St Andrews , the historic Scottish university town where Prince William and Princess Catherine first met, is emerging as a premier destination for celebrity sightings and high-end wellness. Recent travel reporting highlights the town's unique blend of royal heritage, world-class golf, and a buzzy social scene that attracts everyone from pop stars to Hollywood actors.

The Northpoint Cafe sign marking where Kate met Wills

St Andrews carries a distinct, regal atmosphere that is deeply tied to its most famous former residents. As reported by writer Sally Coffey, the town served as the backdrop for the early romance of the Prince and Princess of Wales during their university years in the early 2000s. The couple famously resided in St Salvator’s Hall and were frequently spotted navigating the local streets.

The town's connection to the royal couple is so ingrained in the local culture that even the local businesses lean into the nostalgia. For instance, the Northpoint Cafe on North Street features a window sign explicitly noting it as the place "Where Kate met Wills... (for coffee)." This blend of historical prestige and modern charm makes the town feel like a more tranquil, refined version of Edinburgh .

A 'Bieber special' at Scotland's best fish and chip shop

While the royals provided the town's historical allure,modern pop culture is providing its current buzz. According to the report,pop star Justin Bieber recently descended on Cromars, a local institution that has been named the best fish and chip shop in Scotland on multiple occasions. During his visit in October 2025, Bieber reportedly ordered what has now become known as the "Bieber special":a cooked-from-fresh fish supper paired with a beer from the Edinburgh-based brewery Innis & Gunn.

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This celebrity influence extends to the very ingredients used in the town's culinary scene. The crispy, golden chips served at Cromars are grown locally in Ballingry, reinforcing the town's commitment to high-quality, regional produce. This dedication to excellence is a recurring theme, seen also at The Adamson, a 2 AA Rosette restaurant that sources much of its food from the surrounding Fife area.

The Kingsbarns sauna experience favored by Tom Holland

For those traveling to St Andrews for more than just history and food, the wellness scene is reaching new heights. the Wild Scottish Sauna company has established a flagship location at Kingsbarns, which has become a magnet for high-profile visitors. the report notes that the site has drawn a range of stars, from Spider-Man actor Tom Holland to Ewan McGregor.

The wellness experience at Kingsbarns involves a wood-fired sauna with stunning views of a pristine sandy beach, followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. It offers a level of luxury that complements the town's sophisticated vibe, providing a space for travelers to recharge against a soothing soundscape of the North Sea.

The tension between academic calm and celebrity fame

As St Andrews continues to grow in popularity, it faces an interesting evolution. The town is currently a mix of 15th-century Gothic churches, quiet university quadrangles, and high-end luxury, such as the new Kithmore hotel where rooms start at £250. However, an open question remains regarding the town's ability to maintain its signature calm. As more celebrities like Bieber and Holland frequent the area, one might wonder if the "quiet" charm that distinguishes St Andrews from the bustle of Edinburgh will eventually be eclipsed by its status as a celebrity hotspot.