Yes, you absolutely can play golf at St Andrews, and walking the same hallowed fairways as golf's greatest legends is more accessible than you might think. This isn't some ultra-exclusive private club, it's the public 'Home of Golf,' open to all who share a passion for the game. This guide will walk you through exactly how to secure that dream tee time on the Old Course and what to know about an unforgettable golfing pilgrimage to St Andrews.
Before we get into the details of booking, it’s really important to understand what St Andrews is. It's not one single golf club. The St Andrews Links is a collection of seven public golf courses, all managed by the St Andrews Links Trust, a charitable organization. This is fantastic news for you because it means the courses are maintained for the benefit of the game and for golfers from all over the world.
Here are the seven courses under the Trust's care:
While the Old Course is the primary goal for most visitors, you should absolutely consider playing at least one of the others. They offer a world-class links experience with far easier booking and provide a fantastic taste of Scottish golf.
Alright, this is the big question. Getting onto the Old Course requires some planning and often a bit of luck. Here are the four primary ways to make it happen, from the most common to the most guaranteed.
This is the most popular method for getting a time. The Ballot is essentially a daily lottery for tee times for the day after tomorrow. It's a tradition that goes back generations and preserves the public, accessible nature of the course.
If you're traveling solo, this is your best friend. In my opinion as a coach, it's one of the greatest traditions in golf and embodies the spirit of the game. The starter's hut at the Old Course reserves the right to pair single golfers into any groups of two or three that went out through the Ballot or Advance Booking.
While not a 100% guarantee, your chances as a single are extremely high if you're patient and willing to wait the day. It's an experience in itself.
This is the planning-ahead route for a guaranteed time. Each year, usually in late August/early September, the Links Trust opens up applications for a portion of their tee times for the following year.
This is the premium, hassle-free option. A number of recognized golf tour operators and local hotels receive an allocation of Old Course tee times each year. You book a package with them that includes your guaranteed tee time, accommodation, and sometimes other courses and transport.
This is certainly the most expensive route, but it completely removes the stress and uncertainty of the Ballot. If you're planning a trip for a special occasion or with a larger group that needs a confirmed time, this is an excellent path to consider.
This is non-negotiable for the Old Course. To maintain a good pace of play and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone, you must provide proof of an official handicap.
Failing to secure an Old Course time is no reason for disappointment. Getting a tee time on the New, Jubilee, Eden, Strathtyrum, or Castle Course is much more straightforward.
You can typically book these courses directly on the St Andrews Links website several days or even weeks in advance. My professional advice? Don't leave St Andrews without playing the New or Jubilee Course. They are truly spectacular links courses that would be the crown jewel of any other golf resort. Playing one of these masterpieces is a world-class experience in its own right.
You've got the time booked. Now, let's make sure the experience is perfect.
In short, playing golf at St Andrews is an achievable dream for any golfer. While getting on the Old Course requires some planning through methods like the daily ballot, other world-class courses on the property are readily accessible, guaranteeing you a memorable round at the Home of Golf.
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