The Definitive Guide to Golfing in St Andrews, Scotland
(A Comprehensive Resource for International Golfers & Locals)
Welcome to St Andrews, the mythical home of golf and a destination steeped in history, tradition, and unparalleled golfing excellence. This guide is designed to be your essential companion, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned golfer returning to this iconic locale. We've compiled a wealth of information, blending practical details with local insights, to ensure a memorable and enriching golfing experience.
Course Rankings & Reviews
St Andrews boasts a remarkable concentration of world-class courses. Here's a breakdown of the top 7 public/semi-private options, renowned for their signature holes, unique features, and place within the local golfing landscape.
1. The Old Course (Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews):
- Signature Hole: 17th (Road Hole) - a legendary finishing hole with a daunting approach across the Swilcan Bridge.
- Notable Features: The only course in the world allowed to be played in its original form, with no out of bounds. Deep bunkers, undulating fairways, and a challenging links layout.
- Local Context: The spiritual heart of golf, steeped in centuries of history and tradition. Playing the Old Course is a pilgrimage for many golfers.
- Review Snippet: "An absolute must-play. The atmosphere is electric, and the history permeates every step. Be prepared for a unique and demanding test of skill."
2. The New Course (Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews):
- Signature Hole: 4th - a dramatic par-3 with a deep, intimidating bunker guarding the front.
- Notable Features: A more modern links design than the Old Course, with longer holes and more strategically placed bunkers.
- Local Context: Offers a slightly less intense but equally challenging experience compared to the Old Course.
- Review Snippet: "A fantastic course with a good mix of challenge and strategic options. The layout is engaging, and the views are superb."
3. The Jubilee Course (The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers):
- Signature Hole: 10th - a demanding par-4 with a blind tee shot over a hill.
- Notable Features: Known for its undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging approach shots.
- Local Context: A classic links course with a strong reputation among local golfers.
- Review Snippet: "A true test of links golf. Requires accuracy and thoughtful shot selection. A rewarding experience for those who appreciate a classic layout."
4. King David Course (The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews):
- Signature Hole: 18th - a challenging par-4 with a dogleg approach.
- Notable Features: A slightly less famous but still highly regarded links course with a distinctive character.
- Local Context: Offers a more secluded and peaceful golfing experience.
- Review Snippet: "A beautiful course with a wonderful atmosphere. Less crowded than some of the more popular courses, making for a relaxed round."
5. Braid Hills Golf Club:
- Signature Hole: 12th - a picturesque par-3 over a burn.
- Notable Features: A well-maintained parkland course with a more forgiving layout than the links courses.
- Local Context: A popular choice for locals and visitors seeking a relaxed and enjoyable round.
- Review Snippet: "A lovely course, well-kept and easy to play. A great option for those who prefer a slightly less demanding test."
6. Fairmont St Andrews (Swilcan Course):
- Signature Hole: 18th - a scenic par-4 with views over St Andrews town.
- Notable Features: A championship course with stunning views, offering a blend of parkland and links features.
- Local Context: A popular resort course with excellent facilities and a convenient location.
- Review Snippet: "Beautifully designed with fantastic views. A great option for a resort stay with a quality golf experience."
7. St Andrews (Old Course) Hotel & Spa (Loch Lomond Course):
- Signature Hole: 18th - a challenging par-4 with a strategic bunkering.
- Notable Features: A well-regarded championship course offering a more modern and often less crowded experience than the Old Course.
- Local Context: Conveniently located near the town centre, offering a good value option.
- Review Snippet: "A solid championship course that provides a good challenge. Well-maintained and offers a pleasant golfing experience."
International Golfer Essentials
Difficulty & Standards:
- Old Course: Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 72.3, Slope Rating: 131.
- New Course: Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 71.8, Slope Rating: 129.
- Jubilee Course: Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 72.5, Slope Rating: 130.
- King David Course: Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 72.2, Slope Rating: 129.
- Braid Hills: Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 70.8, Slope Rating: 128.
- Fairmont St Andrews (Swilcan): Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 71.5, Slope Rating: 128.
- St Andrews (Old Course) Hotel & Spa (Loch Lomond): Scratch Score (Par 72), Course Rating: 71.2, Slope Rating: 128.
USGA/R&A Slope Comparison: The Slope Rating indicates the relative difficulty of a course compared to a par-3 course with a rating of 103. A higher slope indicates a more difficult course.
Language Considerations: English is widely spoken in St Andrews. Key golf terms in Scots (local dialect) include "forsyte" (fore), "gullies" (bunkers), and "birdie" (one under par).
Cultural Golf Etiquette:
- Dress Code: Smart casual is generally acceptable. Traditional golf attire (plus fours, tweed) is sometimes seen but not mandatory.
- Pace of Play: Maintaining a good pace of play is highly valued. Be ready to play when it's your turn.
- Respect for the Course: Repair divots and ball marks. Avoid walking on putting lines.
- Communication: A simple "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" is polite.
- Tipping: Tipping caddies is customary, typically around £5-£10 per caddie, depending on service.
Booking Requirements: Advance booking is essential, especially for the Old Course. Many courses utilize online booking systems. Ensure you have necessary identification and consider guest policies if booking for a group.
Seasonal & Climate Intelligence
Monthly Playing Guide:
| Month | Avg. High (°C) | Avg. Low (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Optimal Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6 | 2 | 75-80 | Potentially playable, but often cold and wet. |
| February | 7 | 3 | 65-70 | Can be playable, but expect damp conditions. |
| March | 8 | 4 | 60-65 | Improving, but still prone to rain. |
| April | 10 | 5 | 50-55 | Generally good, with increasing sunshine. |
| May | 12 | 6 | 40-45 | Excellent, with longer daylight hours. |
| June | 14 | 8 | 35-40 | Warm and dry, ideal for golf. |
| July | 15 | 9 | 30-35 | Peak season, expect higher prices and more people. |
| August | 15 | 9 | 30-35 | Still warm and dry, popular with families. |
| September | 14 | 8 | 35-40 | Pleasant weather, fewer crowds than July/August. |
| October | 11 | 6 | 50-55 | Can be mild and sunny, but also prone to rain. |
| November | 7 | 3 | 75-80 | Often wet and windy. |
| December | 5 | 1 | 75-80 | Cold and damp, limited playing opportunities. |
Peak Season Strategy: July and August are the busiest months. Book tee times well in advance (several months). Prices are typically higher, and courses can be crowded.
Off-Season Opportunities: Shoulder seasons (April-May & September-October) offer milder weather, fewer crowds, and often reduced green fees.
Weather Contingencies: Several courses have covered practice areas or indoor facilities. Consider bringing waterproof gear and layers for unpredictable weather.
Practical Travel Integration
Access & Transportation:
- Airport Proximity: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the closest major airport (approx. 45-minute drive). Glasgow Airport (GLA) is further (approx. 1.5-hour drive).
- Rental Car: Recommended for exploring the region and accessing courses outside of St Andrews.
- Public Transport: Local buses connect St Andrews with nearby towns.
- Taxi/Ride-Share: Readily available in St Andrews.
Accommodation Partnerships: Numerous hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering options are available. Many offer stay-and-play packages.
Multi-Course Planning: A logical routing could include: Day 1 - Old Course; Day 2 - New Course; Day 3 - Jubilee Course. Consider distances between courses when planning.
Equipment Considerations: Quality clubs can be rented from various local pro shops. Shipping options are available through many major golf retailers.
Financial & Legal Framework
Pricing Structure:
- Green Fees: £90 - £250+ per round (USD $110 - $300+ / EUR €100 - €280+). Prices vary significantly based on course, time of year, and tee time.
- Cart Fees: £20-£35 per cart.
- Caddie Costs: £50-£80 per caddie.
- Mandatory Charges: Some courses may have small mandatory charges.
Payment Methods: Most courses accept major credit cards. Cash is also accepted. Currency exchange is readily available at airports and banks.
Visitor Documentation: Passport and valid driver's license are typically required.
Insurance & Liability: Consider purchasing travel insurance that includes golf coverage.
Cultural & Regional Context
Golf Heritage: St Andrews is widely regarded as the birthplace of modern golf. The game has a rich history dating back to the 15th century.
Architectural Identity: Old Course architect William Prestongrange Murray designed the iconic layout. Regional design influences emphasize the natural links terrain.
Tournament Legacy: The Open Championship has been held at the Old Course for over 100 years, cementing its legendary status.
This is a comprehensive overview. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official websites of the courses and the R&A. Enjoy your golf in St Andrews!