A FIVE-star boutique hotel is coming soon to St Andrews. The luxury hotel will be named Seaton House when it opens its doors at the “Home of Golf” in Autumn 2024.
Valor Hospitality Partners, a global, full-service hotel management company in partnership with US based Links Collection, will operate the new hotel which overlooks the Royal & Ancient clubhouse and first tee on golf’s most hallowed ground, the Old Course at St Andrews.
Seaton House, once known as the Scores Hotel, is poised to become a hallmark of Scottish hospitality. Rooted in the legacy of the Old Course, this Victorian townhouse is steeped in history, where tradition resonates in every detail of its architecture and decor.
The hotel’s renaming to Seaton House is a meaningful tribute to its past, dating back to 1864. The revival of the building’s original name, Seaton House, encapsulates a commitment to preserving a cherished piece of the town’s history, bringing its storied legacy full circle.
As golfers from all over the world make their pilgrimage to St Andrews, Seaton House sits quietly in the background, looking out over what is perhaps the most iconic view in golf.
Seaton House will create approximately 70 jobs for the town, including the appointment of a General Manager to lead the team. There are also plans to support the local economy by partnering with the finest producers in the area.
With 40 luxury bedrooms and three stunning suites, guests will be able to choose a sea or garden view, with five rooms benefiting from their own private terrace.
Seaton House not only boasts commanding views of the Old Course but also offers breathtaking panoramas of Fife’s rugged coastline. Guests can enjoy scenic vistas of St Andrews Bay and West Sands Beach, which gained fame from the iconic 1981 movie ‘Chariots of Fire’.
Just a five-minute walk from the hotel is the town’s many historic attractions, including St Andrews Castle, St Andrews Cathedral ruin, and the 600 year-old University of St Andrews.
Within Seaton House, meticulous attention to detail will ensure a residential ambiance, infused with warm Scottish hospitality and traditional charm. The culinary experience will be headlined by renowned Scottish Chef Roy Brett, of Ondine Oyster & Grill, Edinburgh.
Marking the first new venture since the establishment of the iconic Ondine in 2009, Ondine St Andrews will be a key feature, alongside an all-day restaurant, bar, and lounge. The menu will celebrate the provenance of the finest local produce, complemented by a selection of expertly curated wines, crafted cocktails, and whiskies.
Euan McGlashan, Global Co-founder & Chief Executive Officer, Valor Hospitality Partners, said:
“Having lived away from Scotland for over 30 years, it is a thrill to be back working on such an incredible project in the beautiful St Andrews. Our wonderful owners have been intimately involved in all the design details, ensuring their love of hospitality and golf, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, is projected in a way that is residential in feel with a very distinct sense of place and all the modern conveniences our guests will expect.
“The town of St Andrews have been supportive all along and we are eager to make the local residents very proud of Seaton House. The incredible food and beverage offerings are aimed at guests and locals alike, and we hope that Ondine becomes a fan favourite in the town.”
Jonathan Harper, Managing Partner of the Links Collection, said:
“While Seaton House is the closest hotel to the first tee of the world-famous Old Course, it is also the perfect home base with many Championship courses nearby. In addition to the six St Andrews Links courses, guests can also enjoy Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, Dumbarnie, and many others, all within a 25-miles of Seaton House. Additionally, our guests can access nearby gems of East Lothian like Muirfield, North Berwick, and Gullane.
“Guests looking beyond golf can enjoy wonderful weekend getaways or week-long breaks, taking in all the breathtaking scenery, history, and warmth that the town offers. With all the comforts of home, yet highly personalised service, Seaton House will be a sanctuary for those looking to unwind and relax away from the stresses of everyday life.
“We are humbled and honoured to have the opportunity to be a small part of the St Andrews community and to breathe new life into this historic property. We are eagerly awaiting the chance to host our friends and guests at Seaton House, as there are few things in life more enjoyable than watching people experience the magic of St Andrews.”
To find out more about the General Manager role please contact ben.gabbitas@valoreurope.com. For more information on Valor Hospitality Partners, their leadership team and global properties, visit valorhospitality.com.
