The Keys Bar
Best Bar in Scotland 2014/2015.
Best Whisky bar in Scotland 2017.
Awarded Highly Commended in the Scottish Hospitality awards 2023 for Best Bar.
Finalist in The courier food and drinks awards.
Over 300 Malt whiskies & 150 Gins.
Selection of Scottish Beers & Spirits.
Independently family-run.
BT sport & Sky sports for all your live sporting events
Founded in 1858, The Keys Bar is a refreshingly unique Bar in St Andrews. Come on by, grab a delicious Toastie and get the quality time with your friends that you deserve. We are an independent family run bar, we host Darts & Domino nights and welcome both local community and visitors from all corners of the world
Our History
Much More Than Your Regular Bar
The Keys Bar has been an established Bar Since 1858 that aims to build community by providing drinks that bring people together and an atmosphere that is a hub for local entertainment. The Keys Bar was originally called Stewarts Hotel in the mid 18th century and re-named The Cross Keys in 1858.
In Recent years The pub was owned and run by Carol and Stuart Gordon before being taken over by their daughter Claire who rebranded the bar as we know it now The Keys Bar . The Bar is now under new family ownership with the essence of keeping it's unique character as a family run business. Our approach to delivering only the finest service to our customers starts and ends with our constant desire to exceed expectations. Come join us to see what we’re all about.
Latest news
Stay in the Know
Finalist in the Courier food and drinks awards 2024
27th March 2024
we were one of 3 finalist in the Courier food and drinks awards 2024 held at the Old Course hotel in St Andrews on the 27th of March. unfortunately we were only a runner up but its a credit to all our hard work and dedication and to all our loyal customers.
Courier food and drinks awards 2024
March 27th 2024
we were one of 3 finalist in the Courier food and drinks awards 2024 held at the Old Course hotel in St Andrews on the 27th of March. unfortunately we were only a runner up but its a credit to all our hard work and dedication and to all our loyal customers.
Delivery day
6th April 2024
Delivery day
Here’s just a few out of 4 boxes that came in this morning
Let’s say Smokehead tequila cask terminado it’s a new delicious treat
Pop in to try
Scottish Hospitality awards 2024
finalist for best bar in scotland
As a top notch Bar, we are often mentioned in incredible articles and features in the media. Take your time and explore the latest stories about The Keys Bar, and check back regularly to keep up with the latest news.
We are delighted to announce that again this year we are one of the finalist in the final for Best bar in Scotland 2024 we were runners up for the best bar in Scotland 2023 and were awarded with a Highly commended certification from the judges. this is all thanks to you our loyal customers past and present and to our amazing Knowledgeable staff.
Dog Friendly
dogs always welcome
All well behaved dogs are welcome here at The Keys Bar we have dog bowls available on request with cold fresh water. Our friendly staff can also offer a wee dog biscuit treat for your loveable family pets.
What We’ve Got Planned
Something For Everyone
Claire Nicoll guide to whisky
Interested in malt whisky, then this guide is a must read. Written by Our very own Claire Nicoll
From a young age I was always intrigued by the distinct aromas of Scotland’s most famous drink. Having grown up as the daughter of a Scottish publican, it was only natural that I would become familiar with the various names of the malts and their distilleries that adorned the walls of my parents bar the Cross Keys. When I was old enough (honestly!) I began to explore the variety of flavours that were produced from these magical looking bottles with their wonderful Celtic names. As I have grown older and now run my family’s bar, I have had the fortune to visit many of our countries distilleries and fully appreciate the subtle changes in flavour that come from the barrel, region, water, malting or other parts the distillation process can bring about. The following are my notes and the Key’s to Scotland’s malts. Enjoy.
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How Did We Do?
Team
Where the Passion Begins
Marta Droszkowska Raynor
Bar Manager
Marta has been with the Keys Bar since 2007 When she came here to St Andrews from her home city Bydgoszcz in Poland.
Marta's passion and dedication is making everone's visit one to remember.
Marta has a big knowledge of all the drinks available in the Keys bar but whisky and vodka are her favourite.
Laura McDermott
Bar Tender
Laura started at The keys bar back in 2010 whilst studying at St Andrews University. After graduating Laura has continued to work with us Laura has a wealth of knowledge on the Whisky and gins we have in stock.
Kirsty Nicoll
Bar Tender
Kirsty is one of our experienced Bar Tenders with Years of experience and knowledge of the hospitality trade. When not working Kirsty can be found on the side lines as a coach, first aider, fundraiser and supporter to the local youth football teams.
Bea Skulina
Bar Tender
Bea is a relatively new comer to the Keys bar team but has gained experience and knowledge in the bar trade and is a valued member of the team
Skye Reid
Bar Tender
Skye is one of our experienced Bar tenders with experience in the hospitality industry. When not working behind the bar Skye enjoys doing her hairdressing and make up for her friends and family.
Kelly Aiton
Bar Tender
Kelly is another one of our experienced Bar Tenders
Sasha Gordon
Part Time Bar Tender
Sacha is another one off our part time Bar tenders. Sacha is in her final year at university and will be graduating this year from Glasgow University.
Karol Droszkowski Raynor
Part time Bar Tender
Karol Started with us when he turned 18 years old and is the son of our Manager Marta. Karol is currently studying at Napier University in Edinburgh and helps out when he's home on leave or anytime he is back in St Andrews.
Scott Raynor
Cellar man/general organiser
Married to our Manager Marta. Scott is our behind the scenes cellar man/general organiser and problem solver. Scott was a firefighter for almost 30 years.
Specialty Beverages
Whisky's, Gins, Beer, Lagers & Spirits
Our drink list features a selection inspired by everyday freshness meeting deliciousness. Our liquid concoctions have been inspired by classic cocktails, showcasing seasonal ingredients and trendy flavors. There's always something for everyone's taste and desire. Our amazing bartenders will be happy to assist you to make that choice.
Malt Whisky's
Over 300 Malt whisky's from all over the world.
We have a Malt Whisky to suit your taste and preference from peaty, smoky to sweet. Ask one of the experienced Bar staff to talk you through our range and flavours and we will find you a perfect whisky.
Gins
Over 150 Gins for your selection
Let the expert mixologists find the right balance for you with our special gins and mixers. Whether you’re here for a quick drink or a Great day out, our bar staff will soon stir your taste buds in the right direction.
We hope you enjoy our drinks—can’t wait to see you again!