The Old Course at St Andrews

Right in Scotland’s heart, The Old Course at St Andrews opens to everyone. It’s run by St Andrews Links Trust and owned by Fife Council. Known as the “home of golf,” this course started in 1552. This makes it one of the oldest and most famous golf places in the world¹. You’ll find it at 56°20′35″N 2°48′11″W, in St Andrews, Fife, Scotland. It stretches over 7,305 yards and has a par of 72¹. Ross Fisher set the course record with a 61 in 2017¹. People often call it the Old Lady or the Grand Old Lady. It’s celebrated for holding the most Open Championships, with its 30th in 2022¹.

Key Takeaways

The Old Course at St Andrews is a historic course established in 1552, making it the oldest in the gold world¹.
Located in St Andrews, Scotland, it spans 7,305 yards with a par of 72¹.
The course has hosted The Open Championship 30 times, most recently in 2022¹.
Ross Fisher set the course record with a score of 61 in 2017¹.
Known as the “home of golf,” it remains one of the most iconic sites in links golf history.

History and Heritage of The Old Course

The Old Course at St Andrews lies in Scotland, dating back centuries. It’s a true symbol of golf traditions. Known as the “home of golf,” it combines a rich history with modern golf’s fame.

The Origins of The Old Course

Golf started at The Old Course in St Andrews in the early 15th century. James II of Scotland banned it in 1457, but James IV, a golf fan, ended that ban in 1502. The Archbishop of St Andrews first managed it in 1552, making it officially established¹. Later, The R&A took over, marking its place in golf history.

The Evolution of the Course

St Andrews set the 18-hole round standard in 1764, thanks to William St Clair of Roslin. Designers like Daw Anderson and Old Tom Morris made it what it is today. The course introduced unique features like shared and separate greens¹. The Swilcan Bridge, over 700 years old, showcases the course’s long history¹.

Significant Events and Championships

The Old Course has hosted The Open Championship 30 times. This makes it a top venue in golf¹. Golf great Bobby Jones won here in 1927, confirming its importance. Today, events like the Father and Son Golf Tournament keep bringing golf fans here².

Notable Features and Famous Holes

The Old Course at St Andrews is famous for its special parts. It has well-known famous holes. The Swilcan Bridge is a key feature that everyone knows.

The Swilcan Bridge and Burn

The Swilcan Bridge is an old stone bridge that’s 700 years old. It goes over the Swilcan Burn. It connects the first and eighteenth fairways. This bridge is a landmark everyone wants to see. Golfers from all over the world know its value.

The 1st and 18th holes are very popular for photos. This is because you can see the Swilcan Bridge behind them³⁴.

Iconic Bunkers and Hazards

The Old Course is known for its hard bunkers and hazards. There are 112 of them on the course. The Hell Bunker on the 14th hole is very hard for expert golfers⁴.

The Valley of Sin at the 18th hole makes the last shot exciting but hard³. These hazards make the game of links golf here a true challenge.

The Legendary 17th Hole – The Road Hole

The 17th hole, The Road Hole, is the most famous and tough hole here. Its hard layout and the big Road Hole bunker have challenged many³⁴⁵.

It’s one of the hardest holes played in the Open. This hole shows why the Old Course at St Andrews is so prized in the world of links golf⁵.

Experiencing St Andrews: Beyond the Course

Visitors to St Andrews, Scotland, find more than just historic golf courses. Right next to the 17th hole of the Old Course, the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa offers luxury stays. Guests enjoy stunning views that make their visit special.

The Kohler Waters Spa at the hotel gives both golf fans and others a chance to unwind⁶. At the West Deck, everyone can savor meals outside. They enjoy the local flavors and the beautiful views.

West Sands Beach with its long, sandy stretches, offers great views and peace for those who walk its shores. The rich history of St Andrews adds fascination, making it a memorable place.

The Experience Golf ensures golfers can play on the famous Old Course⁷. They offer tours like The Open Venues Signature Tour, with 7 nights and 6 golf rounds from £7,750 per person⁶⁷. Another is The Home of Golf Tour in 2025. It’s available from May 25 to July 6, 2025, costing £8,370 per person⁶⁷.

Not just for golf lovers, the place has lots to do like gin making at Darnley’s Distillery and walking tours of St Andrews. Visitors also explore Edinburgh Castle. The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, is known for its green practices⁶. It received a Green Tourism award for its eco-friendly efforts.

Tours	Nights	Rounds of Golf	Cost per Person
The Father and Son Golf Tournament	5	4	£7,625
The Open Venues Signature Tour	7	6	£7,750
The Home of Golf Tour 2025	7	6	£8,370

In St Andrews, Scotland, The Old Course Hotel, and nearby spots combine golf with Scottish charm. Beside golf, you can enjoy cultural and historical gems. West Sands Beach and the Kohler Waters Spa add to the unforgettable visit.

Conclusion

The Old Course at St Andrews is more than just a place to play golf. It represents hundreds of years of tradition and the growth of the sport. Known around the world, this famous golf links started in 1552. It has hosted over 30 Open Championships, showing its importance in golf history.

St Andrews is not just about golf; it has much more to offer. Visitors can enjoy the town’s mix of luxury, culture, and beauty. The University of St. Andrews, one of the oldest in the English-speaking world, adds to the town’s lively atmosphere. The British Golf Museum lets you explore the sport’s history, making your visit both fun and educational.

St Andrews is lively, with many cultural events and festivals. The St. Andrews Food and Drink Festival lets you taste delicious dishes. Meanwhile, the St. Andrews Film Festival offers movie excitement. The town also has a wide range of places to stay and eat, catering to all preferences.

Surrounded by stunning nature, St Andrews offers more than golf. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches like West Sands Beach and try outdoor activities along the Fife Coastal Path. A trip to St Andrews is a complete Scottish experience, full of tradition and natural beauty.

FAQ

What is the significance of The Old Course at St Andrews?

The Old Course at St Andrews is known as the ‘home of golf.’ It’s among the oldest and most famous golf spots worldwide. Opening its greens in 1552, it showcases centuries of golfing heritage. It has been the venue for 30 Open Championships.

Who operates and owns The Old Course at St Andrews?

St Andrews Links Trust runs The Old Course. Fife Council owns it.

Can the public play a round of golf at The Old Course?

Yes, The Old Course is open to the public. It welcomes golfers globally to its historic fairways.

What are some famous holes at The Old Course?

The 17th hole, known as The Road Hole, is notably tough. Places like the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are famous too.

Who holds the course record at The Old Course and what is the score?

Ross Fisher set a record with a score of 61 in 2017.

What are notable features of the course layout?

The layout includes seven double greens and four single greens. Its traditional direction is anti-clockwise, but it was sometimes played clockwise.

What is the historical significance of the Swilcan Bridge?

The Swilcan Bridge, over 700 years old, is a key golf landmark. It symbolizes The Old Course’s deep history.

What can visitors experience beyond the golf course at St Andrews?

The Old Course Hotel offers luxury stays and stunning views. Visitors can explore St Andrews’ historic town, enjoy West Sands Beach, and relax at Kohler Waters Spa.

What kind of sustainable practices are in place at The Old Course Hotel?

The hotel has won a Green Tourism award for its focus on sustainability. It combines luxury with environmental care.