This recent addition to the historic town’s luxury scene has boutique appeal and stellar views

By Cheryl Caira. Lead image: the Sea View Terrace Suite

Relaxed chic

The exterior of Seaton House

As a magnet for the world’s golfers and with timeless picturesque appeal, St Andrews isn’t short of luxury accommodation offerings. Seaton House however – a new entry on the scene in 2025 – is the first in the town to be included in the prestigious ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ list. Formerly the Scores Hotel, there are 42 guestrooms, including six suites and three junior suites, where you can choose from a sea or garden view. 

The interiors sport traditional tartan and Scottish motifs, but with a polished, contemporary edge and thoughtful details. For relaxed eating and drinking, the light and airy Board Room offers classic fare – dishes such as cullen skink, fish and chips, and charcuterie boards furnished with cheese from I. J. Mellis. The dark panelled and stylish Bow Butts Bar is perfect for whiling away time with a coffee or malt whisky. The Silver Arrow competition – the oldest archery competition in Scotland – was apparently first held on the lawn outside the bar’s windows.

Seafood finesse

Seafood at Ondine

Scottish chef Roy Brett, who opened his renowned Edinburgh flagship Ondine in 2009, has now relocated his menu of flavourful Scottish produce to more coastal climes. Resident at Seaton House with stunning views as the ultimate accompaniment to dinner, it’s a sleek and appealing ambience for dinner and drinks. Allowing Scotland’s larder to shine is the order of the day – menus align with what’s seasonal and available locally, specialising in seafood and shellfish. There’s also the regular ‘Sundays at Seaton House’ – a special menu featuring treats like oysters, roast beef, monkfish, and all the trimmings.

Ondine restaurant

Iconic vistas

Let’s talk about those views. The restored venue’s pièce de résistance, there are sweeping views out to West Sands Beach – famous for the opening scenes of Chariots of Fire – and over the revered Old Course. It’s truly a joy to observe, from the minute the first lucky golfers arrive to play on the undulating fairway. The Sea View Terrace Suites, overlooking the first tee and Royal and Ancient Clubhouse, offer a particularly breathtaking view. A glorious retreat after a day’s golfing or sightseeing, the private terrace feels positively regal, especially if you’re gazing out at the views with a cocktail in hand. 

View across to the iconic Old Course

Beds are super comfy, with a partnership with Scottish sleep brand, Ava Innes. The sustainable cashmere duvets help with temperature regulation and getting a decent night’s sleep. The suite also has a tranquil raised living area space, and toasty bathroom with Natura Bisse luxury toiletries. All rooms feature Nespresso machines, luxury bathrobes, blackout curtains and Smart TVs with Chromecast.