17th Hole, The Castle Course, St Andrews; chosen by Chris Jones
By VisitScotland
Last Updated: 12/07/16 9:24am
The course
The Castle Course at St Andrews opened in 2008 to become the latest addition to St Andrews Links; a club which comprises seven golf courses including The Old Course - the most iconic course in the world. The Castle Course, designed by David Kidd is situated on top of a cliff overlooking the beautiful old town of St Andrews and across the water at St Andrews Bay. Unlike some of St Andrews Links other courses, The Castle Course is not a classic links, rather an honest yet challenging seaside course. Be sure to make a visit to the award-winning clubhouse too, where you can enjoy fantastic food and drinks while overlooking St Andrews Bay from the glass front terrace.
The Hole
The Castle Course has become one of my favourites in Scotland because it's fun; with incredible views of the town. The par 3 17th is perched on the clifftop, and your tee shot must carry a gaping ravine to reach the green.
Chris Jones, Editor of Golf World.
The 17th hole at The Castle Course, known as Braes, is a brilliant and challenging par 3. The difficulty lies in the deep and wide gorge that exists to the right of the green. However, set high on the cliff-edge, regardless of your shot, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of St Andrews old town.
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Golf in Fife
The Kingdom of Fife is known as the spiritual home of golf with rich links to the history of the game. It is a fantastic golfing region that offers 45 golf courses. In addition to the seven St Andrews Links courses which golfers far and wide dream of playing, there’s also the likes of The Fairmont, Kingsbarn, Carnoustie and Ladybank Golf Club; all exceptional courses.
At nearby Kingarrock Hickory Golf Club you can step back in time and play a round with vintage hickory sticks in the spirit of ‘Old’ Tom Morris.
Seven Fife Golf Trails have been created to appeal to all golfers tastes. Check them out here and see how you could start saving money on your trip today.
The 19th Hole and Beyond
Situated between the Firth of Tay and the Firth of Forth on the east coast of Scotland, Fife is a region with lots of things to see and do. Escape from the buzz of everyday life to the beautiful Fife Coastal Path, which stretching 117 miles offers the perfect haven for walkers and wildlife lovers alike. The region is also home to award-winning beaches, historic castles and the pretty East Neuk fishing villages like St Monans and Crail which are set in the natural harbours along the coast.
Fife is also commended for its delicious array of eateries, boasting mouth-watering local produce. Fife’s culinary scene is sure to satisfy, whether you enjoy the award-winning fish and chips at The Anstruther Fish Bar, or indulge in the modern Scottish fare at Fife’s Michelin-star restaurants; The Peat Inn by St Andrews and Sangster’s in Elie.
Farmers markets held every Saturday in Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline, St Andrews and Cupar, let you sample and buy some of the very best of produce right from the source, from Aberdeen Angus beef, to freshly grown fruit and home-baking.
