The Old Course
The Old Course at St Andrews is the oldest golf course in the world. Golf was first played here in the 15th century, and it’s unique with large double greens. Each of the seven greens has two holes with the hole numbers adding up to 18. At the 18th hole, you get to walk over the 700-year-old bridge. Strangely, the direction of play doesn’t matter. Not only this but there is a 10 ft deep ‘Hell Bunker’ - definitely one to look out for!
Every five years, the Old Course hosts The Open. The handicap limits are 24 for men and 36 for ladies. All golfers must provide a current handicap card or certificate at the time of play. In addition to this, be aware that playing is part of a golf tour. Golf tours are usually for a minimum of four nights and will combine the Old Course play with others in St Andrews. It’s worth noting that the course doesn’t open on Sundays.
You can get a scorecard off the internet, and it’s best to request a caddie in advance. Also, trolleys are only taken on the afternoon and buggies are only for special circumstances. You can also hire clubs and other equipment, so if you’ve forgotten your stuff - you can still play! Finally, check out these ten things to know if you’re playing at the Old Course and these frequently asked questions.
Other facilities at the Old Course
The Old Pavilion is actually a new facility. It’s located next to the first tee of the Old Course. There are toilets and light refreshments. In addition to this, there is a bag drop facility and information desk.
The St Andrews Links Clubhouse and Swilcan Lounge offer lockers, showers and drying facilities. The Swilcan Lounge provides views of the course and great food, including breakfast and drinks. Not only this but free parking can be found on site.
Finally, to make the most out of your golfing trip, choose one of the St Andrews Hotel and Guest House Association's residences. For example, the Old Course Hotel and Spa offers a five-star experience. The Kohler Water Spa is not one to miss!
Single Golfers – Hoping to play the Old Course
The Links Trust have announced that from the 12th March 2023 there will be a change to how single players are able to try and obtain a tee time on the Old Course. There will no longer be the traditional in-person overnight queueing system.
In its place there will be a digital solution known at the “Singles Daily Draw”. This will manage the allocation of any on-the day tee times which may become available by giving the golfers the change of securing a time by joining with existing groups of two or three pre-booked golfers.
Single players will be able to enter the draw between 9am and 5pm on the day before they wish to play at either The Old Pavilion or Links Clubhouse. A randomised draw will then take place at 5pm with golfers being notified by SMS message and email whether they have been allocated a tee time for the following day without the need to queue for lengthy periods.
