You can get onto the Old Course at St Andrews with planning, the right handicap, and a bit of flexibility, whether you enter the ballot, book through a trusted package, or try one of the visitor options at St Andrews Links.
This guide shows exactly how to book a tee time, what to expect when you play, and the key rules and tips you need to enjoy the Home of Golf.
Walk the same fairways that shaped the game and feel the history underfoot as you learn a short history of the Old Course and practical details about playing it.
Expect clear steps for booking, straightforward advice on handicaps and etiquette, and simple packing tips so your visit runs smoothly.
A Brief History of the Old Course at St Andrews
The Old Course has shaped modern golf for centuries.
You will learn why St Andrews is called the Home of Golf and which events and people made the course famous.
Why St Andrews is called the Home of Golf
Golf was played on the links at St Andrews from at least the 15th century, with records from 1552 showing townspeople had the right to play.
The course sits on common land and is run by the St Andrews Links Trust, which keeps it public and central to golf’s traditions.
You will find reminders of that long history across the site: the Old Pavilion overlooking the 1st tee and the Swilcan Bridge on the 18th hole.
Those landmarks draw visitors seeking old course tee times, the singles queue and the daily ballot experience that let ordinary players try the same turf as champions.
Key milestones: R&A founding, Open Championships, famous rounds
The Royal and Ancient Golf Club was formed at St Andrews in 1754 and later helped standardise rules and conduct championships.
The Old Course hosted The Open Championship first in 1873 and has held it more often than any other venue, with iconic championships in 1955, 1995 and 2000, among others.
Famous rounds include Tom Morris Sr and Jr in the 19th century and modern moments like Tiger Woods’ 2000 win.
Those events shaped booking systems: reservations, the Old Course ballot and the daily draw (also called the daily ballot or singles daily draw) became ways to balance visitor demand.
You may use the Swilcan Package, enter ballot results for start times, or queue as a single in the singles queue to get a round on the Old Course.
How to Book a Tee Time on the Old Course
You can try for a ballot draw, buy a guaranteed time through an authorised tour operator, or book directly with St Andrews Links Trust when slots are released.
Green fees change by season, so check rates and availability before you plan your trip.
Guaranteed tee times through authorised tour operators
Authorised tour operators buy blocks of Old Course tee times in advance.
They handle booking and payment and often include extras like caddies, transfers or nearby hotel stays. Use only operators listed by St Andrews Links to avoid scams.
Expect higher prices than standalone green fees because operators bundle services.
Confirm what’s included: start time, player names, refund policy and whether the booking is transferable.
Book early, especially in busy months and in years around big events like the 2027 Open Championship.
If you want certainty to play the Old Course, an authorised operator is the most reliable route. They can also advise on caddies and local rules before your round.
Booking through the St Andrews Links Trust website
Create an account on the St Andrews Links Trust site to see available tee times and enter online ballots. You can log in to book other courses, check the Old Course ballot status, and manage bookings from your dashboard.
The site releases certain visitor tee times well in advance and runs the official ballot for remaining slots. Pay online to secure confirmed times.
Read cancellation terms closely; small courses and the Old Course have specific rules for refunds and rescheduling.
Before your round, print or save your booking confirmation and bring ID. The Links staff may ask for confirmation details on arrival, so have them ready.
Green fee prices by season (2026 rates)
2026 green fees vary by season and type of booking. Typical bands are:
- Low season (winter): lowest rates, limited hours.
- Shoulder season (spring/autumn): moderate rates, more availability.
- High season (summer): highest demand and peak rates.
Authorised operator packages will cost more than the published St Andrews Links Trust green fee for the Old Course.
Ballot wins require you to pay the Trust’s green fee amount when confirming, which depends on the season and player category (visitor, junior, etc.).
Always check the St Andrews Links Trust website for exact 2026 rates and any special fees near major events like the 2027 Open Championship, when prices and availability can change.
| # | Stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enter the ballot | Apply online between 9 am – 5 pm on the day before your desired play date. |
| 2 | Provide your details | Submit player names, handicap details, and preferred tee time windows. |
| 3 | Draw is processed | The ballot draw runs automatically. Results are published the following morning. |
| 4 | Confirm & pay | If successful, confirm and pay within the stated short window. Missing the deadline releases your slot to others. |
| 5 | If unsuccessful | Your tee time is not guaranteed — but the ballot gives a real chance to play without booking months in advance. |
| 6 | Single-player draw | Individual daily draws run 9 am – 5 pm, one day before play. Enter in person at the Old Pavilion, Links Clubhouse, or Craigtoun Course Clubhouse. |
What to Expect on the Day: Arrival at the 18th Green
Playing the Old Course at St Andrews is more than just a round of golf; it is an experience filled with tradition, history, and unforgettable moments.
From arriving at the starter’s hut to walking off the 18th green, every part of the day offers a glimpse into why this course is considered one of the greatest in the world.
Checking in at the starter’s hut
Your Old Course experience begins before you hit the first shot.
On the day of your round, players should arrive with enough time to check in, warm up, and prepare for the unique challenge ahead.
The starter’s hut is where your tee time is confirmed, and the staff will provide any final instructions before you begin.
The atmosphere around the first tee is unlike most golf courses. You will see golfers from around the world preparing for their round, while the historic surroundings create a memorable sense of occasion.
Arriving early also gives you time to visit the practice facilities and get comfortable before stepping onto one of golf’s most famous courses.
Caddie costs, availability, and whether you should book one
A caddie is not required at the Old Course, but many visitors choose to hire one because of the course’s history, layout, and strategic challenges.
A knowledgeable caddie can help with club selection, reading the famous greens, and understanding the best way to approach difficult holes.
Caddie availability can be limited, especially during busy seasons, so booking in advance is recommended.
The cost varies depending on the season and service, but many golfers consider it a valuable part of the experience, particularly for a first visit.
The famous double greens and shared fairways are explained
One of the features that makes the Old Course unique is its double greens.
Several holes share the same putting surfaces, meaning golfers may be putting toward a green that serves two different holes.
These large greens require careful reading because the distance and direction of your putt can change dramatically.
The course also includes shared fairways, where multiple holes use the same areas of land.
This traditional design reflects the Old Course’s origins and creates a playing experience unlike modern golf courses.
Iconic Holes Every Visitor Should Know
The Old Course is home to some of golf’s most famous holes, each offering a unique challenge and story.
From the nerves of the opening tee shot to the legendary Road Hole and the dramatic finish at the Valley of Sin, these holes showcase the strategy, history, and character that make St Andrews a must play destination for golfers.
The 1st tee: the widest fairway in golf and the nerves that come with it
The opening hole of the Old Course is one of the most famous starting points in golf.
Although the fairway is extremely wide, many players still feel pressure because of the history surrounding the tee.
The challenge is not only about avoiding trouble but also about managing your emotions.
A good opening shot can set the tone for the entire round, while the open layout gives players a chance to begin confidently.
The Road Hole (17th) strategy for every handicap level
The 17th hole, known as the Road Hole, is one of the most recognised holes in world golf.
It is famous for its difficult tee shot, the nearby road and hotel, and the challenging green complex.
Players of all skill levels need a smart strategy here.
Aggressive shots can create opportunities, but mistakes can quickly lead to a difficult finish.
The key is understanding your own game and choosing the safest approach rather than simply trying to copy professional players.
The Valley of Sin (18th): How to finish your round
The 18th hole provides one of the most memorable finishes in golf.
The famous Valley of Sin in front of the green creates a final challenge that tests both confidence and accuracy.
A well positioned approach shot can lead to a rewarding finish, while an incorrect shot may leave a difficult recovery.
Walking across the final green toward the historic clubhouse is a moment many golfers remember for years.
Where to Stay and Eat Near the Old Course
Staying near the St Andrews Old Course makes the experience far more convenient and memorable.
The area around the course is compact, historic, and filled with classic Scottish charm, allowing golfers and visitors to fully immerse themselves in the home of golf.
From luxury hotels overlooking the sea to traditional guesthouses in the town centre, everything is within easy reach of the fairways, cafés, and iconic landmarks.
From the nerves of the opening tee shot to the legendary Road Hole and the dramatic finish at the Valley of Sin, these holes showcase the strategy, history, and character that make St Andrews a must play destination for golfers.
Hotels within walking distance of the 1st tee
Several well-known hotels are located just minutes from the first tee of the Old Course, making them ideal for golfers who want quick and stress-free access on their tee time morning.
The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa is the most iconic option, sitting right beside the course with direct views of the 17th Road Hole. It offers luxury rooms, spa facilities, and premium dining experiences, making it a top choice for serious golf travellers.
Closer to the town centre, Rusacks St Andrews provides a historic yet modern stay with rooftop views directly overlooking the Old Course. Many rooms allow guests to watch golfers finishing their rounds on the 18th green.
For a more boutique experience, Hotel Du Vin St Andrews offers stylish rooms within a short walking distance, combining comfort with easy access to both the course and the beach.
All these hotels allow visitors to reach the 1st tee within minutes, ensuring a relaxed start to their round.
Post-round dining and whisky recommendations
After completing a round at the Old Course, St Andrews offers a wide range of dining and whisky experiences to unwind and celebrate.
For fine dining, The Road Hole Restaurant inside the Old Course Hotel provides elegant dishes paired with panoramic golf course views. It is ideal for a celebratory dinner after a memorable round.
If you prefer a more casual but authentic experience, The Seafood Ristorante offers fresh Scottish seafood with views of West Sands Beach, perfect for relaxing after golf.
For traditional Scottish flavours, The Adamson in the town centre delivers modern European cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in a lively atmosphere.
No visit to Scotland is complete without whisky. Nearby bars like The Jigger Inn (located beside the Old Course Hotel) offer a wide selection of single malts. It’s a popular spot among golfers to enjoy a drink while watching players finish their rounds.
Whether you prefer fine dining or a cosy pub atmosphere, St Andrews provides the perfect way to end a day at the most famous golf course in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the St Andrews Old Course ballot work?
The Old Course ballot is a daily draw system that gives golfers a chance to secure a tee time when advance bookings are unavailable.
Players usually enter their names before the required deadline, and successful applicants are selected randomly.
The ballot is a popular option because demand for the Old Course is extremely high, especially during peak golfing months.
What handicap do you need to play the Old Course?
The handicap requirements for the Old Course are generally a maximum of 36 for men and women. Players may need to provide proof of handicap when booking or checking in.
The course welcomes golfers of different abilities, but having a good understanding of your game will make the experience more enjoyable.
How much does a caddie cost at St Andrews?
Caddie fees can change depending on the season and availability, but golfers should expect to pay an additional fee for caddie services along with a tip for good service.
Many visitors choose a caddie because their local knowledge can greatly improve the experience.
Can you play the Old Course on a Sunday?
Traditionally, the Old Course is closed to regular play on Sundays, allowing the course to rest and giving the public access to enjoy the historic links.
However, special events or changes to the schedule may affect availability, so visitors should always check the latest information before planning their trip.