Top-Quality Cottage in a Secluded Walled Garden, 60 Seconds from the Old Course's 1st Tee | Sleeps 4
Experience top-quality accommodation tucked inside a private, secluded walled garden in the heart of historic St Andrews. With the Old Course just over 100 metres away, you are around a 60-second walk to the 1st tee, with West Sands Beach, great restaurants and cafés all within easy walking distance.
Sleeping 4 guests, the cottage has two en-suite bedrooms and a bright, modern layout designed for comfort in every season. Guests have exclusive use of the entire property.
The Space
Offering 50 m² of detached accommodation, the main lounge features a full-height glass wall with calming garden views and direct access to a private deck with outdoor seating — ideal for unwinding after a day in town or on the links. A well-equipped kitchen and dining area provides everything needed for a self-catering stay.
The property is located at the back of 6A Playfairs: access is via a black gate marked 6 on Gillespie Wynd — enter the gate and follow the garden path, and The Whins is to the left with the glass front. For larger parties, The Whins Cottage can be booked together with nearby 6A Playfairs, creating an ideal set-up for bigger golf groups who want to stay close by while still enjoying their own space and privacy.
✓ Main lounge with full-height glass wall and garden views
✓ Private deck with outdoor seating
✓ Flat-screen TV and effect fireplace
✓ Free WiFi
✓ Washing machine and dryer
✓ Central heating
✓ Secluded walled garden setting
The well-equipped kitchen includes:
✓ Induction hob and oven
✓ Refrigerator and freezer
✓ Dishwasher
✓ Dishes, cutlery, plates and bowls
✓ Wine glasses
Sleeping Arrangements
Bedroom 1
✓ Double bed
✓ En-suite shower room
✓ Quality bedding
Bedroom 2
✓ Double bed
✓ En-suite shower room
✓ Quality bedding
Maximum Occupancy: 4 Guests
Bathrooms
En-suite 1
✓ Shower
✓ WC and wash basin
En-suite 2
✓ Shower
✓ WC and wash basin
Property Features
✓ Sleeps up to 4 guests
✓ 2 Double Bedrooms, Both with En-suites
✓ Around 60 Seconds' Walk to the Old Course 1st Tee
✓ Private, Secluded Walled Garden Setting
✓ Full-Height Glass Wall with Garden Views
✓ Private Deck with Outdoor Seating
✓ Exclusive Use of the Entire Property
✓ Can Be Booked Together with 6A Playfairs for Larger Golf Groups
✓ Free WiFi
✓ Dishwasher, Washing Machine and Dryer
✓ Central Heating
Perfect For
✓ Golfers — around a 60-second walk to the Old Course's 1st tee
✓ Bigger golf groups — book together with nearby 6A Playfairs
✓ Couples and small families
✓ Guests who value privacy and seclusion in the town centre
✓ City-break stays without a car — the bus station is about a 2-minute walk
Location
The Whins Cottage sits inside a private, secluded walled garden in the heart of historic St Andrews, at the back of 6A Playfairs — access is via a black gate marked 6 on Gillespie Wynd (56.342505, -2.800283). The Old Course is just over 100 metres away, with West Sands Beach, great restaurants and cafés all within easy walking distance, and the bus station about a 2-minute walk away with easy links to local towns and the East Neuk fishing villages.
Nearby Attractions
✓ The Old Course — just over 100 metres away
✓ West Sands Beach
✓ St Andrews Town Centre — on the doorstep
✓ University of St Andrews
✓ St Andrews Cathedral and Castle
✓ The East Neuk fishing villages — easy bus links
Nearby Golf Courses
✓ St Andrews Old Course — around 60 seconds to the 1st tee
✓ The New Course
✓ Jubilee Course
✓ Castle Course
✓ Kingsbarns Golf Links
✓ Crail Golfing Society
✓ Dumbarnie Links
✓ Lundin Golf Club
Parking
Parking is available on street close to the property. Spaces are not allocated and can be limited during peak periods.
Parking details are correct at the point of publication. Car park charges, capacity, opening hours and availability are set by third parties and may change without notice, and we cannot be held responsible for inaccurate information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many guests can the property accommodate?
A: The cottage sleeps up to 4 guests in two double bedrooms, both with en-suite shower rooms.
Q: How far is the Old Course?
A: Just over 100 metres — around a 60-second walk from the cottage to the 1st tee.
Q: How do I find the cottage?
A: The property is located at the back of 6A Playfairs. Access is via a black gate marked 6 on Gillespie Wynd — enter the gate and follow the garden path; The Whins is to the left with the glass front.
Q: Can the cottage be booked for a larger group?
A: Yes — The Whins Cottage can be booked together with nearby 6A Playfairs, creating an ideal set-up for bigger golf groups who want to stay close by while enjoying their own space and privacy.
Q: Is parking available?
A: There is no private parking with the property; however, on-street parking is available nearby. Spaces are not allocated and can be limited during peak periods.
Q: Does the cottage have outdoor space?
A: Yes, the lounge opens directly onto a private deck with outdoor seating, set within the secluded walled garden.
Q: Are children welcome?
A: Yes, children are welcome. Please note that this accommodation does not accept groups of young people (up to 18 years).
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: No, pets are not allowed in the property.
Q: Is smoking allowed?
A: No, smoking is not permitted anywhere in the property. Parties and events are not permitted.
Q: Is it cheaper to book directly with us?
A: Yes. Booking direct is cheaper. Use a discount code from our website, or sign up to our newsletter to receive one.
EPC Rating: C
Licence Number: FI-02247-F
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
You need to know
Property # 11655678
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
St. Andrews
Located in St. Andrews, this cottage is in a rural area. Swilken Bridge and Hamish McHamish Statue are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Old Course at St Andrews and Lundin Golf Club. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Tannadice Park or Dens Park.
Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
St. Andrew's Cathedral - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
St. Andrew's Castle - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
Getting around
Leuchars Station - 13 min drive
Dundee (DND) - 33 min drive
Restaurants
The Dunvegan Hotel - 3 min walk
Rector's Café - 4 min walk
Taste - 2 min walk
Dune St Andrews - 5 min walk
Bibi's Cafe - 1 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is The Whins Cottage | St Andrews pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Whins Cottage | St Andrews?
As of 8 Oct 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Whins Cottage | St Andrews on 6 Dec 2026 start from £470, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
What time is check-in at The Whins Cottage | St Andrews?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Whins Cottage | St Andrews?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Whins Cottage | St Andrews located?
Situated in a rural location, this cottage is steps away from University of St. Andrews and Old Course at St Andrews. Lundin Golf Club and Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews are just steps away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Very convenient location for walking St. Andrews and golf. The 2 bedroom 2 bath layout was perfect for our stay. Loved sitting in the garden. Convenience of your own kitchen and laundry a huge plus. Will stay again.
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Sept 2026
Thank you for staying with us. Your feedback is very valuable to us.
We hope you had an enjoyable stay and we look forward to welcoming you again.
Kind regards, Short Stay St Andrews
We had a small issue with the check in process, but once that was resolved, the stay at the Whins Cottage was great. The photos of the property were very accurate. The cottage is centrally located in St. Andrews near all the important sights. The unit itself is great for four people. It has two bedrooms and 2.5 baths with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. If I ever make it back to St. Andrews, I will definitely stay at the Whins Cottage.
Very well-maintained and great location! The host accommodated our request to enter early once they had cleaned and performed their inspection after the previous guest departed. They also welcomed us with a box of shortbread and a bottle of Prosecco. We really enjoyed our stay, and we would definitely stay again if we return to St. Andrews.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Brad
2 Dec 2025
Always a little nicer than other property owners
Short Stay is now my first search when we need a place to stay in St Andrews. Compared to other property owners, your properties are always a little nicer, newer, and better than the pictures. The little touches also show you care about our experience. Thanks again.
About the host
Hosted by Short Stay St Andrews
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests