St. Andrews Links - The Home of Golf

Course Overview

St. Andrews Links is the oldest golf course in the world, dating back to the 15th century. The Old Course features a unique double green system, where seven holes share greens with another hole. The course stretches along the North Sea coastline, offering stunning views and challenging winds. The layout includes 112 bunkers, each with its own name and history. The course measures 7,305 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par of 72.

Signature Holes

• The 17th hole, known as the Road Hole, is one of the most famous holes in golf, featuring a blind tee shot and the iconic Road Hole Bunker.
• The 18th hole, with its Swilcan Bridge, is one of the most photographed spots in golf.
• The 11th hole, called the High Hole, offers a spectacular view of the town and the North Sea.
• The 14th hole, named Long, is the longest par 5 on the course at 618 yards.
• The 1st and 18th holes share the largest double green on the course, measuring over 100 yards in length.

Course Condition

1. The course is maintained to championship standards year-round, with firm and fast fairways.
2. The greens are kept at a moderate speed to maintain the traditional character of the course.
3. The rough is typically kept at a manageable length, though it can be punishing in tournament conditions.
4. The bunkers are meticulously maintained, with their distinctive faces and deep sand.
5. The course drainage system is excellent, allowing play even after heavy rainfall.

Playing Experience

Playing the Old Course is a unique experience that combines history, tradition, and challenging golf. The course requires strategic thinking and careful club selection due to the ever-changing wind conditions. The double greens and shared fairways add an extra layer of complexity to the round. The course is walkable, and caddies are available to provide local knowledge and course history. The experience is enhanced by the surrounding town of St. Andrews, which is steeped in golf history.

Tournament History

• The Old Course has hosted The Open Championship 30 times, more than any other venue.
• The first Open Championship was held here in 1873, won by Tom Kidd.
• Recent champions include Tiger Woods (2000, 2005), Louis Oosthuizen (2010), and Zach Johnson (2015).
• The course has also hosted numerous other prestigious events, including the Walker Cup and the Dunhill Links Championship.
• The 150th Open Championship was held here in 2022, won by Cameron Smith.