It was Sunday 9 November, which, as any calendar will confirm, is not October. And yet, there I was, in the dimly lit depths of The One Under Bar, attending what was proudly billed as an Oktoberfest Brunch . Since, naturally, when you think of German cultural tradition, you think of damp Scottish weather, golfers in lederhosen, and free Tennents lager at 11am. The event itself was an intimate affair — around fifty people squeezed into the low-ceilinged bar, tickets priced at £52, which, given...

A lyrical testimony of St Andrews’ long-esteemed tradition In my humble opinion, the tradition of Raisin in St Andrews is important and honourable. It is a trial which each of us must undertake. On any other day of the year, the actions carried out are ones to be ashamed of, but for one brilliantly debaucherous day a year, they are necessary and fundamental to the St Andrews experience.  ‘Twas the morning of 19 October. I was snug in my bed, dead to the world, and dreaming about this week’s...

Signpost in the cellar Aikman’s, in many ways, often feels utterly decrepit, like it's falling apart at the seams. When I lowered myself into its dingy underbelly, I was transported back into the ‘80s with its charming lighting, lumpy and often broken furniture, foul smell, and walls and ceilings adorned with memorabilia from a St Andrews our parents could have attended. Your phone doesn’t work down there, providing a catalyst for human connection that is all too rare today.  From 8-10pm on 9...