Play at the iconic Home of Golf
A location that needs no introduction, St Andrews is the Home of Golf, with the Old Course at St Andrews Golf Links being on every golfer's bucket list. While the Old Course takes a lot of the limelight for golf packages in St Andrews, the area is rich in quality courses.
Kingsbarns Golf Links has quickly earned its place as one of Scotland's most prestigious courses and is a must-play during your stay. Opened in 2020, Dumbarnie Links is the newest addition to the St Andrews area, offering a championship links experience for golfers of all abilities.
With luxury accommodation and extraordinary history around every corner, a St Andrews golf package is unlike any other.
Why book a golf package to St Andrews?
- Experience the world’s most historic links courses
- Enjoy various accommodation options, from quaint hotels to luxury resorts
- Stay in the town center nearby various pubs & restaurants
- Explore historic sites, including St Andrews Castle
- Visit the wider region of Fife for more historic layouts
- Tick off a bucket list golf package to the ‘Home of Golf’
St. Andrews Old Course Ballot System
Despite being the most sought after tee time in the world, the Old Course at St Andrews still upholds its longstanding tradition of a daily ballot (except Sunday) drawn two days prior to intended day of play. Here are the steps to enter the Old Course’s daily ballot:
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To be able to enter the ballot you must be a minimum of two players and no more than a foursome. All names, handicaps and names of the entities/associations where your handicap is kept will be needed.
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One person can enter the ballot on behalf of their group (maximum four players).
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There are several ways to enter the ballot:
- Enter online, by clicking here
- Calling the Links Trust and thus providing the information over the phone: +44-1334-466-666
- Doing it in person by visiting the Old Pavilion (Starters Hut next to the 1st tee of the Old Course) or by visiting the St Andrews Links Clubhouse.
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The ballot always closes at 2 pm, two days before the day you wish to play. Entries for the ballot are accepted on the day the ballot closes and can also be done immediately after the previous ballot has been drawn.
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A tradition of the Old Course is that the course is closed on Sundays, giving it a chance to recover after all the play during the week. This means that there is no ballot on Fridays.
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Once the ballot is closed for the day, the results are typically published around 4:30 pm the same day. Results of the ballot can be obtained either online or by calling the Links Trust.
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If you are unsuccessful in the ballot, you could try your luck at the Singles Daily Draw. This was newly introduced to allow the allocation of last-minute tee times for single players. To enter, you'll need to visit The Old Pavilion or the St Andrews Links Clubhouse between 9am-5pm the day before you wish to play.
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What are the best golf courses in St Andrews?
St Andrews is where the game started and has become known rightly as the ‘Home of Golf’, where golfing legends were forged and some of the most incredible moments in golf have happened. It is the ultimate golf vacation destination!
While it is true the area of St Andrews has a magical presence to it, with all golfers appreciating its significance to the sport, a St Andrews golf package more than lives up to the reputation.
Some of the best golf courses in St Andrews include:
- Old Course, St Andrews Golf Links – Regarded by many as an absolute must-play, and for good reason, the course exudes class and the history of the course is something of a marvel. No trip to St Andrews is complete without a picture on the famous Swilcan Bridge!
- New Course, St Andrews Links – Designed in 1895 by Old Tom Morris, this classic links course presents undulating terrain and challenging greens. It’s considered a firm favorite by locals.
- Castle Course, St Andrews Links – A modern track that demands accurate tee shots and exemplary putting skills on the fast undulating greens. It’s as rewarding as it is challenging!
- Kingsbarns Golf Links – A European Tour favorite and one our customers absolutely love. Kingsbarns is consistently listed in the Top 100 Courses in the World and is an outstanding example of links golf.
- Balcomie Course, Crail Golfing Society – An Old Tom Morris gem blending breathtaking coastal holes with classic links challenge. Though shorter, Balcomie demands precision, especially when the North Sea winds pick up. Tight fairways, small greens, and ocean views make it a favorite.
- Craighead Links, Crail Golfing Society – Gil Hanse’s modern clifftop design delivers stunning North Sea views and true links golf. Undulating fairways, firm greens, and constant wind make every shot a test. Historic touches like the Danes Dyke wall and WWI pillbox add to the unique experience.
Whether it's your first or tenth time to the Home of Golf, it never disappoints. It is where golf and history meet, making it the perfect playground for golf enthusiasts across the globe.

Senior Golf Vacation Specialist - UK & Ireland
Where to stay & play in St Andrews
Visitors to this charming town can expect a variety of accommodation options that reflect the area's unique blend of traditional Scottish charm and modern luxury. From grand, centuries-old establishments to contemporary boutique hotels, St. Andrews offers something to suit every taste and budget.
Some of the best hotels & resorts in St Andrews include:
- Old Course Hotel – Overlooking the iconic Old Course, this five-star hotel is the epitome of luxury. With opulent bedrooms and suites, fantastic facilities, and an unbeatable location, this hotel is hard to beat.
- Fairmont St Andrews – Set on a 520-acre estate, this resort offers stunning views of the Scottish coastline. With two on-site championship golf courses, a lavish spa, fine dining restaurants, and elegant rooms, you’re guaranteed a tranquil and luxurious getaway.
- Rusacks St Andrews – Known for its grand décor and rich history, this hotel is a Golfbreaks customer favorite. The beautifully appointed rooms with views of the Old Course offer the perfect place to relax and recharge.
- Kinnettles Hotel – Located in the heart of St Andrews, Kinnettles is a small traditional boutique hotel. The renovated Victorian building is just 200 yards from the Old Course.
- Ardgowan Hotel – A charming family-run venue with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It features modern amenities, a popular bar and restaurant, and a central location perfect for exploring on your St Andrews golf package.
- Hotel du vin St Andrews – Overlooking West Sands Beach, this hotel combines traditional Scottish charm with contemporary comfort.
- The Albany Hotel – This unique hotel is housed in a series of converted Georgian townhouses. For a cozy, intimate hotel with individually decorated rooms and a great location, this is the perfect choice.