A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Saint Andrews vs. Lake District National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a quaint, peaceful, and historic university town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Saint Andrews attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saint Andrews travel costs.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty in Lake District National Park as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking. See Lake District National Park travel costs.

Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Andrews. Although Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park are both popular with visitors, Saint Andrews has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Andrews is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Saint Andrews and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Saint Andrews is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. It is also home to The Old Course.

The Old Course
The Old Course

How is Saint Andrews different from Lake District National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake District National Park and Saint Andrews. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saint Andrews. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Lake District National Park. There are some places to grab a drink in Kendal, but not much else in the form of nightlife.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a good destination for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Saint Andrews offers a nice beach destination. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Lake District National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint Andrews. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park More Beautiful?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Lake District National Park as well. The park offers some of the best scenery in the area and this is arguably one of the best national parks in the country.

With stunning beauty, Saint Andrews attracts visitors from all around. From its longstanding history with golf to its stunning landscapes, this is a beautiful and fascinating destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park are both great to visit as a couple.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is terrific for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.


Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Lake District National Park

Saint Andrews is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its walkability.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable university town. The park is large and requires a vehicle to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake District National Park or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Both Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Saint Andrews. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Saint Andrews. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Andrews that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Lake District National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Saint Andrews.


  • How many days in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Lake District National Park 3-7

One day in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Saint Andrews is a small town with plenty to do. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Saint Andrews for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Because Saint Andrews is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Saint Andrews, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Lake District National Park or Saint Andrews?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Saint Andrews Prices
    UK Prices
    Lake District National Park Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Andrews £260
    Lake District National Park £96

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £260, while the average daily cost in Lake District National Park is £96. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Lake District National Park £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Lake District National Park £78
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Saint Andrews


Hotels in Lake District National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Lake District National Park £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $203
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $241
  • Private Transfer from Keswick to Manchester Airport (MAN): $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Prices for flights to both Lake District National Park and Saint Andrews change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Saint Andrews £107
    Lake District National Park £36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Lake District National Park £20

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Coastal Gin Flight Tasting Experience: $36
  • Online Self Guided Tour in Fife Scotland: $14
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $148
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $148
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $148
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $166
  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews - Watch Building Experience with Kartel Scotland: $251
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $22
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Northern Lake District: Self Guided Walking Tour of Keswick: $7.99
  • Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Glenridding Pier: $21
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $90
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $142

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Lake District National Park £4.64


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Saint Andrews would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Andrews than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Andrews Expensive? and Is Lake District National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park in the Summer?

Both Lake District National Park and Saint Andrews during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Andrews is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in July than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Lake District National Park. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during autumn. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Lake District National Park. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. Saint Andrews can be very cold during winter. Saint Andrews is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in January than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Lake District National Park in the Spring?

Both Lake District National Park and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Andrews is around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during spring. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)