The message of great, strategic golf course architecture is clear. The actual words used to describe those golf courses, however, are many. The Architecture Glossary column will examine more precise terms and concepts that one will find when exploring golf course architecture. Hopefully understanding these terms, and why certain architects employed them, will help you to better understand the golf courses you play…and maybe even improve your scores!
Today’s term is ‘Infinity Green’.
The game of golf has existed in some form since at least the 15th Century, and the concept of strategic golf course design only began poking its head out in earnest during the mid-19th Century. Many of the terms discussed in these posts still seem somewhat aged, despite being relatively young compared to the game itself. Let’s break the trend and look at an idea that is entirely modern:
Infinity greens.
The popularity of the infinity green, like the popularity of many things in the modern design scene, can be traced to course development magnate Mike Keiser. He acknowledges, however, that he first learned of the concept from Mark Parsinen, the founder of Kingsbarns and Castle Stuart among other courses. Keiser describes his education on the subject, during a visit to the latter course, within his book The Nature of The Game:
“According to his definition, an infinity green didn’t have to create a bold, straight line, as an infinity pool does, in order to count; he included any that had a small segment bleeding into the horizon,” Keiser writes. “To play a round checking them off, while noting how [Parsinen] and Gil Hanse had used them to frame the waters of the Moray Firth and the distant highlands landscape, was a case study in the art of integrating a course into its scenic environment.”
One of many infinity greens at Castle Stuart set against the backdrop of the Firth of Moray. (Photo Cred: Larry Lambrecht)
This idea — a green where the back of the putting surfaces melds seamlessly into views that stretch for miles — has become popular parlance in design circles, taking its name, as alluded above, from the extravagant “infinity pools” of the Hollywood hills.
Keiser is a keen proponent of strategic value in the golf course design, however he is also a businessman. He famously makes suggestions to designers under his employ regarding the wants of “retail golfers,” or those who might not fully appreciate a course from the strategic perspective. The best way to please those golfers, he argues, and indeed amplify the value of a strategically-strong golf course, is to incorporate beautiful scenery. Infinity greens do so by creating a picturesque backdrop while remaining natural in appearance.
Keiser was so committed to the idea at Cabot Links that he told designer Rod Whitman he would reward the architect and his wife a trip to Hawaii…if there were 12 infinity greens. Whitman obliged.
No. 14 exemplifies how the architect can strategically lay out holes to create such greens. This is the shortest par three at Cabot Links, playing about 100 yards directly toward the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Typically, a downhill tee shot like this does not set up well for an infinity green, however Whitman placed the tee boxes perfectly so that the back of the green blocks views to the rough and beach behind it. Instead, players see ocean all the way, with the added visual stimulation of waves appearing to travel right into the back of the green.
Creating infinity greens was a priority for Cabot Cape Breton co-developer Mike Keiser. No. 14 is one of 12 he counts within Rod Whitman's design. (Photo Cred: Cabot Cape Breton Resort)
Granted, not all golf courses are blessed with seaside real estate. That doesn’t mean that infinity greens can’t exist. There’s only one feature more boundless than the ocean: the sky. Keiser, as a founding member at Sand Hills Golf Club, may not have realized it when he approached the first green at the inland club, but Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw had created the same effect.
Players will likely be hitting their third shot uphill during this opening par five, with just a front tongue of green obvious from the ground. The flag creates an almost two-dimensional visual, seeming to sit on a hard line drawn across the horizon in front of you. This is part of the challenge, of course; to know and, more importantly, to trust your distance because the green seems to run forever into the Nebraska sky behind it. Coore and Crenshaw provide some help, so that you at least know how wide the green is: A dune to the left and a bunker to the right frame the target. The distance? That’s on you.
Infinity greens are primarily an aesthetic benefit of design, to be sure. However examples such as the opener at Sand Hills demonstrate the strategic benefits of these putting surfaces. They are a confidence test, asking players to trust their yardage when looking at a target that confuses the senses.
One worthwhile question: Why is the infinity green concept “new”? Why does it seem like developers such as Keiser and Parsinen are the first to implement these jaw-dropping views into their properties? Why didn’t the men who laid out the links of old offer players similar eye candy?
If you’re the old codger who insists golf courses built a hundred-plus years ago are inherently better, you need to at least admit that modern technology has made course construction easier. Traditional links courses, for their seaside location, often don’t offer any views of the sea, which is blocked out by the dunes surrounding the fairways. The infamous windy conditions of such locations made exposed green sites more difficult to maintain. Erosion from tidal surges was a challenge as well. Modern architects and developers have the means to create and protect greens such as those seen at Castle Stuart’s No 13.
No. 15 "Little Eye" would have been difficult to maintain at the time of the club's creation, but it served as a focal point during the 2023 Open Championship. From the tee, the green melds with the sky. (Photo Cred: Royal Liverpool Golf Club)
That said, modern revisionists have considered the concept in recent renovations. The new No. 15 at Royal Liverpool received constant attention throughout the recent Open, as players considered the short shot to a perched putting surface that, like the first at Sand Hills, became one with the sky. One potential difference worth considering here is that, even when clubs are able to maintain such features, the links wind can still make such unprotected shots knee-knockers for professionals and amateurs alike. The jury remains out on whether the concept should be considered successful.
No. 11 at the Fishers Island Club is a splendid infinity green...even if Raynor himself didn't call it that. (Photo Cred: P.J. Koenig)
Despite its recent surge in popularity, it’s worth wondering whether the idea of the infinity green can truly be considered “new.” The name is certainly new, but a number of Golden Age architects practiced similar techniques frequently within their own catalogs. Donald Ross often incorporated uphill approach shots and framed the green against the sky, intimidating players in the process. Seth Raynor set a number of his fantastic par threes against scenic backgrounds, such as the idyllic Eden hole at Fishers Island, which is backed by the scenic backdrop of a harbor in Long Island Sound.
Architects, and especially developers, should always be wary of prioritizing aesthetic elements over strategic ones when creating a new golf course. If those features can add just a smidge of strategic consideration, however, they can explode a course from worth-a-look to world-class.
Scotland's Modern Marvels: New Build Golf Courses That Are Redefining the Home of Golf Scotland might be revered as golf's ancient homeland, but the country's most exciting chapter may well be its modern one. Contrary to popular belief that all of Scotland's great golf was built centuries ago, the past 35 years have witnessed a remarkable renaissance that has produced multiple world top 100 courses and redefined what modern Scottish golf can achieve. Bottom Line: Scotland's new build golf courses since 1990 have created four world top 100 courses and over 30 quality developments, proving that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully in golf's birthplace. Scotland's Surprising Modern Golf Renaissance The prevailing wisdom suggests that Scotland's golden age of golf course construction occurred between 1900 and 1940, with little of significance happening thereafter. This perception couldn't be further from the truth. Since 1990, Scotland has experienced a second golden age of golf development that has fundamentally changed the landscape of Scottish golf. Research reveals that over 30 new golf courses have been constructed across Scotland in the past three decades, with several achieving world recognition. The period from 1990 onwards represents more than just quantity – it's about quality and innovation. These new builds have had to prove themselves worthy of standing alongside courses like St Andrews and Muirfield, and remarkably, several have succeeded spectacularly. The Elite Four - World Top 100 New Builds Kingsbarns: The Trailblazer That Started It All Currently ranked 43rd in the world and 7th in Scotland, Kingsbarns stands as the crowning achievement of Scotland's new build movement. This Kyle Phillips design, developed with significant input from owner Mark Parson, opened in the 1990s and immediately announced that modern Scottish golf could compete on the world stage. Kingsbarns succeeded because it understood its audience. Positioned as a premium experience for American tourists, the course needed to deliver both spectacular golf and playability. The elegant routing avoids the elevation changes that plague some new builds, creating a seamless journey through manufactured links land that feels entirely natural. The course's success lies in its restraint – it doesn't try to out-do the classics but instead creates its own identity within the Scottish golf tradition. For travelling golfers, Kingsbarns offers the perfect introduction to Scotland's new build philosophy: respectful of tradition whilst embracing innovation. Ardfin: The Engineering Marvel At 44th in the world, Ardfin represents perhaps the most audacious golf course construction project in modern Scottish history. Located on a remote island off the west coast, this Bob Harrison design required importing sand from Northern Ireland because the island had no natural sand deposits. The logistical challenges were extraordinary. Every piece of equipment and material had to be barged to the island, as the ferry couldn't handle the construction loads. The result is a course that feels like a traditional links but exists in a landscape where such a course should be impossible. The backdrop at Ardfin is unparalleled – an amazing tapestry of Scottish coastline that makes every hole a photographic opportunity. However, the course is notably difficult, presenting a stern test that rewards precision and punishes wayward shots. The construction team's determination to overcome the extreme logistical challenges has created one of Scotland's most spectacular golfing experiences. Castle Stewart (Cabot Highlands): Routing Genius 54th globally and 9th in Scotland, Cabot Highlands Castle Stewart showcases how intelligent routing can overcome challenging terrain. This Mark Parson and Gil Hanse collaboration faces the significant challenge of two distinct tiers separated by substantial elevation changes. The long walk between the lower and upper tiers on the back nine represents the course's only significant weakness, but the quality of the golf holes more than compensates. The routing demonstrates how modern architects can work with, rather than against, Scotland's challenging topography. Under the Cabot Highlands banner, Castle Stewart benefits from enhanced conditioning and service standards. The course represents a masterclass in how to handle severe terrain whilst maintaining strategic interest and playability. Trump International: Spectacular but Controversial 77th in the world and 11th in Scotland, Trump International Aberdeen showcases Martin Hawtree's routing brilliance on some of the most severe duneland in Scotland. The spectacular amphitheatre settings create dramatic elevated tee shots that rival anything in world golf. However, the course divides opinion due to Hawtree's distinctive green design philosophy. His "clamshell" greens, whilst strategically sound, lack the natural integration that characterises the greatest Scottish courses. The abrupt transitions from fairway to green, rather than seamless tie-ins, represent a missed opportunity on otherwise brilliant golf holes. The front nine at Trump International ranks among the finest in modern Scottish golf, whilst the back nine's routing through massive dunes creates an epic but exhausting journey. Rumoured improvements to the 10th hole and green complexes could elevate this course significantly. The Construction Challenges That Define Scottish New Builds Building golf courses in Scotland presents unique challenges that distinguish these projects from developments elsewhere. Environmental constraints top the list, with strict planning requirements that can delay projects for years. The proposed Coul Links project by Coore & Crenshaw exemplifies these challenges, having faced environmental objections despite potentially providing better land stewardship than current neglect. Logistical nightmares are common, particularly for remote locations. Ardfin's barge-dependent construction represents an extreme example, but even accessible sites face challenges with Scotland's variable weather and challenging terrain. Agronomy presents ongoing challenges, with harsh Scottish winters testing maintenance programmes. Many new builds have required several years to achieve optimal conditioning, with courses like Dumbarnie recently completing significant improvements to address early growing-in challenges. Weather considerations affect both construction and play. Scotland's climate demands robust design that can handle high winds, driving rain, and rapid weather changes. Successful new builds integrate these challenges into their strategic design rather than fighting against them. Top Tier GB&I Top 100 Ranked Links Courses Scotland's new build movement extends far beyond the world-ranked courses, with quality developments across diverse landscapes. Skibo Castle represents the ultra-private end of the spectrum, potentially the hardest tee time in Scotland with its international membership flying in via private jet. Renaissance Club in East Lothian demonstrates how new builds can create compelling membership experiences, with their community-focused approach generating strong member loyalty and impressive group travel programmes. The Machrie Another Place on the island of Islay showcases how heritage properties can be transformed through sensitive redevelopment. This boutique hotel and golf course combination offers an exceptional Scottish island experience, with the redesigned course complementing one of Scotland's finest hospitality offerings. Dumbarnie represents the challenge and eventual reward of building in a great location on non-traditional links land. Clive Clark's design has overcome initial growing difficulties to emerge as a quality addition to Scotland's golf landscape, demonstrating how persistence and proper investment can overcome early setbacks. Regional diversity spans from island locations like Ardfin to inland gems like Dumbarnie, showcasing Scottish golf's geographical breadth. The northeast around Aberdeen has seen particular activity, with multiple developments taking advantage of the oil industry's prosperity. Accessibility varies dramatically, from completely private clubs to public access facilities. This spectrum ensures that Scotland's new build revolution benefits golfers across different budgets and connection levels. Further Scottish Golf Developments Scotland's new build story continues evolving, with several major projects set to open or seeking approval. Coul Links, the proposed Coore & Crenshaw design near Dornoch, represents potentially the most significant addition to Scottish golf since Kingsbarns. The environmental debate surrounding this project highlights the ongoing tension between golf development and conservation. The battle between Trump International Scotland’s New Course and Cabot Highlands' Old Petty course promises to be one of golf's most compelling rivalries. Trump International Scotland New Course, featuring routing by Christian Lundin, tackles diverse terrain from wetlands to spectacular coastal dunes. Early reports suggest it may exceed even the original Trump International course. *Trump New has debuted at 24 in Scotland in the 2026 ranking.* Meanwhile, Old Petty represents Tom Doak's vision for Scottish golf, with Clyde Johnson's finishing touches promising the subtle brilliance that characterises the best modern architecture. The course is being described as "high IQ golf" that rewards strategic thinking over power. Update *Old Petty has debuted at 20 in Scotland in the 2026 ranking.* Planning Your Scottish New Build Golf Adventure For golfers planning to experience Scotland's modern marvels, strategic itinerary planning is essential. The new builds complement rather than compete with traditional courses, offering different perspectives on Scottish golf's evolution. Accessibility considerations vary enormously, from Kingsbarns' visitor-friendly approach to Skibo Castle's ultra-exclusive membership. Renaissance Club and Castle Stewart offer middle-ground options with member privileges available through various arrangements. Seasonal timing affects both conditioning and availability. Late spring through early autumn provides optimal conditions, though Scotland's new builds generally offer better winter golf than many traditional courses due to superior drainage and maintenance capabilities. Transportation logistics require careful planning, particularly for remote locations like Ardfin. However, the journey often becomes part of the experience, with spectacular Scottish scenery enhancing the golf adventure. The new build revolution has proved that Scotland's golf story is far from finished. These modern marvels don't replace the ancient links but rather expand the Scottish golf experience, offering fresh perspectives on what makes golf in Scotland uniquely special. For the discerning golf traveller, Scotland's new builds represent not just excellent golf, but the continuing evolution of the game in its homeland. Ready to experience Scotland's new build revolution? Contact our golf travel specialists to craft the perfect modern Scottish golf adventure, combining world-class new courses with timeless traditional links.
Every October, three of Scotland's most revered links courses host one of golf's most unique events. The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship brings together world-class professionals and celebrity amateurs for four days of links golf at its finest, played across the Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie Championship Course, and Kingsbarns Golf Links. Whether visiting during tournament week to witness this prestigious Scottish golf tournament or planning a pilgrimage to play these legendary venues, this comprehensive guide provides everything international golfers need to experience Scottish links golf at the highest level. The Alfred Dunhill Links - Scotland's Unmissable Golf Event Tournament Format: The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship stands apart from typical professional events through its distinctive pro-am format. Each team pairs one professional with one amateur, playing three different courses over three days before the 54-hole cut. The top 60 professionals and leading 20 pro-am teams advance to Sunday's final round at St Andrews. The event typically runs from early to mid-October each year, with the 2025 edition taking place October 2-5. For the latest odds on the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, visit Betway. Why This Event Matters: Only professional championship played annually on the Old Course at St Andrews Three world-class links in rotation - effectively three tournaments in one week Celebrity amateur field adds glamour alongside serious competitive golf Spectator access to legendary courses often difficult to see up close £5 million purse attracts top DP World Tour talent and major champions Tournament History & Heritage Alfred Dunhill's connection with St Andrews spans four decades, beginning with the Alfred Dunhill Cup in 1985. That original tournament ran as a team match-play event featuring 16 nations competing at the Old Course. Australia won the inaugural championship, defeating the United States in the final with a team featuring David Graham, Graham Marsh, and Greg Norman. The Cup produced memorable moments over its 16-year run, including Curtis Strange's record-breaking 62 at the Old Course in 1987 and South Africa's back-to-back victories in 1997-1998 with the same trio of Ernie Els, David Frost, and Retief Goosen. When the World Cup of Golf received enhanced status through the World Golf Championships in 2000, the team format became less viable. The Alfred Dunhill Cup concluded after the 2000 championship, having established itself as one of golf's premier international team events. Rather than disappear entirely, Alfred Dunhill's St Andrews legacy evolved into something equally special. The Modern Championship Era The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship launched in 2001, transforming from team competition to celebrity pro-am whilst maintaining the glamour and prestige of its predecessor. The new format expanded across three legendary Scottish links - Old Course St Andrews, Carnoustie Championship, and the newly-opened Kingsbarns - creating a unique rotation that showcases Scotland's links golf diversity. The tournament has been a DP World Tour fixture since inception. Tyrrell Hatton holds the record with four victories (2016, 2017, 2024, and one more), making him the Championship's greatest champion. His 2024 victory came via dramatic final-hole birdie on the 18th at St Andrews, defeating Nicolas Colsaerts by a single stroke. Past champions include Padraig Harrington, Stephen Gallacher, Danny Willett, and Martin Kaymer, who famously birdied the treacherous Road Hole 17th en route to his 2010 victory. The Championship was cancelled only once in its history - 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic - but returned strongly in 2021 and continues to attract world-class fields annually. The format based on the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has proven hugely successful, creating a unique blend of serious professional competition alongside celebrity entertainment that draws galleries from around the world. Championship Courses: Three Scottish Legends St Andrews Links (Old Course) The Old Course needs little introduction - golf's spiritual home and the world's most famous links. Dating to the 15th century, this public course has hosted 30 Open Championships, more than any venue worldwide. The routing follows the classic out-and-back design with seven massive double greens shared by holes going out and coming home. What makes St Andrews golf special isn't immediate visual drama but strategic subtlety revealed over multiple rounds. Hidden pot bunkers, undulating fairways deeper than television suggests, and infinite playing options depending on wind direction create the ultimate thinking golfer's course. The 17th Road Hole ranks among golf's most iconic and treacherous par fours. Carnoustie Golf Links (Championship) Carnoustie earns its "Car-nasty" nickname honestly. This is links golf at its most demanding, widely considered the toughest course on the Open rota. The Carnoustie golf course has hosted eight Open Championships, three Senior Opens, and two Women's Opens. Ben Hogan's 1953 victory in his only Open appearance cemented Carnoustie's legendary status. The snaking Barry Burn creates drama throughout, most notably on the finishing holes where it must be crossed five times. The back nine particularly separates champions from pretenders, featuring brutal par fours at holes 14-18. The 245-yard 16th par three played into the wind challenges even the world's best - Tom Watson called it the hardest par three in golf. Kingsbarns Golf Links The modern masterpiece of the trio, Kingsbarns golf course opened in 2000 on 1.8 miles of stunning North Sea coastline. American architect Kyle Phillips transformed flat farmland into what appears a centuries-old links through spectacular earthmoving and design. Unlike many Scottish links, the sea remains visible from virtually every hole, creating photography-worthy vistas throughout. Kingsbarns offers more generous fairways than its Championship companions whilst maintaining strategic interest. The par-five 12th hugging the coastline and the dramatic par-three 15th playing over rocks and waves to a clifftop green exemplify Kyle Phillips' brilliant design work. Hosted the 2017 Women's British Open. Championship Experience: Tournament Week Spectating the Dunhill Links Tournament week transforms the region into a golf festival. Here's what you need to know: Grounds passes provide access to all three venues (approximately £30-50/€35-60/$40-67 per day depending on day) Thursday-Friday: Play across three courses simultaneously - strategic planning required to catch favourite players Saturday: 54-hole cut concentrates field Sunday: Final round at Old Course provides championship conclusion with galleries lining fairways VIP hospitality packages available through tournament website offering exclusive viewing, dining, and player access opportunities Getting There The tournament is easily accessible from Scotland's major airports: Edinburgh Airport: 90 minutes to St Andrews (primary gateway) Glasgow Airport: 2 hours to St Andrews Dundee Airport: 30 minutes to St Andrews, 15 minutes to Carnoustie Rental car recommended for flexibility between venues. Direct train service available from Edinburgh to Leuchars (5 miles from St Andrews) with taxi connections. Celebrity Amateur Entertainment The pro-am format pairs professionals with celebrities from sport, entertainment, and business. Past participants include: Film & TV: Michael Douglas, Samuel L. Jackson, Hugh Grant, Jamie Dornan, Kevin Costner Music: Justin Timberlake, Huey Lewis, Ronan Keating, Bon Jovi's Tico Torres, Keane's Tom Chaplin, Linkin Park's Dave Farrell Sports Legends: Nigel Mansell, Ian Botham, Gary Lineker, Boris Becker, Michael Phelps, Shane Warne, Rory McIlroy's father Gerry Celebrity pairings announced ahead of tournament - plan spectating around favourite personalities. The team competition adds extra dimension, with amateur-professional partnerships competing for separate honours alongside the individual professional championship. Practical Tournament Attendance Transport & Parking: Park-and-ride systems operate from Leuchars and surrounding areas Public transport enhanced during tournament week Walking between venues impractical - commit to one course daily or use organised transport between sites What to Bring: Weather preparation crucial - October Scottish weather unpredictable Waterproofs, warm layers, comfortable walking shoes essential Food and beverage available on-site but bringing snacks recommended Etiquette: Photography permitted but no camera clicks during swings Respect player space, follow marshal instructions Mobile phones on silent Golf Nearby During Tournament Week St Andrews New Course - £150 (€175/$200) Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1895, the New Course offers tighter, more defined holes than its famous neighbour. Locals often prefer it for these very characteristics. Excellent conditioning and significantly easier access make this an outstanding alternative when playing St Andrews golf courses. St Andrews Jubilee Course - £150 (€175/$200) Donald Steel's 1988 redesign transformed this into a championship-calibre test. Elevated tees provide spectacular views across St Andrews Bay. The par-three collection ranks among Scotland's finest. St Andrews Castle Course - £180 (€210/$240) David McLay Kidd's clifftop design opened in 2008. Dramatic seaside holes and clever mounding create a modern links feel. The par-three 17th across a coastal ravine sticks in memory long after the round. Carnoustie Burnside Course - £85 (€100/$115) Character-filled second course where Ben Hogan qualified for his 1953 Open victory. Excellent par threes and significantly less intimidating than the Championship layout whilst maintaining quality. Fife's Culinary Scene Premium Dining Experiences Haar showcases chef Dean Banks' three-AA-Rosette modern Scottish cuisine emphasising local seafood. Tasting menu approximately £90 (€105/$120) per person. The Road Hole Restaurant at Old Course Hotel offers sprawling Old Course views alongside Scottish grills and seafood, approximately £80-100 (€95-120/$110-135). The Seafood Ristorante occupies prime West Sands location in distinctive glass structure. Fresh local catch prepared simply, approximately £60-80 (€70-95/$85-110). The Peat Inn, seven miles outside town, provides Michelin-quality fine dining in intimate setting, approximately £85 (€100/$115) for set menu. Local Specialities & Regional Cuisine Scottish produce shines throughout Fife. Fresh seafood from local boats - langoustines, scallops, oysters, and lobster appear on most quality menus. Scottish beef, particularly Aberdeenshire cattle, ranks among world's finest. Game in season includes venison, grouse, and pheasant. Must-try dishes: Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup) Haggis (more delicious than reputation suggests) Arbroath smokies (smoked haddock) Cranachan (traditional dessert with raspberries, cream, oats, whisky) Post-Round Drinking Culture Scottish pub culture embraces golfers naturally. The Criterion, Central Bar, and Jigger Inn (by Old Course) provide traditional atmosphere. Expect hearty pub food, extensive whisky selections, and friendly locals eager to discuss your round. Tom Morris Bar & Grill at St Andrews Links Clubhouse offers course views and quality dining. Mitchell's Deli provides excellent all-day option for breakfast through dinner. Prices approximately £15-25 (€18-30/$20-35) per person for casual dining. Budget Dining & Practical Planning Forgan's delivers reliable Scottish fare in historic former golf club factory, approximately £20-30 (€24-35/$27-40). Tailend fish and chips ranks among Scotland's finest traditional takeaway. Zizzi's and Bella Italia provide familiar chain options when needed. Supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury's) offer breakfast supplies and packed lunch options for early tee times. Many B&Bs include substantial Scottish breakfast. Explore Beyond Golf Cultural Attractions St Andrews University, founded 1413, Scotland's oldest, creates vibrant academic atmosphere. Campus architecture spectacular, public can explore grounds. St Andrews Castle ruins dramatically positioned on coastal headland. Underground siege tunnels and bottle dungeon provide medieval history immersion. St Andrews Cathedral, once Scotland's largest church, offers atmospheric ruins and tower climb with panoramic views. British Golf Museum traces game's history through comprehensive exhibits. Entry approximately £10 (€12/$13). Natural Beauty & Outdoor Activities West Sands Beach extends two miles of golden sand backed by dunes. Famous from Chariots of Fire opening scenes. Fife Coastal Path provides spectacular walking - St Andrews to Crail section particularly scenic. East Neuk fishing villages (Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, Elie) showcase traditional Scottish coastal life. Harbour walks, fresh seafood, and charming architecture reward exploration. Approximately 30-45 minutes drive from St Andrews. Whisky & Distillery Experiences Kingsbarns Distillery offers tours and tastings in converted 18th-century farm steading. Specialises in single malt and Darnley's Gin. Tours approximately £12-35 (€14-40/$16-47) depending on experience level. Book ahead during summer. Glenrothes and other Speyside distilleries accessible day trips (90 minutes). Edinburgh offers numerous city-centre whisky experiences if combining with capital visit. Activities for Non-Golfing Partners St Andrews provides excellent shopping along Market Street and South Street. Mixture of independent boutiques, golf shops, and outdoor gear specialists. Spa treatments available at Old Course Hotel and Fairmont St Andrews. Edinburgh day trip easily managed (90-minute drive). Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, and excellent museums provide full-day entertainment. Glasgow offers alternative city experience with art galleries, shopping, and vibrant music scene (2 hours). Frequently Asked Questions When is the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship held? The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship takes place annually in early October. The 2025 tournament runs October 2-5, with Thursday-Saturday rounds rotating across all three courses and Sunday's final round at St Andrews Old Course. Can I play the Old Course during tournament week? The championship courses (Old Course, Carnoustie, Kingsbarns) close for tournament preparation and play during the event week. However, St Andrews New Course, Jubilee Course, Castle Course, and Carnoustie Burnside Course remain open for visitor play, providing excellent alternatives. What are the three courses in the Dunhill Links rotation? The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship rotates across three legendary Scottish links: the Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie Championship Course, and Kingsbarns Golf Links. Players compete on all three venues before the cut, with the final round played at St Andrews. How much are tickets to the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship? Daily grounds passes cost approximately £30-50 (€35-60/$40-67) depending on the day. Thursday-Saturday provide access to all three venues, while Sunday's final round takes place exclusively at St Andrews. VIP hospitality packages available through the official tournament website. Plan Your Alfred Dunhill Links Championship Experience The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship offers a unique opportunity to experience Scotland golf at its finest across three of the world's most celebrated links courses. Whether spectating during tournament week or planning your own rounds on these legendary layouts, the region provides unmatched links golf combined with rich Scottish culture, outstanding dining, and warm hospitality. Explore the complete St Andrews Old Course, Carnoustie Championship, and Kingsbarns Golf Links listings on Top100GolfCourses.com to begin planning your Scottish golf adventure. From booking strategies to course insights, everything you need to make your pilgrimage to golf's spiritual home awaits.
The purpose of the Review of The Month feature is twofold. Top100GolfCourses has always aimed to salute and encourage those who are putting admirable effort into reviewing the world’s great golf courses. Moving forward, we are also looking to learn from these experts! We’ll be chatting with the month’s star authors and discussing topics such as golf in their area, what they like to see in a strong course review, and of course dig a little deeper into their own winning review. September 2023’s Review of The Month comes from Andrew Lilley, who has found peace and admiration with modern, big-name links projects, in part thanks to his round at Kingsbarns Golf Links. Kyle Phillips has been a tad more active in the UK than most modern American designers. Have you had the opportunity to play any of his courses aside from Kingsbarns? Or perhaps you can compare to other modern links from the likes of Gil Hanse or Tom Doak? I've only been playing a couple of years and most of my time has been spent at the old classics so Kingsbarns is the only Kyle Phillips design I've played so far. Ideally I'd say come back to me with this question once I've had the chance to play the likes of St Patrick's Links, Castle Stuart and Trump Aberdeen, which occupy similar positions in the rankings to Kingsbarns so I can offer a more meaningful comparison, but I have played Renaissance Club and the Glashedy course at Ballyliffin to be able to provide a comparison of sorts amongst the newer courses. With all the modern machinery available these days, I think there must be temptation for architects and shapers to move whatever earth they need to make the course they imagine but that also needs to be balanced with the existing landscape so it doesn't look completely artificial. Therefore I'd say the original location is key when constructing a modern course and for me that's the biggest thing that Kingsbarns has over the other two courses I mentioned. I know the sea isn't an architectural concept but the setting does play a decent part in my opinion of a golf course and whilst Renaissance does have the magnificent tenth on the Firth of Forth and there are glimpses of Pollan Bay at various points during the round at Ballyliffin, there is nothing like the sea views and shoreline holes on offer at Kingsbarns. Also from a purely architectural point of view, I'd say that whilst Renaissance and the Glashedy do have some wonderful holes and architectural features, everything is just on a higher level at Kingsbarns…the variety of the holes, strategy, green complexes and bunkering, which if you go solely off the rankings is what you'd expect. Photo credit: Larry Lambrecht A common complaint I hear regarding well-renowned links courses is that the closing hole doesn't quite live up to the thrill of the fill. Are there any links clubs that absolutely deliver on the final hole, which you'd cite for comparison? Yes, absolutely there are. St Andrews Old, Royal County Down, Muirfield and Royal Birkdale I can name straight away and there will probably be a few more if I thought about it. The closing holes at the courses I've named are great for different reasons but are all wonderful on an architectural level too. Leaving all the history aside, No. 18 on the Old Course is a fantastic hole in its own right…the chance to bomb driver to get as close as possible but with out of bounds lurking all down the right. RCD’s closer is just a brute of a hole, Muirfield's is very similar and then you have the potential birdie opportunity that the No. 18 at Royal Birkdale presents. The question did make me think though about why many courses do have that weaker finishing hole. The only reason I can think of is those older courses that predominantly have an out and in routing, the likes of St Andrews, North Berwick and my home club of Silloth on Solway for example, all start where the flat land that's ideal for a clubhouse was located and allowed for easy access in days gone by before heading out into the more interesting land. That's where my frustration with No. 18 at Kingsbarns comes from. I can understand not being able to move masses of earth 100-plus years ago but now a site can be changed completely in a day so the opportunity was surely there to make a great finishing hole. You mention the common perception held of modern links, that they're built to appeal to big spenders and golf travelers. Any thoughts on how such a project might angle for the "charm" that such a links as Elie or Brora et al provide? To be honest, I think the modern links courses should celebrate what they are. I've not played Elie yet (it's on the list albeit with many many others) but I have been to Brora and the charm of those type of courses for me comes from their sheer simplicity and the thought that when those courses were laid out, the architects will have pegged out some green sites, dug out a hole and said to golfers “off you go.” Unless an architect comes across a truly spectacular piece of land, then I can't see any modern links ever going down that path nor do I think they should. Another gripe I have with Kingsbarns is in a similar vein, how the clubhouse is traditional looking, both inside and out. My thought is that it's a modern course so have a modern clubhouse, don't try to have something from 100 years ago which then feels out of place. Now that you're a celebrated "Review of The Month" winner, let us know what factors you appreciate in a strong golf course review! Hmmm, that's a tough one as I tend not to read many reviews before I play somewhere, I prefer to go to a course relatively blind so I've got as few preconceptions as possible. I do like reading them after though to see how people's thoughts compare to mine. My reviews do tend to be fairly lengthy so there's probably many things I could say. I like a bit of history on the course, some overall thoughts and highlights of the key holes and features. Despite the website offering a ranking of 'perfection', I've yet to play the perfect course (although six courses have come close enough to warrant a rating of 6) so I also like to see some critique about what isn't so good but importantly the reasons why the reviewer feels like that. Also I'd say that I want to read about the golf course. Yes, I love some comments on if the lunch is mega or the showers are worthy of a world class spa (I've learnt over time that these are very important to us golfers) but don't make the whole review all about them. I do enjoy too, reading the personal stories and anecdotes that many people include in a review, as alongside actually hitting that little white ball around a field, discussing courses and golf course architecture, the people you meet through this wonderful game are such a big part of what makes it great. What's one course that you're excited to write a review for in the upcoming year? I'd love to be able to say Cypress Point, Pine Valley or Augusta National but back on Planet Earth, completing the Open Rota is top of my bucket list so I would say either Carnoustie, Royal Cinque Ports or Musselburgh Old as they are the three I've got left to play. I wouldn't complain either if I needed to write a review of one of the Sunningdale courses, or ideally both!
