St. Andrews Golf Travel

Where it all began, the timeless Old Course.

I'll help enhance the content while maintaining the original structure and incorporating these rich historical and experiential details:

For over 600 years, the ancient cobblestone streets of St Andrews have beckoned golfers from around the world to golf's spiritual home. Here, where the game's earliest rules were codified, the legendary Old Course stands as golf's ultimate sanctuary. Despite its grand status as the oldest and most iconic course in the world, it remarkably remains a public course open to all. Its massive double greens, strategic blind shots, and the iconic Swilcan Bridge have tested every great champion the game has known, creating a living museum of golf's most memorable moments.

The Old Course's celebrated neighbors offer their own distinctive challenges. The New Course, ironically now the oldest 'new' course in the world, was crafted by Old Tom Morris in 1895. Its undulating fairways and challenging greens provide a wonderfully pure links experience that perfectly complements its famous neighbor. The Jubilee, originally built in 1897 for ladies and beginners, has evolved into what many consider the most demanding test of all the town's courses following its 1988 transformation into a championship layout. The dramatic Castle Course, opened in 2008 as the seventh course at the Home of Golf, adds a spectacular modern complement to these historic links, offering breathtaking cliff-top views over St Andrews.

Just a short journey away, Kingsbarns Golf Links emerges from the coastline as one of golf's most stunning modern masterpieces. Stretching along 1.8 miles of picturesque North Sea coastline, each hole embraces the sea, while the staff's attentive service ensures the "Kingsbarns Experience" creates lifelong memories. Further north, the fearsome challenge of Carnoustie awaits. Known as 'Golf's Greatest Test' and dating back to the 16th century, this historic venue has hosted eight Open Championships

The region's hidden gems prove equally captivating. The historic Crail Golfing Society - the world's seventh oldest golf club - maintains its timeless appeal, while the sporting challenge of Elie, where a periscope from an old submarine helps players navigate their opening tee shot, offers a unique playing experience. Panmure Golf Club, having served as an Open Championship qualifying venue six times, presents its own distinctive challenge with tight fairways flanked by gorse, rough, and post-World War II Lodge Pine trees, all tested by an almost constant westerly wind.

Destination Experiences: Culture & Leisure

The heart of St Andrews beats strongest in its medieval town center, where ancient university quads and cathedral ruins create an atmosphere unchanged by time. Here, students and golfers share space in historic pubs and restaurants that line the narrow wynds and lanes. The Dunvegan and Jigger Inn have hosted golf's greatest champions and everyday players alike, their walls adorned with memories that tell the story of golf's rich history.

Beyond golf, St Andrews offers a wealth of experiences. Explore the ruins of the dramatic coastal cathedral, walk the expansive West Sands beach made famous in "Chariots of Fire," or tour the University of St Andrews, Scotland's oldest. The town's excellent restaurants range from Michelin-starred establishments to cozy cafes, while traditional pubs offer the perfect setting for reliving the day's round.

Practical Information

Location & Access:

• Edinburgh Airport (EDI) serves as the primary gateway with extensive international connections

• Perfect base location in the heart of St Andrews

Best Time to Visit:

• May through September offers optimal playing conditions and longest daylight hours

• July and August see peak activity around The Open Championship

• Spring and autumn provide excellent golf with fewer crowds

Planning Your Visit

Whether you're planning a dedicated golf retreat or combining play with Scotland's cultural attractions, our team specializes in crafting bespoke itineraries that maximize your experience. Contact us to discuss preferred tee times, accommodation options, and supplementary activities that will make your Scottish golf journey truly memorable.