A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Saint Andrews vs. Nottingham for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Nottingham, 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 peaceful, historic, and charming university town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a dynamic, livable, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Saint Andrews and Nottingham: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham. Although Saint Andrews and Nottingham are popular destinations, Nottingham has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Saint Andrews attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is famous for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square.

How is Saint Andrews different from Nottingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nottingham 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 Nottingham?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Saint Andrews and Nottingham.

Saint Andrews offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nottingham. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Saint Andrews or Nottingham? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Andrews makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Both Saint Andrews and Nottingham are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Nottingham. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Music?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Nottingham is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Saint Andrews is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Nottingham active and fun. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Saint Andrews is not a live music destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its beaches. However, Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. 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.

Nottingham is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews is a university town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

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.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Both Saint Andrews and Nottingham are high quality shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.


Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews and Nottingham are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Nottingham is a family-friendly university town. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Saint Andrews frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Saint Andrews is very popular for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Saint Andrews is a very popular university town 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Nottingham is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nottingham can get you around easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Nottingham a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Nottingham

Nottingham is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Andrews Worth Visiting? and Is Nottingham Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nottingham or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Andrews or Nottingham to fill your time. In our opinion, Saint Andrews has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Andrews than Nottingham. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint Andrews than Nottingham. 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Nottingham 1-2

One day in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Saint Andrews might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Andrews, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the livable destination of Nottingham. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this university town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Saint Andrews, a popular university town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the cultural destination of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Saint Andrews is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Nottingham. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, and The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Nottingham or Saint Andrews?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Nottingham is £117. 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 Nottingham in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Nottingham £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Nottingham £128
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Nottingham

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Nottingham? 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 Nottingham


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Nottingham £21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Prices for flights to both Nottingham 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 £62
    Nottingham £36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Nottingham £28

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

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

  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour: $82
  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Nottingham £7.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Nottingham, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Nottingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nottingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nottingham 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 Nottingham.

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 Nottingham Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Nottingham, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Nottingham. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Andrews this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 14°C (58°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham during summer. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 196 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Nottingham. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nottingham in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Saint Andrews is cooler than Nottingham in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Nottingham fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 112 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets more rain in October than Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham in the Winter?

Both Nottingham and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nottingham can be very cold during winter. Saint Andrews can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Andrews is cooler than Nottingham. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Andrews in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Nottingham averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham during winter. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Nottingham receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Andrews usually receives more rain than Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Nottingham in the Spring?

Both Nottingham and Saint Andrews during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the activities around the city.

In April, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Nottingham. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 7°C (45°F), and Nottingham fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Saint Andrews often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nottingham receives 151 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in April than Nottingham. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Nottingham receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Nottingham and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Nottingham
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)