Why go there? St Andrews has so much to offer any kind of visitor that it's often hard to work out whether it's the golf courses, the beaches, the bracing sea air or the historic buildings that attract so many. It's a bustling pl
ace at almost any time of year, so it's good to have a retreat at the edge of town where calm can be restored.
Rufflets is one such location and a host of golf stars, Jack Nicklaus among them, have often made it their home during the frenzy of the Open. The house is a turreted mansion set in ten acres of grounds and is a delightful oasis in which to while away long summer evenings.
We were made welcome by smiling staff from the moment we arrived to the moment we left.
How do I get there? By car from the town centre, take the B939 towards Strathkinness – Rufflets is set in the fields beyond the town boundary. To underline its eco credentials, Rufflets is offering a bottle of wine and a room upgrade for anyone who arrives by public transport. Leuchars train station is just a few miles outside town, with a frequent bus service into St Andrews.
What's the food like? Dinner is served in an elegant dining-room adorned with high-quality work by local artists. The chairs were a bit tatty for an establishment that makes great play of its five-star VisitScotland status but the food and the service make up for it. The breast of Gressingham duck was cooked to perfection and the chocolate tart to finish was as wicked as you would want it to be, all supported by a far-reaching wine list.
Bed test We had a suite overlooking the gardens, and although the decor was a tad old-fashioned for my liking, there was a giant, comfortable bed that made a good night's sleep inevitable. The disaster was no hot water, with an embarrassed management trying to deal with a temperamental boiler. There was a silver lining: we were given the keys to shower in the room next door and its more contemporary look and feel made us wish we had been put there instead.
Out and about Leaving the famous golf courses aside – guests pining for the game can take advantage of the hotel's putting green and practice net – St Andrews has a quaint harbour with the magnificent ruins of its ancient cathedral above. About five miles south is the unheralded gem of Cambo Gardens, renowned for its snowdrop displays but a joy all year round.
Little extras Home-made shortbread in the rooms and a hot water bottle in the bed at night.
The bottom line An overnight stay starts from £99 per person, based on two sharing. This includes a three-course gourmet dinner and full Scottish breakfast.
