St. Andrews Links - Strathtyrum Course

On 1 July 1993, the Strathtyrum Course became the first 18 hole layout to come into play at St Andrews for almost 80 years. It takes its name from the adjacent Strathtyrum Estate, from which the land was purchased.

Designed by Donald Steel to offer enjoyable golf, the course complements the tougher, championship layouts at the 'Home of Golf'. It is shorter and, with only 15 bunkers, a relatively sand-free environment by St Andrews' usual standards.

It still requires, however, a considerable level of skill if it is to be negotiated successfully. Although few in number, the bunkers are cunningly placed and the moundings around the green place a considerable emphasis on iron play accuracy. The greens themselves have slopes and borrows which can make taking more than the regulation two putts all too easy and give a links-like feel to the layout.

The course lies primarily on an East to West axis with the result that the prevailing westerly winds can play havoc with distance. Seemingly innocuous 340 yard par fours can be difficult to reach with two good wood shots for the handicap player when the wind is freshening.

Laid out in two loops of nine it is one of only two courses at St Andrews Links where the use of buggies is permitted (the other is the New Course). The Strathtyrum Course's popularity with locals and visitors alike has taken off and it is now a firm favourite for all except the most committed length-seekers.

Directions: Directions from Edinburgh and the south to St Andrews: Travel north on the M90 over the Forth Bridge. Leave the Motorway at Junction 3 and follow the A92 to its junction with the A914 north of Glenrothes. Take the A914 to the next roundabout, turn right and continue on the A91 through Cupar to St Andrews.