The Old Course at St Andrews: The Birthplace of Modern Golf

Experience the legendary Old Course at St Andrews, the historic birthplace of golf and a public course steeped in centuries of sporting heritage.

4.8

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
United Kingdom
Dundee
Old Course

The Old Course at St Andrews, located on W Sands Rd in St Andrews, Scotland, is the oldest and most iconic golf course in the world. Dating back to the 15th century, it is widely regarded as the 'home of golf' and the birthplace of the modern 18-hole round. The course is public and open to all, featuring legendary holes, historic landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge, and a rich legacy that has shaped golf globally.

A brief summary to Old Course

W Sands Rd, St Andrews, St Andrews, KY16 9XL, GB
+441334466666
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book tee times well in advance, as the Old Course is highly sought after, with applications opening annually around August.
Visit on a Sunday to walk the course safely when it is closed to golfers, offering a unique perspective on this historic site.
Explore the nearby R&A World Golf Museum to deepen your understanding of golf’s history and the Old Course’s role.
Try the "Himalayas" putting course adjacent to the Old Course for a fun and challenging experience suitable for all ages.

Getting There

Train and Bus

Travel by train to Leuchars Station, approximately 6 km from St Andrews, with frequent services from Edinburgh and Dundee (travel time 50-70 minutes). From Leuchars, take a local bus to St Andrews town center (15-20 minutes). Bus services run regularly but may be limited on weekends. Total cost around £10-15.
Car

Driving to St Andrews is straightforward via the A91 and A915 roads. Parking is available in town but limited near the Old Course, with paid options costing £2-5 per hour. Expect 1.5-2 hours from Edinburgh. Note that the Old Course area has pedestrian zones and busy traffic during peak seasons.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Leuchars Station or nearby towns, with a journey to St Andrews taking about 15 minutes. Fares typically range from £15-25 depending on time and demand. Useful for travelers with luggage or limited time.
Walking

Once in St Andrews, the Old Course is easily accessible on foot from the town center via well-marked paths. Walking terrain is mostly flat but be cautious of golfers and flying balls, especially on weekdays. Walking time from town center is about 10-15 minutes.

Old Course location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Old Course

Origins and Historical Significance

The Old Course at St Andrews traces its origins to the early 15th century, making it the oldest golf course in the world. The first written record of golf played here dates to 1552, although the game was likely played earlier on the coastal links. Initially known simply as the "golfing grounds," the course evolved over centuries, surviving bans and challenges such as the rabbit farming dispute in the late 18th century. The course was saved for golf in 1821 by James Cheape of Strathtyrum, who purchased the land and ensured its future as a golfing venue.

Development of the 18-Hole Standard

Originally consisting of 22 holes, the Old Course was pivotal in establishing the now-standard 18-hole round. In 1764, the St Andrews Golfers’ Society combined certain holes to reduce the total to 18, setting a precedent followed worldwide. The course's layout continued to evolve, with Old Tom Morris contributing significantly in the 19th century by separating greens and widening fairways. The Old Course’s distinctive double greens and strategic bunkers have remained largely unchanged since the early 1900s.

Championship Legacy and Global Influence

The Old Course has hosted The Open Championship since 1873, making it the venue with the most Opens played. It has witnessed historic moments and legendary champions, including Young Tom Morris and Bobby Jones. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, founded in 1754, governs the rules of golf globally (except the USA and Mexico) and is located adjacent to the course. The Old Course remains a benchmark for golf course design and a pilgrimage site for golfers worldwide.

Course Features and Public Access

Spanning 6,609 yards for men and 6,032 yards for women, the Old Course is a links-style course characterized by its natural terrain, large double greens, and famous hazards such as the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker. Despite its prestige, the course is public and open to all players, with rounds starting at around £100. Non-golfers can explore the course on foot, especially on Sundays when it is closed to play. The surrounding St Andrews Links complex includes six other courses, a golf academy, and multiple clubhouses.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Beyond golf, St Andrews offers a charming historic town atmosphere with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and award-winning restaurants. The Old Course Hotel nearby provides luxury accommodation and spa facilities, placing visitors in the heart of golfing history. The nearby "Himalayas" putting course offers a playful challenge for all ages. The Old Course’s blend of rich heritage, iconic landmarks, and accessibility makes it a unique destination for both golfers and visitors interested in the sport’s origins.

Preservation and Management

Managed by the St Andrews Links Trust since 1974, the Old Course is maintained as a public asset, preserving its historic character while accommodating modern golf demands. The Trust oversees the entire St Andrews Links complex, ensuring sustainable use and access. This stewardship balances tradition with innovation, keeping the Old Course relevant and revered in the 21st century.