
St Andrews Golf Club
The historic 'Home of Golf,' offering legendary links courses steeped in tradition and challenging play.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

St Andrews Golf Club
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic 'Home of Golf,' offering legendary links courses steeped in tradition and challenging play.
"Such a great course even during the cold weather. The course was maintained at exceptional condition."

🎯 Book Tee Times Far Ahead
The Old Course ballot is competitive. Plan months in advance or explore other St. Andrews Links courses.
🧥 Dress for Scottish Weather
Layers are key! Expect wind, rain, and sun. Waterproofs are essential for a comfortable round.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Old Course
St. Andrews Links
The 'Home of Golf,' a legendary links course steeped in history and challenging play.

The Royal & Ancient Golf Club
St. Andrews
The historic heart of golf, setting rules and traditions for the sport worldwide.

St. Andrews Links Courses
St. Andrews
Explore multiple world-class links courses beyond the Old Course, each with unique character.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tee Time Early
Understand the Courses
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tee Times Far Ahead
The Old Course ballot is competitive. Plan months in advance or explore other St. Andrews Links courses.
🧥 Dress for Scottish Weather
Layers are key! Expect wind, rain, and sun. Waterproofs are essential for a comfortable round.
🚶♂️ Walk the Course
Experience the true links golf feel by walking. Caddies are available but not always required.
📸 Capture Iconic Views
The scenery is as famous as the golf. Don't forget your camera for breathtaking coastal shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tee Times Far Ahead
The Old Course ballot is competitive. Plan months in advance or explore other St. Andrews Links courses.
🧥 Dress for Scottish Weather
Layers are key! Expect wind, rain, and sun. Waterproofs are essential for a comfortable round.
🚶♂️ Walk the Course
Experience the true links golf feel by walking. Caddies are available but not always required.
📸 Capture Iconic Views
The scenery is as famous as the golf. Don't forget your camera for breathtaking coastal shots.
💰 Consider Golf Packages
Packages can simplify booking and sometimes offer better access to tee times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Andrews Golf Club for its well-maintained courses, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery, especially noting the exceptional condition of greens and sand. However, some have experienced significant communication issues regarding venue bookings, leading to disappointment and unprofessionalism.
"We played at St. Andrews Golf Club for the first time and had a pleasant experience. The staff at the pro staff store was friendly and the course was very good. It plays short, but fun. The greens are challenging because there are soooo many curves. The greens are not flat. We will definitely visit again."
Cassie Cunningham
"Really don’t appreciate driving 30 minutes from briarcliff to only be at a location for 10 minutes because the venue manager couldn’t be upfront via email that our date nor any near dates were available. We were in communication for weeks and Amanda didn’t think to bring up the renovations that would block any venue reservations anytime after September 2026 until who knows when because they cannot book anytime in 2027 knowing that our date was around May/june 2027. Her excuse was “assuming our date was pretty flexible.” PRETTY flexible is a few weeks difference, maybe a couple of months, NOT A 8-9 months difference and even if it was a month or few weeks difference, it is still important to bring up! What a slap in the face to get there at 9 in the morning absolutely excited and she shows up after us making us wait just to break us that news and not showing a bit of interest nor care in the world of how we would feel. It looks like a pretty golf course, but absolutely unprofessional, unacceptable, impersonal, and disrespectful. I give it two stars because she was responsive via email and on the phone and it is a pretty course, but please communicate and be upfront with your clients. Just imagine if we came out from out of town (stl for example) and drove for a 10 minute disappointing conversation."
Paola
"Such a great course even during the cold weather. The course was maintained at exceptional condition. The sand was soft as silk. Tee boxes and greens are so clean.
I will come next week again. So far, the best course for the winter in chicago area."
시카고 복덕방 한상철(Sang Han - Realtor)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Andrews is accessible by car, train, and bus. The nearest major airport is Edinburgh (EDI), about an hour's drive away. From Edinburgh, you can take a train to Leuchars or a bus directly to St. Andrews. Many visitors opt for a rental car for flexibility.
Yes, St. Andrews is a well-known destination. The St. Andrews Links courses are clearly signposted within the town. If you're driving, GPS will easily guide you to the various clubhouses and parking areas.
The courses are relatively close to each other within St. Andrews. You can walk between some, use local taxis, or drive your car. Parking is available at each course, though it can get busy during peak season.
Yes, regular bus services connect St. Andrews to major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. Trains run to Leuchars station, which is a short taxi or bus ride from the town center and golf courses.
Taxis are readily available in St. Andrews and can take you to any of the golf clubs. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during busy periods or if you have specific pick-up times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Booking tee times for the Old Course is highly competitive. You can apply through the daily ballot online, typically months in advance. Alternatively, you can try for a limited number of first-come, first-served walk-up tee times, but this requires arriving very early.
Green fees vary significantly by course and season. The Old Course is the most expensive. Fees for other courses like the New Course, Jubilee, and Castle Course are more accessible. Check the official St. Andrews Links website for current pricing.
For the Old Course, a handicap of 24 or less for men and 36 or less for women is generally required. Other courses may have slightly more relaxed requirements, but it's always best to check the specific course's policy.
St. Andrews Links occasionally offers packages or deals, especially during the shoulder seasons. Keep an eye on their official website for any promotions. Playing multiple rounds can sometimes lead to bundled rates.
Yes, you can visit the town of St. Andrews and explore its historic streets, visit the R&A World Golf Museum, and enjoy the scenery without playing golf. You can also visit the clubhouses and pro shops.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
St. Andrews Links features seven courses: the iconic Old Course, the New Course, Jubilee Course, Castle Course, Strathtyrum Course, Balgove Course, and the 9-hole Ladybank Course. Each offers a distinct golfing challenge and experience.
A smart casual dress code is generally expected on the courses and in the clubhouses. This typically includes collared shirts, golf trousers or shorts, and golf shoes. Specific requirements can vary slightly by course, so check in advance.
Yes, caddies are available for hire at St. Andrews Links, particularly for the Old Course. Booking a caddie in advance is highly recommended, as they are in high demand and enhance the playing experience.
Facilities include clubhouses with restaurants and bars, pro shops selling equipment and apparel, practice areas, and locker rooms. The R&A World Golf Museum is also a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
While the Old Course is very challenging, other courses like the Balgove or Strathtyrum are more forgiving for beginners. The town also offers driving ranges and practice facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the clubhouses at St. Andrews Links feature restaurants and bars offering a range of dining options, from casual lunches to more formal dinners. Many offer stunning views of the courses.
St. Andrews offers a variety of dining experiences, from traditional Scottish pubs serving hearty fare to fine dining restaurants. Seafood is a local specialty. You'll also find cafes and bakeries for lighter bites.
It is highly recommended to book tables in advance, especially for dinner or during peak tourist season, to avoid disappointment. Some restaurants may accept walk-ins, but reservations are preferred.
Most restaurants in St. Andrews are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs. You can usually find vegetarian and vegan options on menus, or chefs can often adapt dishes upon request. It's best to inquire when booking.
Beyond the clubhouses, the town of St. Andrews has numerous highly-rated restaurants. Popular choices include The Peat Inn (fine dining), The Adamson (modern Scottish), and various traditional pubs for a more casual experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The Swilcan Bridge on the Old Course is iconic. The 18th hole, the R&A clubhouse, and panoramic views from the Castle Course are also fantastic photo opportunities. The coastal scenery surrounding the links is breathtaking.
Yes, photography is generally permitted on the golf courses, but always be mindful of players and avoid disrupting the game. Some areas might have restrictions, so it's wise to check signage or ask staff.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive areas like golf courses and historic sites due to privacy and safety concerns. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, casting long shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views of the landscape.
The R&A World Golf Museum offers exhibits and artifacts that are great for photography. The historic town itself, with its ancient university buildings and cobbled streets, provides a rich backdrop for golf-related photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of St. Andrews Golf
Over the years, St. Andrews has hosted The Open Championship (the British Open) numerous times, solidifying its status as a premier major championship venue. The Swilcan Bridge and the Hell Bunker are just two of the many iconic features that golfers dream of experiencing. The town itself is steeped in golfing lore, with statues, plaques, and museums dedicated to the sport's rich heritage. The first women's golf club was also established here, highlighting St. Andrews' role in making the sport more inclusive.
Today, St. Andrews Links manages seven courses, offering a range of challenges and experiences. While the Old Course remains the most coveted tee time, the New Course, Jubilee Course, and Castle Course are also highly regarded and provide excellent tests of links golf. The Fairmont St Andrews also offers luxury golf experiences nearby. The commitment to preserving the historic character of the links while maintaining world-class playing conditions is central to the St. Andrews golfing experience.
Playing the St. Andrews Links Courses
Beyond the Old Course, the New Course offers a more traditional parkland feel within the links environment, while the Jubilee Course is known for its challenging layout and stunning coastal views. The Castle Course, perched on a dramatic cliffside, provides breathtaking vistas and a modern links challenge. For those seeking a less demanding experience or who couldn't secure a tee time on the more popular courses, the Strathtyrum Course and Balgove Course offer enjoyable rounds.
When planning your visit, consider your handicap and playing style. The St. Andrews Castle Course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and challenging holes, while the New Course is a classic links test. Many visitors opt for golf packages that can include accommodation and tee times across multiple courses, simplifying the booking process. Remember to book well in advance, especially for the Old Course, and be prepared for the unpredictable Scottish weather by packing layers and waterproofs.
The St. Andrews Experience Beyond Golf
History buffs will find plenty to explore, including the ruins of St. Andrews Castle and St. Andrews Cathedral, which offer glimpses into Scotland's past. The R&A World Golf Museum is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast, showcasing the sport's evolution and its connection to this historic town. For those looking for relaxation, the beautiful sandy beaches offer a chance to stroll and enjoy the coastal scenery.
The town also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a range of restaurants, pubs, and cafes catering to diverse tastes. From traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, there are options for every palate. Many of the venues, like the Highlands Room at St. Andrews Golf Club, are also popular for events and celebrations, highlighting the town's welcoming atmosphere for gatherings.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit