Old Course Tee Time Tips When Planning A Golf Trip To St Andrews
Old Course Tee Time Tips
The Old Course at St. Andrews is often referred to as “The Home of Golf” for a reason—this historic links course has been the epicenter of the sport for centuries. As one of the oldest and most iconic golf courses in the world, playing at St. Andrews is a bucket-list experience for golfers of all skill levels, so here are some Old Course Tee Time Tips.
With its rich history, unique challenges, and high demand for tee times, securing a spot on the Old Course can be a bit daunting.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some essential Old Course tee time tips to help you navigate the process and make the most of your visit to St. Andrews. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a first-time visitor, this guide will ensure you’re well-prepared for a memorable round at the Old Course.
1. Plan Ahead—Booking Tee Times in Advance
One of the most crucial Old Course tee time tips is to plan ahead. Due to its popularity, tee times at St. Andrews can be in high demand, especially during the summer months when the weather is more favorable. The course operates on a lottery system, and booking a tee time typically requires advanced planning.
Here’s a breakdown of the booking process:
Advance Booking for Visitors: Visitors to the Old Course are allowed to book tee times up to 12 months in advance. The booking window opens in early August for the following year, so make sure to set a reminder to book your time as soon as possible. This is crucial, as slots fill up quickly, particularly during peak times like the summer months.
The Ballot System: If you miss the 12-month booking window, you can still try your luck with the ballot system. The ballot is a random draw for tee times that takes place several months before your intended date of play. If you’re successful, you’ll be given a tee time, but if you’re not, you’ll need to try again for another day.
Booking Through Tour Operators: Another option is to book through a certified tour operator or golf package provider. Many of these companies have access to guaranteed tee times at St. Andrews, though this can come at a premium. This route may be more expensive but can guarantee a spot on the course if you’re not able to get a time through the ballot system.
The Waiting List: If you didn’t get a spot via the ballot, there’s still hope! The Old Course often keeps a waiting list for last-minute cancellations. If you’re staying in St. Andrews or nearby, you can check with the St. Andrews Links Trust to see if any spots open up during your visit. You’ll need to be flexible and ready to jump at the chance if a spot becomes available.
2. Understanding the Tee Time Schedule
Tee times on the Old Course are not like those you might find at a modern resort-style course. The Old Course follows a unique schedule with specific time slots for each day of play, which can be different from typical course tee time systems.
Morning and Afternoon Sessions: Tee times on the Old Course are typically scheduled in the morning and afternoon, with a gap between the sessions to accommodate maintenance and the high volume of golfers. If you’re fortunate enough to secure a tee time in the morning, you’ll be part of an early wave that gets to experience the course when the wind is typically calmer.
Times for Visitors: Typically, visitors to the Old Course will be given a tee time between 7:30 am and 10:00 am or 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. However, during peak season (April to October), it can be tricky to get a prime time slot. Booking as early as possible gives you the best shot at getting a good time.
Tee Time Preferences: If you’re looking for the “classic” St. Andrews experience, consider booking a tee time that allows you to play with the sun rising behind you over the course’s iconic first hole. The lighting and the atmosphere at that time are unmatched and offer a truly unique experience. However, do note that early tee times often come with a greater risk of inclement weather, especially during the fall and spring months.
3. What to Know About the Weather
Weather is a major factor when playing the Old Course, and it can change rapidly. You should always be prepared for variable conditions, especially in the cooler months. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Wind and Rain: The Old Course is situated right by the North Sea, meaning wind is often a significant factor. The wind can change direction frequently, and on certain days, it can gust up to 30mph or more. It’s essential to pack the right clothing—layers are key. Bring a waterproof jacket, gloves, and sturdy footwear to protect yourself from rain, which is common, even in summer.
Course Conditions: The fairways and greens at St. Andrews are generally firm and fast, which means you’ll need to adjust your game for the conditions. The wind can also make club selection tricky, so it’s important to be adaptable and take advice from caddies or fellow golfers who are familiar with the course.
Weather Apps and Local Forecasts: Make sure you check the weather forecast leading up to your tee time and the morning of your round. Local forecasts and apps can give you real-time information about wind and rain patterns so you can make any necessary adjustments to your gear.
4. Caddies and Course Etiquette
One of the most iconic aspects of playing the Old Course is the opportunity to have a caddie. While not mandatory, hiring a caddie is highly recommended for several reasons:
Local Knowledge: A local caddie has invaluable knowledge of the course. They’ll know the best spots to land your tee shots, the breaks on the greens, and which clubs to use in certain conditions. Even if you’re a seasoned golfer, a caddie’s expertise can help you navigate the course’s unique layout.
Course Etiquette: St. Andrews is steeped in tradition and proper etiquette. Having a caddie by your side will ensure you adhere to all the rules and customs, such as repairing your divots, fixing ball marks, and maintaining pace of play. While many golf courses around the world have their own set of rules, the Old Course has a long-standing culture of respect for the game, and your caddie will guide you in the right direction.
Tipping Your Caddie: If you decide to hire a caddie, tipping is customary. A typical tip for a full round at the Old Course is £50 to £75, though this can vary based on the level of service provided.
5. Arriving Early and Preparing for the Round
On the day of your round, it’s important to arrive early to ensure you have enough time to prepare for the experience. St. Andrews is a historic venue, and the pre-round rituals are part of the charm:
Arrival Time: Arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled tee time. This allows you time to check in, pick up any rental clubs (if needed), and get situated in the clubhouse. It also gives you a chance to soak in the historic atmosphere of the Links Clubhouse, which has witnessed so many legendary moments in golf history.
Warm-Up: There is a practice range near the Old Course where you can warm up before your round. It’s also advisable to practice your putting on the famous “The Himalayas” putting green, a short walk from the first tee. Spending some time on this green will help you get a feel for the course’s fast and undulating greens.
Staying Calm and Focused: Finally, remember that St. Andrews is a place of great history, but it’s still just a golf course. It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but it’s important to stay focused on your game. While the experience of playing the Old Course is unforgettable, the goal should still be to enjoy the round, play well, and respect the traditions of the game.
6. Taking Photos and Respecting the Course
As one of the most photographed golf courses in the world, you’ll want to capture the beauty of St. Andrews. However, there are some important rules to keep in mind:
Photos on the Course: You are allowed to take photos while playing the Old Course, but be mindful of other golfers and the course’s heritage. Avoid taking photos during your swing, and never interrupt the flow of the game to snap a picture.
Respecting the Course: Respect for the course and its heritage is paramount. Repair your ball marks on the greens, replace divots on the fairways, and always keep pace with the group ahead of you. The Old Course is a shared space, and maintaining its integrity for future generations is important.
Conclusion
Playing the Old Course at St. Andrews is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that every golfer should strive to experience. By planning ahead, understanding the tee time process, and respecting the course’s traditions, you can ensure that your round at the Home of Golf will be memorable and enjoyable.
From securing your tee time to embracing the weather, caddies, and local etiquette, every detail of your experience at St. Andrews should be approached with care and respect. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor, the Old Course offers a challenge and a thrill that will stay with you long after you’ve putt out on the 18th green.
So, start planning your trip to St. Andrews, utilise these Old Course Tee Time Tips and get ready to tee off at one of the most iconic courses in the world!
For more information or to book your golf tour, visit Meridian Golf Tours.