St Andrews New Course
The world's oldest 'new' course, where Old Tom Morris's 1895 masterpiece challenges with narrow fairways, demanding par-3s, and true links character.
Opened in 1895 and designed by Old Tom Morris, St Andrews New Course is the oldest 'new' course in the world. This classic links layout runs parallel to the legendary Old Course before turning toward the Eden Estuary. Known for its challenging par-3s, demanding par-4s, and narrow fairways lined with gorse, the New Course offers a rigorous yet fair test of Scottish golf. With excellent turf quality and true-running greens, it serves as an ideal introduction to St Andrews links golf and a worthy complement to the world-famous Old Course.
A brief summary to New Course
- 2 West Sands, St Andrews, KY16 9XL, GB
- +441334466666
- Visit website
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Play the New Course as your first round at St Andrews if possible. It serves as an excellent introduction to Scottish links golf and is less eccentric than the Old Course, making it ideal preparation for other St Andrews courses.
- The 9th hole is the signature—a 225-yard par-3 along the water's edge with out of bounds left and gorse right. Respect this hole; it is tougher than any par-3 on the Old Course, especially in wind.
- Expect narrow fairways and reward accuracy off the tee. Missing by a small margin is forgiving, but wayward drives find gorse or parallel holes. Keep the ball in play.
- Wind is your constant companion on this exposed links. The homeward nine is particularly demanding; bring extra balls and patience for the back nine.
- Book tee times well in advance during peak season (May–September). Winter rates are significantly lower, and the course is less crowded, though conditions can be challenging.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car from St Andrews Town Centre
St Andrews New Course is located at 2 West Sands, approximately 0.5 km north of the town centre. From the town centre, drive north on North Street toward the seafront, then follow signs to West Sands. Parking is available at the St Andrews Links Trust car park adjacent to the course. Journey time is approximately 5–10 minutes. Parking is free for course players.
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Walking from St Andrews Town Centre
The course is a pleasant 10–15 minute walk from the town centre along flat, paved paths. From the town centre, head north toward the seafront via North Street, then follow the coastal path signs to West Sands. The route is well-signposted and accessible year-round. No special footwear is required for the approach.
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Bus from Edinburgh or Glasgow
Regular coach services operate from Edinburgh (approximately 1.5 hours) and Glasgow (approximately 2.5 hours) to St Andrews bus station in the town centre. From the bus station, the course is a 10–15 minute walk or a short taxi ride (approximately £5–8). Stagecoach and other operators provide frequent daily services.
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Taxi or Ride-Share from St Andrews Station
St Andrews railway station is approximately 1 km from the course. A taxi from the station costs approximately £5–10 and takes 5 minutes. Ride-share services are available but less frequent in St Andrews than in larger cities. Walking from the station takes approximately 15 minutes via North Street.
New Course location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about New Course
A Historic Links Born from Overcrowding
When golf's popularity exploded in the late 19th century, St Andrews Links faced a crisis: overcrowding on the Old Course made play increasingly difficult. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club sought to purchase additional land to build a second course, but the initial offer was rejected. Following the death of landowner Alexander Cheape in 1893, the opportunity finally arose. The Club purchased the links for £5,000, and the Town Council granted them the right to construct a new course. Old Tom Morris, the legendary course designer and four-time Open Champion, was commissioned to lay out this second links. The New Course opened for play on April 10, 1895, with a ceremonial round featuring the local doctor, sheriff, and Old Tom himself. According to historical records, the flags were colored blue going out and yellow coming in—a charming detail from the Dundee Courier's coverage of that inaugural day.Design and Layout: A Parallel Journey
The New Course follows a traditional out-and-back routing characteristic of Scottish links golf. The front nine runs almost entirely parallel to the Old Course's front nine, with the two courses separated by a narrow strip of land. Where the Old Course turns left, the New takes a right, creating a distinct but complementary experience. Holes 1 through 8 border the Old Course on its east side, and holes 4 through 6 play inside the distinctive shepherd's crook routing of the Old Course. The first tee and 18th green are located near the Ladies Putting Green, known locally as the Himalayas. The course features a large double green shared by the 3rd and 15th holes, echoing a design hallmark of its older neighbor. The routing eventually turns toward the Eden Estuary before the homeward nine brings golfers back toward the Links Trust clubhouse.The Challenge: Gorse, Wind, and Demanding Holes
While the New Course may lack the quirky character and blind shots of the Old Course, it presents a formidable and honest challenge. After a generous opening, the course becomes increasingly demanding, with fairways bounded closely by vast banks of yellow-flowering gorse that punish wayward drives. The course measures just under 6,400 yards from the yellow tees, but length alone does not define its difficulty. Old Tom Morris's signature long par-4s and exceptionally long par-3s demand precision and power. Two par-3s play over 220 yards, and the 9th hole stands as perhaps the most memorable on the course—a treacherous 225-yard short hole that runs along the water's edge to a partially sunken green. Anything left finds out of bounds; gorse guards the right. Played into a strong wind, it rivals any par-3 on the Old Course in severity. The 6th hole, at 445 yards, is the longest par-4 on the front nine and becomes brutally difficult when the wind is against you. The homeward nine is particularly exacting, with several holes that demand careful course management and precise shot-making.Fairways, Greens, and Honest Bunkering
The New Course differs from the Old in several important ways. Its fairways are considerably narrower and more defined, with fast-running turf that rewards drives that land on the fly and stay there. Missing the fairway by a small margin does not punish as severely as on the Old Course, but distance is sacrificed. The greens are fast, rolling, and honest—true-running surfaces without the deep hollows, awkward run-off areas, or unpredictable bounces that characterize the Old Course. The bunkering, while well-designed and strategically placed, is less vast and yawning than the Old's famous hazards. The terrain rises and falls naturally, creating a first-class links experience that uses the landscape to its advantage without the eccentricity of its famous neighbor. This more conventional design makes the New Course a less demanding first play for those new to St Andrews, yet it remains a serious examination of golfing skill and temperament.A Local Favorite and Worthy Destination
The New Course holds a special place in the hearts of St Andrews golfers and locals. It is often overshadowed by the Old Course's legendary status, yet it deserves recognition as a superb links in its own right. The course offers a distinctive challenge and a pure golfing experience rooted in tradition. Many consider it the finest of the downtown St Andrews courses after the Old, and it is frequently the locals' preferred choice for regular play. Tee times are generally easier to obtain than on the Old Course, and green fees are considerably more affordable, ranging from £65 in winter to £130 in summer. For visitors planning a St Andrews pilgrimage, the New Course serves as an ideal warm-up or companion round, offering excellent value and a solid, rewarding links experience that honors Old Tom Morris's enduring design legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Swilcan Bridge
0.3 km
A centuries-old stone arch bridging golf’s past and present on the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.
Martyrs' Monument
0.6 km
A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.
V&A Dundee
15.8 km
Explore Scotland's design heritage at V&A Dundee, a breathtaking museum showcasing innovation through art, architecture, and interactive experiences.
HMS Unicorn
15.9 km
Discover the rich maritime heritage of the HMS Unicorn, a preserved 19th-century warship and museum in Dundee, offering an engaging glimpse into naval history.
Discovery Walk Historical Walk
15.9 km
A bronze trail through Dundee’s history, celebrating local innovators and reformers whose ideas changed the world.
Slessor Gardens
15.9 km
Explore the tranquility of Slessor Gardens in Dundee, a picturesque park perfect for relaxation, leisure, and cultural events.
St. Monans Harbour
16.0 km
Explore St. Monans Harbour: A serene marina brimming with coastal beauty, rich history, and delightful local seafood experiences in Scotland.
Dundee Science Centre
16.0 km
Discover the exciting world of science at Dundee Science Centre - an interactive hub of learning and fun for all ages in the heart of Dundee.
Abandon Ship
16.0 km
Experience the unique maritime charm of Abandon Ship, Dundee's vibrant bar known for craft beers, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for all.
Metalurgey
16.0 km
Explore your creativity at Metalurgey, Dundee's top tattoo and piercing shop, where artistry meets personal expression for everyone.
St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
16.1 km
Experience the best of Scottish craft beer and delicious local cuisine at St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall in Dundee, a must-visit for food and drink lovers.
Meeting House
16.1 km
Experience the serene ambiance of Meeting House, a historical church in Dundee, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Dundee Historic Environment Trust
16.1 km
Explore Dundee's rich heritage at the Dundee Historic Environment Trust, where history and environmental conservation come together.
Proposed Site of Eden Project Dundee
16.1 km
Explore the upcoming Eden Project Dundee, a unique blend of biodiversity, sustainability, and education nestled in the heart of Scotland's vibrant city.
Dundee Contemporary Arts
16.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of art and cinema at Dundee Contemporary Arts, a cultural hub in the heart of Dundee, celebrating creativity and community.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Andrews Links Clubhouse
0.1 km
Experience the historic heart of golf with panoramic views, world-class courses, and vibrant clubhouse life at St Andrews Links.
St Andrews Ladies' Putting Club
0.2 km
Experience the world’s oldest ladies’ golf club on the iconic undulating Himalayas putting course in the heart of St Andrews.
The Jigger Inn
0.2 km
Discover the charm of The Jigger Inn in St Andrews, where traditional Scottish hospitality meets stunning views and delicious cuisine.
The St Andrews Golf Club
0.5 km
America’s oldest golf club, where tradition and history meet on the greens since 1888.
Old Course
0.5 km
Experience the legendary Old Course at St Andrews, the historic birthplace of golf and a public course steeped in centuries of sporting heritage.
The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews
0.5 km
The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews: The historic birthplace and global authority of golf since 1754.
The R&A World Golf Museum
0.5 km
Explore over 400 years of golf history at The R&A World Golf Museum, with stunning views of St Andrews’ iconic Old Course.
Links Golf St Andrews
0.5 km
Experience bespoke luxury golf tours and guaranteed Old Course tee times in the historic Home of Golf, St Andrews.
Old Course Shop, St Andrews Links
0.5 km
Discover the essence of golf at the Old Course Shop in St Andrews, where history meets high-quality sportswear and memorabilia.
St Andrews Aquarium
0.6 km
Discover a captivating underwater world and more at St Andrews Aquarium, perched on scenic cliffs with daily interactive animal experiences.
Topping & Company Booksellers of St Andrews
0.8 km
A beloved independent bookstore in St Andrews offering vast collections, cozy ambiance, and engaging literary events.
NPH Cinema
0.8 km
Historic 1930s cinema in St Andrews blending vintage charm with modern entertainment at T-Squared Social.
St Andrews Harbour Trust
0.9 km
Historic 14th-century working harbour in St Andrews blending maritime heritage with vibrant community life and future-focused development.
St Andrews Market
0.9 km
Monthly marketplace celebrating local artisans, sustainable practices, and Scottish heritage in historic St Andrews.
St Andrews
1.0 km
Discover St Andrews: Scotland’s historic town where medieval ruins meet world-famous golf and stunning coastal landscapes.
Essential places to dine
The Saint Bar & Kitchen
0.9 km
Cozy Scottish gastropub in St Andrews serving fresh local dishes, craft cocktails, and an award-winning sticky toffee pudding in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Bothy St Andrews
1.0 km
Cozy Scottish dining in historic Church Square with fresh local flavors, quirky charm, and intimate private spaces.
The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms
8.8 km
Michelin-starred dining and elegant rooms in a historic Fife coaching inn surrounded by tranquil gardens and countryside charm.
Urban Beach - The Glass Pavilion
13.9 km
Seaside dining with stunning River Tay views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere in charming Broughty Ferry.
Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar
13.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant Mediterranean flavours in the heart of Broughty Ferry, Dundee’s charming coastal suburb.
The Ship Inn & Waterfront Restaurant
13.9 km
A charming gastropub on Dundee’s waterfront, offering fresh seafood, scenic river views, and a warm, lively atmosphere in Broughty Ferry.
Bruach Bar
14.0 km
Stylish family-owned bar and restaurant in Broughty Ferry serving fresh Scottish cuisine and award-winning cocktails from brunch to late night.
The Fort
14.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and authentic Italian cuisine at The Fort in Broughty Ferry - your go-to pub for food and fun.
Forgan's Broughty Ferry
14.1 km
A modern Scottish restaurant in Broughty Ferry blending traditional flavors with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy rustic setting.
Collinsons Restaurant
14.1 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Broughty Ferry with seasonal local ingredients, refined ambiance, and impeccable service.
Meze Grill
14.2 km
Savor authentic Mediterranean grilled delights and vibrant mezes in the welcoming coastal charm of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House
14.3 km
Experience modern Indian cuisine in a historic Gothic Revival setting with vibrant flavors and lively events at Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House.
The Rockies Restaurant
15.4 km
Coastal charm and fresh local flavors combine at The Rockies Restaurant, a beloved dining spot in scenic Anstruther.
The Dory Bistro & Gallery
15.6 km
Fresh seafood delights meet vibrant local art in a charming harbour-side bistro in Pittenweem’s historic fishing village.
Craig Millar @ 16 West End
15.9 km
Award-winning seafood dining with stunning harbour views in the charming fishing village of St Monans, Fife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Gift Gallery
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes at The Gift Gallery, nestled in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Taste of Scotland Gifts and Souvenirs
0.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs with exceptional service in the heart of St Andrews’ historic Market Street.
Ostara by Pretty Things
1.0 km
Discover sustainable fashion and unique Scottish style at Ostara by Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of St Andrews.
The Scottish Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Highland clothing and Scottish gifts with exceptional service in the heart of historic St Andrews.
Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews
1.0 km
Discover quirky gifts and charming treasures at Bonkers Gift Shop, a vibrant and unique shopping destination in the heart of historic St Andrews.
The Original Factory Shop (Cupar)
12.8 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on clothing, beauty, and home essentials at Cupar’s premier discount store, The Original Factory Shop.
Hidden Gem Gifts
12.9 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a cozy boutique nestled in Cupar’s historic Bonnygate street.
Lulu & M
14.0 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and accessories in a charming boutique setting at Lulu & M in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Bella Mella
14.1 km
Discover trendsetting women's fashion and exceptional service at Bella Mella, a stylish boutique in the heart of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home
15.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts, cards, and stylish home accessories in the heart of Anstruther’s charming East Neuk coast.
Love Your Sparkle Boutique
15.5 km
Discover unique style and personal sparkle at Dundee’s charming Love Your Sparkle Boutique in Broughty Ferry.
Funky Scottish
15.5 km
Discover Scottish art, gifts, and coffee in a vibrant, creative space at Funky Scottish in the heart of Pittenweem.
The Cheesery - Dundee Cheese Shop
16.1 km
Discover Dundee’s finest artisan cheeses and expert advice at The Cheesery, your local cheese specialist on Exchange Street.
Assai Records Dundee
16.1 km
Discover rare vinyl treasures and vibrant music culture at Assai Records Dundee, the city’s premier record shop on Union Street.
Quirky Coo
16.1 km
Dundee's independent gift emporium offering curated Scottish treasures and distinctive homeware.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fisherman's Tavern
14.0 km
Historic coastal pub and hotel in Broughty Ferry offering traditional ales, hearty fare, live events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Anchor Bar
14.0 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Broughty Ferry offering great food, drinks, live music, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Royal Arch Bar & Bistro
14.1 km
A cosy and authentic bar & bistro in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, famed for its steak pie, friendly service, and traditional Scottish pub charm.
The Gunners Bar
14.1 km
Experience traditional Scottish hospitality and local charm at The Gunners Bar, a cozy and friendly pub in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Occidental Bar
14.5 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and vibrant pub culture at Occidental Bar, a cozy local gem in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.
Nether Inn
16.1 km
Lively and welcoming pub in Dundee’s city centre, famed for sports, live music, and great value shared plates in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Bank Bar Dundee
16.1 km
Traditional Dundee pub in a former bank, serving award-winning ales, home-cooked food, and vibrant live music showcasing local talent.
Draffens
16.1 km
Discover Dundee’s hidden gem—a cozy cocktail laboratory blending history, creativity, and intimate nightlife in Couttie's Wynd.
The Salty Dog
16.1 km
A lively Dundee pub offering local brews, diverse menus, and vibrant entertainment in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
Trades House
16.1 km
Historic Dundee pub with carved interiors, lively sports screens, and a welcoming beer garden in the heart of the city.
The Pillars Bar & Lounge
16.1 km
Historic Dundee pub blending traditional charm with friendly locals, quality ales, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Phoenix
16.1 km
One of Dundee’s oldest pubs, The Phoenix offers authentic Scottish ales, hearty food, and a warm, timeless atmosphere in the city centre.
Tickety Boo's
16.2 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Dundee blending historic charm with hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Market Bar
16.2 km
Lively and affordable pub and restaurant in Dundee’s city centre, known for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
16.2 km
Dundee’s vibrant LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub offering lively drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city center.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Decades Bar & Nightclub
16.1 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Rewind dundee
16.2 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Underground
16.2 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
OUT Nightclub
16.3 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
16.3 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
Fat Sams
16.5 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
AURA Nightclub
16.5 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Club Tropicana & Venga
16.5 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Private Eyes
16.5 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Afro Beats
16.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
Truth
20.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.
De Vitos Nightclub
27.4 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
The Schofies Residence 1
29.0 km
A lively nightclub nestled in Glenrothes, offering a vibrant social scene and memorable nights in Scotland’s welcoming town.
Royal Night Club
33.7 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
Republic Bar Club
34.1 km
Experience Kirkcaldy’s vibrant nightlife at Republic Bar Club, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and lively weekends come together.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
