Golf Courses in St Andrews
Discover World-Class Golf in St Andrews, Scotland
Known worldwide as the “Home of Golf,” St Andrews offers an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. With a rich history dating back over six centuries, St Andrews boasts some of the most famous and prestigious golf courses in the world. Whether you are a seasoned player or simply passionate about the sport, the variety and quality of courses in this historic town are second to none.
The Old Course – A Legendary Experience
No mention of St Andrews is complete without the iconic Old Course. Regarded as the oldest and most famous golf course on the planet, the Old Course has hosted countless Open Championships and remains a pilgrimage site for golfers globally.
Highlights include:
- The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker – two of the most recognised landmarks in golf.
- The 18th Hole – standing on the same hallowed turf as the greats of the game.
- Public Access – Unlike many prestigious courses, the Old Course is open to the public, with a ballot system offering players the chance to walk in the footsteps of legends.
The Castle Course – Spectacular Clifftop Golf
Opened in 2008, The Castle Course is the newest addition to the St Andrews Links family and delivers a truly unforgettable golfing experience. Perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking St Andrews Bay, The Castle Course combines modern design with spectacular Scottish coastal scenery.
- Designed by David McLay Kidd, renowned for creating exciting, natural layouts.
- Challenging Play: Undulating fairways, deep bunkering, and large, fast greens demand careful strategy and precise shot-making.
- Breathtaking Views: From nearly every hole, enjoy sweeping vistas across the North Sea and the historic town skyline.
- Clubhouse: Relax after your round at the stylish Castle Course Clubhouse, offering panoramic views and excellent dining.
The Castle Course provides a thrilling contrast to the traditional links of St Andrews, making it an essential part of any golfing itinerary.
The Duke’s Course – A Grand Inland Challenge
While St Andrews is famed for its links, The Duke’s Course offers a world-class inland alternative with a unique character all of its own.
- Designed by Peter Thomson – the five-time Open Champion crafted a layout inspired by traditional heathland courses.
- Beautiful Setting: Set on a hillside overlooking the town, The Duke’s provides panoramic views across St Andrews and out to the sea.
- Championship Layout: Measuring over 7,500 yards from the championship tees, it offers a stern but fair test for golfers of all abilities.
- Immaculate Condition: Wide fairways, well-placed bunkers, and fast greens combine to create a premium golfing experience.
Owned by the prestigious Old Course Hotel, The Duke’s complements the seaside links perfectly, offering lush turf, a peaceful setting, and luxury service. It is the ideal choice for golfers seeking a different yet equally rewarding challenge during their St Andrews stay.
Fairmont St Andrews – Luxury Golfing Retreat
For those seeking a blend of luxury and championship-level golf, Fairmont St Andrews is the perfect destination. Located just a short distance from the town, the resort features two championship courses, offering golfers a chance to experience both stunning coastal views and impeccable course conditions.
The Torrance Course
The Torrance Course is named after the legendary golfer Sam Torrance and is one of the standout courses at Fairmont St Andrews.
- Designed by Sam Torrance: A challenging and dynamic course, built to host European Tour events.
- Immaculate Layout: The course features strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and wide fairways, combined with fast greens.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy sweeping views across the coastline, with several holes overlooking the stunning cliffs of St Andrews Bay.
- Championship Standard: Known for its professional-level challenge, the Torrance Course provides a thrilling test for golfers of all levels.
The Kittocks Course
The Kittocks Course at Fairmont St Andrews is another impressive layout offering a distinct challenge:
- Designed by Dr. Martin Hawtree, this course features a more contemporary design and a unique style of play.
- Breathtaking Coastal Views: Enjoy views across the North Sea, making it one of the most scenic golfing experiences in St Andrews.
- Strategic Play: The Kittocks Course requires accurate shot-making, with challenging elevation changes and tight fairways.
- Exclusive Feel: While not as widely known as the Old Course or Castle Course, The Kittocks Course offers a luxurious and quieter golfing experience with world-class facilities.
Golf for Everybody
While golf is a prestigious activity, it should be accessible to everyone. One of the most remarkable aspects of St Andrews golf is its accessibility. Unlike many famous golfing destinations, St Andrews maintains a strong community focus, offering opportunities for locals and visitors alike to play its legendary courses. There are also excellent practice facilities, including the St Andrews Links Golf Academy, ideal for those looking to improve their game.
St Andrews Links – More Than Just One Course
The St Andrews Links Trust manages a total of seven public golf courses, offering a diverse range of challenges for players of all abilities:
- The New Course – Opened in 1895, this is a classic links course with tight fairways and demanding greens.
- The Jubilee Course – Considered the most challenging of the Links courses, perfect for more experienced golfers.
- The Eden Course – Designed for a slightly more forgiving round but still maintaining traditional links character.
- The Castle Course – The newest addition, offering stunning clifftop views and a modern golfing test.
- The Strathtyrum Course – Ideal for beginners and those seeking a more relaxed game.
- The Balgove Course – A nine-hole course designed especially for families and young players.
Planning Your Golf Trip to St Andrews
- Booking: Tee times for the Old Course are highly sought-after. Make sure to enter the Old Course Ballot or book through authorised packages well in advance.
- Best Time to Visit: The golf season typically runs from April to October, with summer offering the best weather.
- Stay and Play: Choose from a wide range of accommodation, from luxurious five-star hotels to charming guesthouses, all within easy reach of the courses.
Explore Beyond the Fairways
While golf is the main attraction, St Andrews offers much more. Discover the historic university, medieval ruins, museums, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant town centre full of shops, cafes, and traditional pubs – perfect for unwinding after a day on the greens.
Why St Andrews is a Must-Visit for Golfers
With its unique blend of history, tradition, and world-class facilities, St Andrews is a dream destination for every golfer. Whether you aspire to play the legendary Old Course or simply soak in the atmosphere of golf’s spiritual home, a visit to St Andrews promises memories to last a lifetime.
Plan your golf trip to St Andrews today and experience the magic for yourself.