St Andrews Done Right: A Golfer’s Guide to the Old Course and Beyond
Everyone who has picked up a golf club or watched golf on TV has seen that one famous links course with the iconic bridge on the 18th hole. Yes, we’re talking about the birthplace of golf, the Old Course at St Andrews. You don’t need to be a professional golfer or have insider connections to play this legendary course. Through an authorized provider, I can help you secure a guaranteed tee time, or walk you through what to expect if you’d rather take your chances in the lottery ballot. And beyond the Old Course, this region is packed with premier golf courses to round out your trip. Let me help you curate an exceptional St Andrews getaway.
Where to Stay in St Andrews
- Old Course Hotel: On the doorstep of St Andrews, where its famous greens meets the sea, the Old Course Hotel offers 175 elegant rooms in a 5-star setting wrapped in warm Scottish hospitality. It’s a place to relax, reconnect, and revel in the moment.
- Fairmont St Andrews: Offering a luxurious experience with dramatic cliff-top views of the North Sea. Guests can enjoy two world-class golf courses, the Fairmont Spa, and exquisite dining.
- Russacks St Andrews: Occupying an iconic 1800s building, the hotel is steeped in golfing history. Overlooking the picturesque town of St Andrews—and just a stone’s throw from the Old Course.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to St Andrews
Golf, golf and more golf. This is what St Andrews, and the surrounding area does best. Rich in history, it remains a golfer’s paradise.
Playing the Old Course
The only way to guarantee a tee time on the Old Course is through an authorized provider. These tee times are typically booked well in advance — 12 to 18 months on average — as they sell out quickly. If you’d rather not lock in a guaranteed time, or if they’re already sold out, you can try your luck through the Old Course Ballot. You enter your name 48 hours before your desired playing date, and you’ll find out that same day whether you’ve been selected. I’ve personally had success with the ballot, so don’t let it scare you away.
OTHER MUST PLAY COURSES IN AND AROUND ST ANDREWS
New Course at St Andrews: Located directly next to the Old Course, this “New” course was built by Old Tom Morris in 1895. It’s fittingly nicknamed the “oldest new course in the world.” Securing tee times here is much easier than at the Old Course, making it a must-play when you are in the area.
Kingsbarns
Located about 20 minutes south of St Andrews, Kingsbarns might be the most picturesque course in Scotland. Sometimes called the Pebble Beach of Scotland, this spectacular course offers many great holes along the North Sea. It’s also one of the courses played in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, which attracts famous golfers and celebrities every year.
Carnoustie
Rooted deep in golf history, this brute of a golf course might offer the toughest challenge of any in Scotland. Many Open Championships have been hosted here, including the infamous Jean van de Velde collapse on the 18th hole in 1999.
Dumbarnie
Located 30 minutes from St Andrews, this course opened in 2020 and is a spectacular addition to Scotland’s golf scene. Everything about this place is worthy of being included among historic favorites — from the course itself to the fantastic pro shop, restaurant, and caddies.
Castle Course
Just a short drive from the Old Course, Castle Course is owned by St Andrews and opened in 2008. Designed as a non-traditional links course, it provides a real challenge, especially with the wind blowing in from the North Sea. It offers spectacular views of the ocean and St Andrews Castle, hence the name.
Places to Eat & Drink in St Andrews
- The Criterion: This classic pub is an institution in St Andrews, loved by both locals and visitors alike. Try the famous steak and ale Cri Pie and they have an impressive selection of over 160 different scotch whiskeys
- The Dunvegan: A local pub rooted in golf history, The Dunvegan is located just steps from the 18th green at the Old Course. Have a seat at the bar, order a pint, and look around at the countless golf memorabilia on the walls. Who knows, you might even see some golf royalty in this place.
- Hams Hame Pub: A historic, classic pub located just steps away from the Old Course. Offering classic British pub fare such a steak pie, fish and chips and a great selection of Scotch whiskey.
- The Bridge at Russacks: located on the 2nd floor at The Russacks and overlooking the 18th fairway on the Old Course, this refined restaurant offers classic Mediterranean cuisine. Choose from their pastas, classic mains or famous sourdough pizzas – you cannot go wrong with this restaurant.
- Jigger Inn: Located in the Old Course Hotel, this historical pub dates back to the 1850s. Favorites include traditional cullen skink, fish and chips, and sticky toffee pudding for dessert. Sitting outside on the outdoor terrace, sipping on a pint and watching golfers hit their shots on the 17th hole at the Old Course is a very cool and unique experience.
