We had booked this hotel via the Internet for 3 days while we golfed at the Old Course in May, 2006. The Russell is very conveniently located just a short walk (5 minutes) along the sea walk to the course. While the room was small, it was very clean and comfortable. We were in room 16 on the third floor because we booked late and others seemed a bit larger and had a sea view. The staff were friendly and helpful. The pub / residents lounge was very nice as it was quiet in the afternoon for a restful pot of tea and hopping at night with both locals and tourists (mostly golfers). Many of the diners in the pub and in the dining room came from different hotels to eat as the food was extremely good. Our continental breakfast that was delivered to our door when we had an early tee-time was much more substantial than we expected (cereal, milk, fresh fruit, croissants, muffins, juice), and the breakfast served from 8 o'clock was very nice, with some of the best scrambled eggs I have had in some time.

My golf partner and I spent three nights at the Russell last summer during an eight day trip. We arrived about 8:30 AM on our check in day.
Though not officially open the staff was kind enough to let us check in early. The room was small but clean and comfortable. It served our needs very well. Our breakfast table was reserved every morning and the food was quite satisfying. The service was above average and everyone very friendly. The hotel pub was excellent. Gordon, the owner, was often behind the bar and offered good conversation as did most of the patrons. The pub dinners also provided a less expensive alternative to the full priced restaurants. Parking is in short supply on the street.
The parking shortage is not unique to the Russell. Once the car is parked leave it and walk. Everything in St. Andrews is an easy walk from the hotel. Inexpensive after dinner entertainment can be had by walking down the street to watch golfers play the eighteenth hole at the Old Course. If the opportunity to visit St. Andrews presents itself again, I would book a room at the Russell Hotel without hesitation.