18 holes, 72 par, 6,721 yards
Simply put, the oldest and most iconic golf course in the world. The Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker are recognizable names across the globe, yet the greatest feature of the Old Course is that despite its grand status, it remains a public golf course, open to all.
Rarely is the Old course ranked outside the top ten in the world, it’s a very special links, designed by Mother Nature. It is probable that golf was played here back in the 12th century, what is certain is that the Old Course is one of the oldest golf courses in the world.
It’s unlikely that the Old Course will feel familiar when you play it for the first time (except perhaps the 1st, 17th and 18th). Television tend to make the ground look very flat, but the humps, hollows and ripples in the fairways are much deeper when you get out onto the course, as indeed are the pot bunkers.
Playing the Old Course at St Andrews is an exceptional and unrivaled experience and the course should be on your list every time you venture near the town of St Andrews.
