunning beaches of St Andrews, and by the sea is somewhere you rarely find midges. This makes it the perfect place to enjoy your holiday without being pestered!

Visit Scotland off-season

One of the reasons why visiting Scotland out of the summer holidays is worth considering is that there is a complete lack of midge! They hate the cold and you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye out for little clouds of teeth. So if you stay at Elderburn over the winter season you can enjoy the crisp sunny days without any bother. 

Midge hats

If you are looking to be the height of fashion when in midge country, then keep looking. One of the best ways to stay bite free is also one of the best ways to look like you are a beekeeper. Midge hats or midge nets are like little cloth bags for your head. The mesh is too small for midge to creep through and bite you, and you tighten the string around your neck just enough to keep them out, before tucking it into your top. Available online, the chaps in this video are sporting them with style!

Midge deterrents

If you are determined to stand your ground and keep midges from interrupting your play (good for you!) here are some tried and tested options:

Citronella candles

A few of these placed strategically around a picnic or seating area creates a smell which is lovely to our noses, but hated by the midge. They also provide a night light when the sun starts to set. You can find these at most Scottish supermarkets and DIY stores in the summer, as well as online throughout the year. 

Midge spray

A handy spray bottle in your pocket that can be used to keep midges at bay? Don’t mind if I do! One of the most popular is called Smidge, but word-of-mouth indicates that it works better for some people than others. Another option is using a DEET repellant, available at pharmacies and online. This might not be for everyone as these repellants kill other types of insect too, but they certainly are effective. 

Avon Skin-so-soft

Yes, you read that right. Whilst at Elderburn we’re all for everyone having nice skin if they want it, this stuff is actually one of the best ways to keep midges at bay. How was this unexpected purpose discovered? We’ll never know, but we’re passing on this top tip to you in the hope you can enjoy your Scottish break in peace and return home with beautifully soft skin too. Thank us later. You can buy this in shops, pharmacies and online. 

Take charge of the midge!

So there’s plenty of ways you can be the boss of the Scottish midge, and not let this little insect tell you what to do. Whether that’s topping up with a spray before you leave or being strategic in what you visit and when, you will be able to enjoy your Scottish holiday at Elderburn any time of the year. Check out our special offers and get booking today!

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