Background

The R&A World Golf Museum, St Andrews

Explore over 400 years of golf history at The R&A World Golf Museum, with stunning views of St Andrews’ iconic Old Course.

4.3

The R&A World Golf Museum in St Andrews offers an immersive journey through over 400 years of golf history, featuring extensive collections of historic clubs, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits. Located on Bruce Embankment, the museum also includes a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the iconic Old Course, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.

A brief summary to The R&A World Golf Museum

  • First Floor, Bruce Embankment, St Andrews, KY16 9AB, GB
  • +441334460046
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save money and gain access for two consecutive days.
  • Visit The Niblick rooftop restaurant for seasonal local dishes paired with panoramic views of the Old Course.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum’s extensive galleries and interactive exhibits.
  • Check the museum’s event schedule for lectures and special exhibitions during your visit.
  • Use the nearby parking facilities, free during winter months, to make your visit more convenient.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the Stagecoach bus services 99 or X59 from central St Andrews to the Bruce Embankment stop near the museum. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£3.

  • Car

    Driving to the museum is convenient with on-site parking available. Parking is free from November to March; outside these months, pay-and-display applies with charges around £1-£2 per hour. Allow 5-10 minutes from St Andrews town center.

  • Walking

    From St Andrews town center, the museum is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along mostly flat, paved paths. This route is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

The R&A World Golf Museum location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of The R&A World Golf Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The R&A World Golf Museum

A Celebration of Golf Heritage Rooted in St Andrews

The R&A World Golf Museum stands proudly in St Andrews, widely recognized as the spiritual home of golf. The museum chronicles the evolution of the sport over four centuries, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts that reflect golf's rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can explore more than 100 historic golf clubs, trophies, balls, and other memorabilia, some dating back over 400 years. The museum’s galleries are designed to bring the stories of golf’s origins, its legendary players, and the development of equipment vividly to life.

Engaging Exhibits and Interactive Experiences

Spread across multiple galleries, the museum offers a blend of traditional displays and modern interactive technology. Touchscreen exhibits provide detailed insights into the game's history, while a mini putting green invites visitors to try putters and balls from different eras, including a challenging 1840 ball. The museum’s collection extends beyond equipment to include artwork, films, periodicals, and fashion, offering a comprehensive perspective on golf’s cultural impact worldwide.

The Museum’s Architectural and Scenic Setting

Situated on the first floor of Bruce Embankment, the museum benefits from its proximity to the Royal & Ancient Clubhouse and the legendary Old Course. The rooftop restaurant and bar, The Niblick, offers spectacular panoramic views over St Andrews Bay and the first hole of the Old Course, enhancing the visitor experience with seasonal, locally sourced menus and a relaxing atmosphere. This setting perfectly melds the heritage of golf with the natural beauty of the coastal town.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

The R&A World Golf Museum is open year-round with seasonal hours, generally from 10 am to 4 pm during the colder months and extended hours in summer. Admission fees apply, with adults typically paying around £8.50 and free entry for children under 15. The ticket grants access for two consecutive days, allowing visitors ample time to explore. Amenities include a well-stocked gift shop, restrooms, and a café with stunning views. The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers parking nearby, with free parking in winter months.

Events and Educational Programs

Beyond static displays, the museum hosts regular events such as lectures and special exhibitions that delve deeper into golf’s history and culture. These programs enrich the visitor experience and provide opportunities to engage with golf’s heritage on a more personal level. The museum’s commitment to education and preservation makes it a dynamic cultural institution within the golfing world.

A Gateway to St Andrews’ Iconic Golfing Legacy

Stepping outside the museum places visitors just yards from the first tee of the Old Course, linking the museum experience directly to the living tradition of golf. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a curious traveler, The R&A World Golf Museum offers a unique window into the sport’s past, present, and future, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most famous golf destinations.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near The R&A World Golf Museum

Popular Hotels near The R&A World Golf Museum

Select Currency