Duke’s Golf Course

Prince Andrew, Duke of York hit the first tee shot at the inaugural match here in 1995, giving the course its name. Duke’s is the only non-links course at St Andrews and is the course built by the Old Course Hotel. Despite its location next to the 17th hole of the Old Course at St Andrews, the hotel could not guarantee its guests tee times there. Hence a new inland course was built for their use.

Designed by five times Open champion Peter Thompson to complement the five classic links courses along the coast, the Duke’s course is a tough challenge in many ways. It was opened for limited play in 1995 and for general play by 1996. Thus St. Andrews is one of the few places in the world where you can play at an outstanding links course and an inland course within a couple of miles of each other. The Duke’s Clubhouse overlooks the spectacular closing holes and enjoys panoramic views of the town of St Andrews and the sea beyond.

The championship course has a spectacular setting above St Andrews, with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside all the way to the sea. One can see over the coastline to Arbroath and along the countryside to the Highlands. Even though Duke’s is an inland course it has the layout, bunkering and feel of a links course. The beautifully designed holes take advantage of the natural features of the stunning parkland setting. The fairways show many small undulations and groups of bunkers. It is one of the finest heathland championship courses in Scotland that demands accuracy, skill as well as power golf.

This long and difficult course is not to be underestimated. Measuring 7271 yards the par 72 course begins with a gentle par 5 opening. The 2nd hole presents a serious challenge and is a tough par four flanked by trees and leading to narrow greens. The 14th hole has burn running through along the fairway to the green that adds to the difficulty while the 18th hole provides a fantastic climax to the game with its extraordinary green.

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