St. Andrews Golf Course

The basics

The best known course is the aptly named Old Course, the oldest and arguably most famous golf course in the world, which has hosted 30 Open Championships and is home to legendary features including the Swilcan Bridge and the Hell Bunker. It’s possible to play a round if you book in advance, but most visitors opt for a guided walking tour, following in the footsteps of golfing legends such as Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.

There’s also the equally prestigious New Course, which dates back to 1895; the notoriously challenging Jubilee course; the Eden, and the beginner-friendly 9-hole Balgove. Finally, the most recent additions include the Strathtyrum and the Castle Course, which opened in 2008.

Things to know when you get there

• Old Course tee times are allocated for the coming year lottery style during a 2-to-3-week window in August/September, as well as via the Daily Ballot, a lottery system that’s drawn 48 hours in advance of play.
• If you manage to secure an Old Course tee time you’ll be required to pay for a second round at another Links course.
• There are several restaurants around the links, including the Tom Morris Bar & Grill in the Links Clubhouse.
• Golf lessons are available at the St. Andrews Links Golf Academy.
• Memorabilia and golfing apparel, as well as Scotland-made knitwear, are available at The Old Course Shop.

How to get there

St. Andrews is on Scotland’s northeast coast, around a 90-minute drive from Edinburgh. You can take the train from Edinburgh to Leuchars and from there catch a bus or taxi to St. Andrews. A day tour from Edinburgh is also a great way to combine a visit to St. Andrews with the surrounding area, such as the string of charming fishing villages along the East Neuk.

When to get there

If you’re planning to play, you’ll need to schedule your visit according to when you can secure tee times; also note that you need to be at the tee at least 20 minutes before your tee time. If you just want to see the courses, however, the summer is the most pleasant time to visit St. Andrews. Since it’s peak season, finding accommodation can be tricky—especially during St. Andrews University graduation week in late June—which makes April and September good alternative options.

The R&A World Golf Museum

Keen and amateur golfers alike should pay a visit to the R&A World Golf Museum, just steps from the first tee at the Old Course. Visitors can discover 500 years of golfing history through immersive exhibits and artifacts that include equipment, memorabilia, and documentation explaining the history of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the rules and terminology of the game. The museum’s Niblick Brasserie, which sources its produce locally, offers views of the West Sands beach.

What are the green fees for St. Andrews Golf Course?

The green fees for playing at St. Andrews Golf Course vary depending on the season. The high season is usually mid-April through mid-October, and the price for the Old Course can be around £320. During the low season (November through March), prices are around £150. Shoulder season is typically £210–£225.

How can I book a tee time at St. Andrews Golf Course?

There are multiple ways to book a tee time; golf packages with a guaranteed tee time are available, or you can enter a special ballot to play at the Old Course, which is drawn two days before you play. You can also use the St. Andrews Links online booking form.

Do I need a handicap certificate to play at St. Andrews?

Yes, you need a handicap certificate to play at the Old Course at St. Andrews. This certificate must be presented at the Old Course Starter on your play day. The maximum handicap accepted is 36 for both men and women. Other courses don’t require a handicap certificate.

Is the Old Course at St. Andrews open to the public?

Yes, the Old Course at St. Andrews is open to the public throughout the year, except on tournament days, Sundays, and when special events are running. The Old Course is run by the St. Andrews Links Trust, which looks after seven courses in St. Andrews.

Can I rent golf clubs at St. Andrews Golf Course?

Yes, you can rent clubs at St. Andrews Golf Courses. These are available at the clubhouses of the different Links Trust courses. However, making requests in advance to guarantee club hire is recommended, as stock may be limited on the day. There’s no need to book trolleys in advance.

How can I maximize my golfing experience at St. Andrews?

To maximize your golfing experience at St. Andrews, it’s advisable to warm up on another links course before you play on the Old Course. Also, book your equipment rental in advance, and consider booking a caddie who can advise on technical aspects, locate shots, replace divots, and clean your equipment.