Golfing at St. Andrew's

My husband did several years ago. How many folks in your party? You must have an established handicapped within their requirements. Be prepared to play golf in front of a gallery of spectators. The weather is very unpredictable, so it's a risk when paying big bucks in advance. [Hubby's not home now, but I can share more specific info when he returns.] The course is much more beautiful in person than on TV.

It's much easier for singles, as you can line up VERY early in the morning to get a time later in the day.

For non-golfers, the course is closed on Sundays, and the public can walk it. They are many guides available with colorful presentations.

Fore!

There is a far less expensive way to “play St Andrews.” Not the same experience, but the Ladies Putting Assoc (The Himalayas) is right next to the main course and a great deal of fun. If you are serious golfers it may not do the trick, but for almost anyone else it is a fun and very inexpensive alternative.

https://www.standrewsputtingclub.com/

Have you found this website which has lots of information about playing golf at St Andrews. You may find it easier to get a game at one of the other golf courses rather than the Old Course.

https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/active/golf/st-andrews/

For the Old Course, my husband advised that you get online of the St. Andrews Trust . This is a lottery for two or more golfers, and he thinks it was was 48 hours in advance. Keep in mind that all golfers walk at the course , there are no motorized carts, unless you have a medical exemption, the definition of which is very strict. You can rent pushcarts. Caddies are not required, and run about 100 Pounds.

Thank you everyone for your responses. Much appreciated!

“Very early” meant 4:45 when my husband did this, but he was a single. However, he wasn’t first in line! I think he was either 4th or 6th and he was able to get on that afternoon. I don’t think he had a caddy and he REALLY regretted that. He was exhausted the time he was done. In all the excitement of being there, he played another one of the courses in the morning and that added to his exhaustion.

If anyone in your party wants to play the Himalayas, be aware there are no lockers or other facilities to hold your belongings. We played and enjoyed it very much, but I had to wear my (small) backpack the whole time. You don't have to wear golf shoes -- just no high heels or spikey heels.

I highly recommend the walking tour of the Old Course if you are seriously interested in professional golf. It's not much walking; mainly standing around listening to the guide tell which famous golfer hit which shot in which tournament. You may get a photo op on the iconic Swilcan Bridge. The tour ends at the official gift shop and I believe you get a discount coupon of some sort, so if you were planning to shop there wait until you've taken the tour.

The British Golf Museum is a great place to get in out of the weather. The exhibits are very well done and interesting for the general public, not just keen golfers. The cafeteria, which serves very good food and drink, is upstairs with a commanding view of the 1st/18th hole.

Hi there,

I am visiting Scotland from April 11th-14th and am a single golfer. Is there anyone else around St Andrews on the same dates that would be willing to enter the ballot as a 2?

Cheers!