The Old Course at St Andrews: The Birthplace of Golf

The Old Course at St Andrews: The historic home of golf and the birthplace of the 18-hole game, open to all on Scotland’s iconic links.

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The Old Course at St Andrews, located on W Sands Rd, is the oldest golf course in the world and widely regarded as the home of golf. Dating back to the 15th century, it set the standard 18-hole layout still used globally. Known for its iconic features like the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker, the course remains a public links open to all, hosting The Open Championship and attracting golf enthusiasts worldwide.

A brief summary to Old Course

W Sands Rd, St Andrews, St Andrews, KY16 9XL, GB
+441334466666
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 5 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book your tee time well in advance through the St Andrews Links Trust application system, which opens annually at the end of August.
Bring a valid handicap certificate to play; the course requires a handicap limit of 24 for men and 36 for women.
Visit on a Sunday if you want to walk the course freely, as it is closed to golfers that day.
Take time to explore landmarks like the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker, iconic features of the Old Course.
Use the modern clubhouse facilities for lockers, showers, and dining with views of the course.

Getting There

Train and Bus

From Edinburgh, take a train to Leuchars station (approximately 1.5 hours), then a local bus or taxi to St Andrews town center (about 15 minutes). The Old Course is a 15-minute walk from the town center. Train tickets cost around £15-£25 one way.
Car

Driving from Glasgow takes about 2.5 hours via the M8 and A91. Parking is available near the Old Course but can be limited during peak times. Parking fees range from £5 to £15 per day.
Coach Service

Direct coach services run from Edinburgh and Glasgow to St Andrews, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours. Coaches are affordable, with fares typically between £10 and £20, but schedules vary seasonally.

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 is recognized as the oldest golf course globally, with origins tracing back to the early 15th century. The land was declared common ground in the 12th century, and by 1552, a charter confirmed the townspeople's rights to play golf on the links. Initially, the course consisted of 22 holes played out and back along the same fairways. In 1764, the course was reconfigured into 18 holes, establishing the standard for golf courses worldwide. This historic evolution was driven by the Society of St Andrews Golfers, the precursor to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A), which now governs golf outside the US and Mexico.

Course Layout and Features

The Old Course is famous for its unique layout, including seven large double greens where two holes share the same putting surface, with hole numbers adding up to 18. The course stretches 6,609 yards for men and 6,032 yards for women, with a par of 72. Notable landmarks include the Swilcan Bridge, a 700-year-old stone bridge over the Swilcan Burn, and the Hell Bunker, a deep and challenging sand trap. The course’s fairways and greens have been shaped and widened over time, notably by Old Tom Morris in the 19th century, to accommodate increasing play and maintain its challenge.

Modern Role and Events

Today, the Old Course remains a public links course, open to all golfers who meet handicap requirements, with rounds starting from around £100. It hosts The Open Championship, golf’s oldest major, more frequently than any other venue, with the first Open held there in 1873. The course also supports numerous prestigious amateur and professional tournaments, including the Dunhill Links Championship and the Walker Cup. The St Andrews Links Trust manages the course, ensuring it remains accessible and preserved for future generations.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The Old Course offers a unique experience blending history and sport. The modern clubhouse near the first tee provides registration, lockers, showers, and dining with views over the course. A nearby pavilion offers refreshments and bag drop services. On Sundays, the course is closed to golfers and open to pedestrians, allowing visitors to walk the historic grounds safely. The surrounding town of St Andrews complements the visit with its cobbled streets, boutique shops, and cultural attractions.

Architectural and Environmental Context

The course is a classic links layout, characterized by natural coastal dunes, wide fairways, and large undulating greens. Its design evolved organically without a single architect, shaped by natural landforms and the practical needs of golfers over centuries. The Old Course’s environment is a protected coastal habitat, managed sustainably to balance public access with conservation. The links’ open, windswept setting provides a scenic and challenging golf experience unlike any other.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

The Old Course is more than a golf venue; it is a cultural icon that has influenced the game’s rules, traditions, and global appeal. Innovations such as the 18-hole round and double greens originated here. The course has witnessed historic moments and legendary players, embedding itself in golf lore. Its status as the spiritual home of golf draws enthusiasts worldwide, making it a pilgrimage site for anyone passionate about the sport’s heritage and future.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Martyrs' Monument

0.1 km

A towering tribute to St Andrews’ Protestant martyrs, standing proudly as a beacon of faith, sacrifice, and Scottish Reformation history.

Swilcan Bridge

0.3 km

A centuries-old stone arch bridging golf’s past and present on the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.

Claypotts Castle

15.7 km

Explore the historic charm of Claypotts Castle, a 16th-century treasure in Dundee, Scotland, surrounded by gorgeous gardens and rich history.

Newark Castle

15.9 km

Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Newark Castle in Anstruther, Scotland – a perfect blend of adventure and cultural heritage.

Dundee Maritime Trail

16.2 km

Discover Dundee's illustrious maritime history along the scenic Dundee Maritime Trail, where culture and heritage meet stunning waterfront views.

RRS Discovery

16.2 km

Discover the RRS Discovery, a historic vessel in Dundee embodying maritime exploration and the spirit of adventure.

Discovery Point and RRS Discovery

16.2 km

Explore the rich maritime history of Scotland at Discovery Point and step aboard the RRS Discovery, an iconic ship of exploration.

V&A Dundee

16.2 km

Explore Scotland's design heritage at V&A Dundee, a breathtaking museum showcasing innovation through art, architecture, and interactive experiences.

HMS Unicorn

16.3 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

16.3 km

A bronze trail through Dundee’s history, celebrating local innovators and reformers whose ideas changed the world.

Slessor Gardens

16.4 km

Explore the tranquility of Slessor Gardens in Dundee, a picturesque park perfect for relaxation, leisure, and cultural events.

Dundee Science Centre

16.4 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

16.4 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

16.5 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

16.5 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.

Historic neo-Jacobean auditorium nestled in St Salvator’s Quadrangle, blending centuries of academic tradition with vibrant university life.

Lower College Hall - University of St Andrews

Essential places to dine

The Saint Bar & Kitchen

0.6 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

0.6 km

Cozy Scottish dining in historic Church Square with fresh local flavors, quirky charm, and intimate private spaces.

The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms

8.9 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

14.2 km

Seaside dining with stunning River Tay views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere in charming Broughty Ferry.

Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar

14.3 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

14.3 km

A charming gastropub on Dundee’s waterfront, offering fresh seafood, scenic river views, and a warm, lively atmosphere in Broughty Ferry.

Bruach Bar

14.3 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

14.4 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

14.4 km

A modern Scottish restaurant in Broughty Ferry blending traditional flavors with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy rustic setting.

Collinsons Restaurant

14.5 km

Elegant Modern European dining in Broughty Ferry with seasonal local ingredients, refined ambiance, and impeccable service.

Meze Grill

14.5 km

Savor authentic Mediterranean grilled delights and vibrant mezes in the welcoming coastal charm of Broughty Ferry, Dundee.

Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House

14.6 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

15.1 km

Coastal charm and fresh local flavors combine at The Rockies Restaurant, a beloved dining spot in scenic Anstruther.

The Dory Bistro & Gallery

15.2 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

15.7 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

0.4 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

0.5 km

Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs with exceptional service in the heart of St Andrews’ historic Market Street.

Ostara by Pretty Things

0.6 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

0.6 km

Discover authentic Highland clothing and Scottish gifts with exceptional service in the heart of historic St Andrews.

Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews

0.6 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)

13.2 km

Discover unbeatable bargains on clothing, beauty, and home essentials at Cupar’s premier discount store, The Original Factory Shop.

Hidden Gem Gifts

13.3 km

Discover unique, locally crafted gifts in a cozy boutique nestled in Cupar’s historic Bonnygate street.

Lulu & M

14.4 km

Discover contemporary women's fashion and accessories in a charming boutique setting at Lulu & M in Broughty Ferry, Dundee.

Bella Mella

14.4 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

14.9 km

Discover unique Scottish gifts, cards, and stylish home accessories in the heart of Anstruther’s charming East Neuk coast.

Funky Scottish

15.2 km

Discover Scottish art, gifts, and coffee in a vibrant, creative space at Funky Scottish in the heart of Pittenweem.

Love Your Sparkle Boutique

15.8 km

Discover unique style and personal sparkle at Dundee’s charming Love Your Sparkle Boutique in Broughty Ferry.

The Cheesery - Dundee Cheese Shop

16.5 km

Discover Dundee’s finest artisan cheeses and expert advice at The Cheesery, your local cheese specialist on Exchange Street.

Assai Records Dundee

16.5 km

Discover rare vinyl treasures and vibrant music culture at Assai Records Dundee, the city’s premier record shop on Union Street.

Quirky Coo

16.5 km

Dundee's independent gift emporium offering curated Scottish treasures and distinctive homeware.

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

16.5 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

16.6 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.

Underground

16.6 km

Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.

OUT Nightclub

16.7 km

A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.

Pout Bar and Nightclub

16.8 km

Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.

Fat Sams

16.9 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

16.9 km

Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.

Club Tropicana & Venga

16.9 km

Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.

Private Eyes

16.9 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.

Afro Beats

17.0 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.

Truth

20.4 km

Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.

De Vitos Nightclub

27.3 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

29.3 km

A lively nightclub nestled in Glenrothes, offering a vibrant social scene and memorable nights in Scotland’s welcoming town.

Royal Night Club

33.9 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

34.2 km

Experience Kirkcaldy’s vibrant nightlife at Republic Bar Club, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and lively weekends come together.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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The Old Course at St Andrews: The Birthplace of Golf

A brief summary to Old Course

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Train and Bus

Car

Coach Service

Old Course location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Old Course

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Old Course

Origins and Historical Significance

Course Layout and Features

Modern Role and Events

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Architectural and Environmental Context

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Martyrs' Monument

Swilcan Bridge

Claypotts Castle

Newark Castle

Dundee Maritime Trail

RRS Discovery

Discovery Point and RRS Discovery

V&A Dundee

HMS Unicorn

Discovery Walk Historical Walk

Slessor Gardens

Dundee Science Centre

Abandon Ship

Metalurgey

St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall

Unmissable attractions to see

The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews

The R&A World Golf Museum

Old Course Shop, St Andrews Links

The St Andrews Golf Club

St Andrews Aquarium

Links Golf St Andrews

St Andrews Ladies' Putting Club

NPH Cinema

Topping & Company Booksellers of St Andrews

St Andrews Harbour Trust

St Andrews Links Clubhouse

New Course

The Jigger Inn

University of St Andrews

Lower College Hall - University of St Andrews

Essential places to dine

The Saint Bar & Kitchen

The Bothy St Andrews

The Peat Inn Restaurant with Rooms

Urban Beach - The Glass Pavilion

Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar

The Ship Inn & Waterfront Restaurant

Bruach Bar

The Fort

Forgan's Broughty Ferry

Collinsons Restaurant

Meze Grill

Orchid Restaurant @ Gulistan House

The Rockies Restaurant

The Dory Bistro & Gallery

Craig Millar @ 16 West End

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Gift Gallery

Taste of Scotland Gifts and Souvenirs

Ostara by Pretty Things

The Scottish Shop

Bonkers Gift Shop St Andrews

The Original Factory Shop (Cupar)

Hidden Gem Gifts

Lulu & M

Bella Mella

Gibbles Gifts Cards & Home

Funky Scottish