Above-par living in St Andrews as the town reflects on a weekend of world-class golf

There are few places in the world that stir my soul quite like St Andrews. As a member of a St Andrews golf club, I’ve been lucky to play the Old Course many times. But beyond the fairways and greens, it’s the residential market here that truly captivates me. And right now, two properties stand above the rest: 18 The Scores and Hamilton Grand.

A timely spotlight on Scotland’s golfing capital

Last weekend, St Andrews welcomed some of Europe’s finest golfers for a celebrated tournament played across its legendary links. The buzz may have quietened, but the town’s timeless appeal endures — not just as the home of golf, but as a place where heritage, sport, and lifestyle converge.

Exceptional propeties at the heart of St Andrews

The Scores is no ordinary address. It runs from the 18th green of the Old Course past the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse, along the clifftops above the sea, to the ruins of St Andrews Castle. It’s a street steeped in history, prestige, and architectural beauty. And number 18 The Scores is an above-par home in every sense. This extraordinary conversion blends period elegance with contemporary brilliance. Behind its modest façade lies 3,359 square feet of open-plan living, including two self-contained guest suites tucked into a beautifully landscaped, south-facing garden. The interiors are flooded with natural light, thanks to a dramatic roof light and full-height sliding glass doors that open onto decked terraces, perfect for entertaining or quiet reflection. From the rooftop balcony, one can gaze out to sea. Inside, every detail – from the bespoke kitchen to the marble fireplaces and wood-burning stoves – speaks of craftsmanship and care.

Just a few steps away, Hamilton Grand offers a different kind of grandeur. This iconic red sandstone building, once a luxury hotel and later a university hall of residence, has been reimagined as one of the most prestigious residential addresses in Scotland. Overlooking the 18th green of the Old Course, Hamilton Grand combines heritage architecture with modern luxury. The available apartment offers panoramic views of the course and coastline, with interiors that reflect timeless elegance and comfort. It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of golfing history in a building that has hosted royalty, legends, and luminaries.

A local market with global appeal

My colleague Faisal Choudhry, Head of Residential Research in Scotland, tells me that over the past five years, nearly 48% of Savills buyers in St Andrews have come from outside Scotland – including 28% from overseas. It’s no surprise. American buyers, in particular, are drawn to the town’s unique blend of heritage, academia, and coastal charm. Properties like 18 The Scores and Hamilton Grand speak directly to this international audience. These are not just homes; they are statements, sanctuaries, and legacies. The Scores’ postcode commands a premium: the average price per square foot here is £465, which is 127% higher than the Scotland-wide figure.

A decade of steady growth

In the 12 months to July 2025, the average residential transaction price in the town reached £481,000 – a 37% rise over the past decade. That figure stands 110% above the Scotland-wide average, underscoring St Andrews’ enduring strength and appeal. The Scores postcode has seen 99 residential transactions over £1 million in the past 10 years, making it the sixth highest in Scotland. The top five are all within Edinburgh, which speaks volumes about St Andrews’ stature outside the capital.

St Andrews is quite simply my favourite place – not just to play golf and unwind, but to help others discover its enduring magic. 18 The Scores and Hamilton Grand are genuinely exceptional – homes that reflect the very character of the town: refined, rich in heritage, and defined by timeless elegance.

We look forward to working with James Moor, part of our specialist Savills Golf team, and the wider residential team here in Scotland to find buyers who will truly appreciate these remarkable properties.