St Andrews Old Course

The Old Course is widely considered the “Home of Golf.” Even if you don’t know a birdie from a bunker, it is an iconic place to visit simply for the atmosphere and the history. You’ll find it at the edge of the town centre in St Andrews, Fife (Postcode: KY16 9JB).

What to Expect and Enjoy
The course is actually a public park, which surprises many visitors. When golf isn’t being played, people walk their dogs across the fairways!

The Swilcan Bridge: This tiny stone bridge on the 18th fairway is one of the most famous landmarks in world sport. Almost everyone stops to take a photo here (though you should only do this when the course is closed to play, typically on Sundays).
The Road Hole: The 17th hole is famous for being one of the hardest in golf. You can stand on the pavement and watch players try to hit their balls over a corner of the Old Course Hotel.
Sunday Walks: Traditionally, the Old Course is closed for golf on Sundays. This is the best time to visit because the course becomes a massive public park where you can wander anywhere on the famous grass.
The Himalayas: Right next to the Old Course is the St Andrews Ladies’ Putting Club, known as “The Himalayas.” It is a world-famous, very hilly putting green that anyone can play on for a very small fee. It’s great fun for families and much harder than it looks!

Best For and Time Spent
Golf fans will be in heaven, but it’s also great for walkers and families who want a famous photo.

Duration: A walk around the perimeter takes about 45 minutes. If you play “The Himalayas” putting course, add another hour.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

Cost: It is free to walk near the course and look at the landmarks. Playing a round of golf here is very expensive and requires booking months (or even a year) in advance, or entering a daily lottery.
Parking: Parking in St Andrews can be a nightmare. Use the “Petheram Bridge” car park (which is large and often has space) and take the short walk toward the course.
Food: The British Golf Museum (now called the R&A World Golf Museum) has a café on the top floor with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the 1st tee—it’s a great spot for a coffee with a view.

Nearby and Combine-able Hits

West Sands Beach: This huge, famous beach (where the opening of Chariots of Fire was filmed) runs right alongside the golf course. It’s next on your list!
St Andrews Links Clubhouse: Even if you aren’t a member, you can go in for a meal or to browse the shop for souvenirs.

More Places Nearby

3 Day ‘Best of Fife’ trip Aberdour Castle Adventure Golf Island – Dunfermline Anstruther Pleasure Boat Trips Beach & Coastal Fun Best for a Rainy Day Broughty Castle Museum Burntisland Cairnie Fruit Farm and Maize Maze Cambo Gardens Cluny Activities (Clunys Clays) Craigluscar Activities Craigtoun Country Park Culross Deep Sea World – North Queensferry Devilla Forest Red Squirrel Trail Dunfermline Palace and Abbey East Sands Leisure Centre – St Andrews Falkland Palace and Garden Fife Coastal Path Hill of Tarvit Mansion History & Photography Gems Inchcolm Island Boat Trips Isle of May Kellie Castle and Garden Lochore Meadows Country Park Lomond Hills Regional Park Pittencrieff Park Ravenscraig Castle Relaxed & Scenic Outings Scotland’s Secret Nuclear Bunker St Andrews Aquarium St Andrews Castle Ruins St Bridget’s Kirk Tenpin (formerly Bowlplex) – Dunfermline The “Active & High Energy” Day The Forth Bridge The Scottish Deer Centre and Wildlife Park Walking, Cycling, and Riding in Fife West Sands Beach

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