Stayed in st andrews every summer for 20 years. Member of the New club so lots of comps around the Old. Three comments. 1. On just about every shot you have 4 or 5 options. 2. There is nothing more magical coming in on a late summer night on 18 and all the buildings are pink with the setting sun. 3. Incredible on a Sunday to see people playing frisbee and other games on the fairways. It is just a park on Sunday and there is no other major venue even close to that
I've been lucky enough to play it twice. I took my wife to Scotland for a holiday and showed her the course and explained the history. She had never touched a golf club but suddenly announced that she wanted to play there. One year later, for my 50th birthday, she got a tee for a three-ball with the two of us and my regular golf chum. She played so well, the highlight being a great par on the 17th, I was immensely proud of her. We played it again for my 55th and hopefully, I will get there again for my 60th next year. I love the place.
Mark, I was fortunate a few decades ago, having been born in Glasgow but moved to Canada when I was 1, that my entire family still lives there. My cousin, sent his daughter to St. Andrews University, and while there, he bought a place for her to stay. We went during the summer, stayed there for a week, and played a few of the 'other' courses that weren't the old course but you would never know - every golfer should go and play the other courses - they are amazing. There are so many things that stick out as a Canadian visiting that I will never forget: - how far the tide goes out (insane) - the military base at the end of the all the courses that are constantly launching bombers and fighter jets - the 500 year old ruins in town - the 'class' attitude of the horrible guy running the putt putt - how on Sunday everyone just walked over the 1st and 18th fairway - the smallness of the entire place - it was so easy in 15 minutes to see everything - how surreal it was to play and just be there Take your Muppet Tour there and play all the 'other' courses - they are amazing - and then do short videos of you walking out for dinner each night. In my mind, Augusta and St. Andrews stand alone on Earth as the must see and do golf destinations
Was lucky enough to play the Old Course in 2011 on a family holiday from Australia . The golfing gods were smiling on me that day as I got to play with a St Andrews member ( Dr David Hamilton who has written many books on the history of the course), along with the US hickory champion (Randy Jensen) and another fellow from Texas (Tom). These men kindly allowed me to join them in playing that hallowed turf and it lived up to the hype. You must go and play there Mark... thank you for bringing back some wonderful memories.
It's an amazing place with five or six different courses for all abilities and great practice facilities. You get proper knee wobbles when teeing up on the 1st with all the visitors lining up to play and watch. Like any good links course it can be cruel or kind to you, especially with its bunkers, swells and huge greens. I've yet to play a hole that can beat the 17th, that's a par you'd be proud of Mark. If/when you play there, do make sure to try the New and Jubilee courses as well. Both are great and the New is arguably as good as the Old and has it's own clubhouse. However, the one thing you must do is play The Himalayas putting course near the 1st fairway - it's heaps of fun and would be a great vlog in itself! Oh, and that building was uni hall of residence when I was there, back in the 90s. Love your content, thumbs up.
No I have not been fortunate enough to play any golf at St Andrews. I have walked the length of the 17 and 18th Fairways, what an atmosphere and buzz I got from just doing that. We were up there playing golf about 6 miles north of St Andrews, let me tell you how genuinely friendly and accommodating everyone one was. I would love to play there and all the other surrounding golf courses. I did buy a ball and pitch Mark repairer from the shop, which I always carry and use them both when I play golf. Excellent video, keep them coming and I will always watch them.
On my bucket list. Will try this year. A MUST play. Although not easy to get a tee time and ridiculously expensive for a public course! Worth every penny. I'll definitely get pictures 📸
Got in line at 12:30 am and was able to get on a couple years ago. Stunning. Shot 82 but the thing I'll carry forever is that I didn't hit ONE bunker the whole round! Facilities, caddies, everything was exceptional top to bottom. And yes, the town itself is an absolute delight! Hands down the best golf experience of my life.
Ive never played it but my father has. He passed away last year and the picture of him on the bridge is hanging on my wall. He taught me the love of the game and I hope to go myself and take the same picture with his clubs I have in my bag when I play
Play if you can its a fantastic experience. Only place I've ever had a round of applause. As a teenager hit 1 from behind the crossing on the 18th onto the green rolled up to few feet from flag. Load of holiday makers in a stand remaining from a tournament clap as I walked onto green. Great fun never to be repeated.
I’ve played it with my wife. She put us in the draw without me knowing and we were lucky enough to get a tee time the next day. What a great surprise that was. We played with 2 guys from America. It was fantastic, only 6 weeks before the open in 2010 and all the stands were up. Shot 86 which which I was pleased with, actually the score didn’t matter, the smile didn’t leave our faces. Took loads of pictures, and a few days later they had the claret jug on the first tee - we managed to blag a photo with that from the starter!
I played on New Year’s Eve just gone. Didn’t have a tee time just turned up at daybreak. First in line. Got put out with a member. So nervous i Topped my opening tee shot lol! Unbelievable golf course. Feel very privileged to have played it
I had the good fortune of playing the Old Course this August. Got up at 3:30 in the morning to get in queue, and finally made it out by 4:30 pm. Battled weather and sleep deprivation for a respectable 77, for which I had to birdie the 18th. Special feeling!
Is the most amazing experience. Played the last 2 years and playing early next year too. Not the hardest course but the best I have ever played by far. Walking the fairways that all the greats in the world have won at. Amazing just walking onto the 1st tee just makes you smile
I played the old course 4 years ago as a birthday present from a dear friend. Hardest course I've ever played and the most fun I've ever had on a golf course
I was able to go to St. Andrews the week before the 2010 Open. The course was closed to play, but I was able to walk the course with the grand stands up. It was surreal. I still have the St. Andrews tartan on my bag. It's absolutely on my bucket list. I'll be back one day.
Great video Mark, glad you enjoyed The Old Course.Only ever been once when it was the old format of the Dunhill and was lucky enough to see Payne Stewart play, what a swing.
I feel so lucky to go to St. Andrews several times a year, always great to hear about everyone’s love for the place when they visit. Never played The Old Course but you can’t go wrong with any of the courses in and around the town. A short drive takes you to Crail Golfing Society which is a hidden gem.
I agree. There is nowhere else like it. The other courses are also spectacular. I played The Jubilee with my son this summer and absolutely loved it. You and the boys HAVE to play The Old. That would be a real treat to watch.
Been lucky to play the old course 3 tines now, with my late father and my son. It just oozes history when you play are there. The building you pointed out used to be student accommodation but now very expensive flats.
2016 got to St. Andrews and had a week there in the town. Mark is 100% correct about the town being even better than the Courses and the Courses are better than you think possible. It is a must. Have photos on 18 green and Swilcan Bridge at dawn and at dusk (10pm) - just awesome lace.
Played the old course in June this year...a day I'll never forget. Shot an 84 which easily could have been sub 80 with a couple of lip burners going my way. Not sure if I'll ever be able to look at golf courses the same after playing the OG of golf courses! Enjoyed every second of it.
Played it in July and caught it on the worst day of the summer. Absolutely loved it although in the lightning, awful rain and gnarly wind. On 18 put it onto the road into one of the back yards. Loved it so much that I want to go again but maybe in better weather.
I was working near by last year, took my clubs. Finished work 2am, queued up at 0630, tee'd off at 1315, cost me £180. Was the best golfing experience of my life! Still get excited thinking about it now!
Played it over the Easter weekend this year along with Carnoustie.. loved every minute and you’re right you must aim way more over those sheds on 17 than you think .. I went just over the edge and ended up in the left rough.. the jubilee and new courses are also fantastic to play .
Born and raised in St Andrews, you don't appreciate it until you have left. The town is great plenty places to stay and eat. Plenty other great courses a short drive away Scotscraig, Lundin Links, Elie and Ladybank etc. My dad unable to play golf due to his hip now but retro want to play the Old Course again
I played the Old Course one week after the Open there in 2015. I took a solo trip to St. Andrews. On Monday morning (it was cold, windy, and a little rainy), I went and stood in line at 5:15-ish. I was 8th in line and I got sent out around 8:30. I didn't play great, but I did birdie the 18th. :)
I went and played the old & new course with 3 good mates, it is easily my best golfing experience ever. Stayed 100 yds up the road in a small b&b hotel and just walked to the first tee. The town as you said is also spectacular, plenty of lovely old bars to hear plenty of golfing stories. The first tee is as nervous I've ever been hitting a golf ball, I was playing off 6 and as straight as Marc off the tee but even I came within a yard of missing a huge field in front of me, my legs were like jelly with nerves and excitement. Really happy with my 79 to finish tho 👍
Brilliant vid Mark! Was there several years ago traveling; didn’t play but walked the whole public path. You didn’t mention the people of St. Andrews - some of the absolute kindest and most generous I’ve met. If I were going expat it’d be my first choice. Cheers Bruh!
Played there 4 years ago, a couple of days after the Dunhill Links Championship. Perfect day - slight breeze at our backs on the first 9, even par on the way out with a birdie on the 1st and an eagle on the 9th. Different story on the way back the breeze had stiffened a little. Lots of bogeys and a couple of doubles for 48 and 84 overall. Managed to sink a good putt for par on 18 to top off a fantastic day!
I have been lucky enough to play it twice but the best thing was sitting having a snack on the 17th Fairway on a Sunday as the course is closed for golf. People just wander about which is awesome.
I took a selfie at the bridge as you can see hence the profile pic👍. Could not get on old course so played the new. Thanks for the video as always, love your content was hoping to see you and the boy’s play the Old Course. Maybe next time
You nailed it Mark with regard to the accessibility of the course. You don't really see it anywhere else in sport. The mountain roads of the Tour de France maybe. Imagine football fans being able to take a stroll around Wembley if they felt like. I've strolled on the Old Course on two occasions but never played (one can dream!) But it is indeed magical to be able to get up so close
Went there this august. Was a FANTASTIC experience. Have been playing since 1989. And this was just on my bucket list. I just had to go there. WE had a great tour with one of the local guys there. The greenfee is a bit steep I think, and so did he. He told us that if you live in St. Andrews for more than 6 months a year. You pay 220 pounds for a membership for ALL the courses in St. Andrews! If I knew I could get I job there, I would move the family tomorrow. That place is simply magical!!
Played the old course 2 years ago and while it’s not the best course I’ve played it’s by far the best experience I’ve had. I was walking down the first with the biggest stupidest grin imaginable! Towns class for a few beers after as well!
I've played the new course (which is still old by normal standards) which runs alongside the old in places, it was in great condition and I found it to be a very fair test. It was a great day and I'll never forget it.
I think the old course is a bucket list must, if someone has been playing golf for at least three days. I've never been, but it's on the top of my bucket list, even if it's just to see it. I've only been to the UK once, and only for half an hour on my way back from Germany. I'd love to go back and spend some time because that is where my Dad's family came from 400 years ago.
The playing vid from The old course, you and Coach (enjoying the wide fairway at the 1st) will truly be a Super Bowl, a World Cup final, a day off from work. I literally pray to the dear Lord.
One of my happiest memories was literally bumping into Fred Couples turning onto the Links Road. He doesn't say much on the course but super friendly off it. The course itself is incredible, you can feel the history on every hole.
Managed to play here almost four years ago to the day, amazing experience! I remember having to turn up at 3am to get a tee time as a single player joining a group. Added to the experience! Once in a life time stuff! All the way from New Zealand!
I got to play the New Course last year, played with a couple of locals that said it's every bit as good as The Old Course. When I got to The Old Course, I was standing off the side of the first tee I heard a booming voice say "First time at The Old Course?" I was standing there in awe with goose bumps, the voice startled me. I turned around and didn't realize I was about two feet from the starter's shack. I said yes, is it that obvious? He must have thought so, he gave me a starters kit, black drawstring valuables bag, divot repair tool, and yardage book with the day's pin sheet. One of my most prized possessions. We walked The Old Course on Sunday with the locals, I had the obligatory picture taken on the bridge, then we had lunch at The Jigger Inn. Just an amazing town. We stayed at The Rufflets St Andrews, it's just a few miles outside of town and an incredible property. I found out that's where Nicklaus stayed whenever he went to St Andrews, highly recommend the place.
I’ve played The old course two times in 1975 and 4 times in 1977. I still play golf and have played lot’s of courses in Europe and US. My opinion of TOC is that the course it self, is to special and historic to be rated up against any other course in the world. It’s like you can’t have an opinion about your mother being hot or not. TOC is - to me - simply out of the scale. Anyway after playing TOC in 1977 i went to Turnberry, to watch my hero Jack Nicklaus loose at the last hole, to Tom Watson. By the way... love your videos 👍🏻 keep it up. Kind regards Stig 🇩🇰
Was lucky enough to play it earlier this year along with New and the Jubilee courses. Unreal trip and agree with all your points, just a magical place.
I played there three years ago while visiting on my Honeymoon. What an amazing experience! Had pictures taken at many locations... the 18th bridge of course. Would love to go back there again someday.
Never played, never been there but it’s number one on my bucket list. I agree with everything you said in this video. I’m 44 I’m gonna do it before I’m 50! (Starting to plan for my 45th birthday)
Oooh, the memories... I was a uni student there 76-80. Used to get up at 530am and walk down to the Old Course and get a round in before my 9am lectures. No queues or need to book at that time. In my first year the cost for a student was £6 - for a WHOLE YEAR for the 4 courses (Old, New, Jubilee and Eden). There was uproar when it rose to £9 for the annual ticket in 1977. The latest I played the Old was (I think in early May) teeing off at just before 9pm, and came up the 18th with the fairway lit up by the Rusacks Hotel and other buildings around 1115pm. It wasn't busy then either. Others have commented on what was the red brick Hamilton Hall residence (now posh hotel / apartments); I was there when Chariots of Fire was filmed - Hamilton Hall was rebranded Carlton Hotel (as in Broadstairs, Kent) in big gold letters on the top floor. The letters were painted polystyrene, wired onto the railings. Guess what, the resident students would create anagrams for the film crews to sort out each morning... my favourite was "Tart Hole"..... Thanks for rattling the memory bank Mark.
Fabulous memories and just such a beautiful place... i was lucky enough to play the Old, New Jubilee & the Eden courses when i was 16 when i came with a friend and his family.
I went up there in 1979. Stayed in university accommodation, payed about £25 for a weekday season ticket for unlimited use of the other courses and had a round on the Old Course which was also about £25 and we booked it at the start of the same week... Times have changed! It's a scary first tee shot with all the tourists watching you.
The New Course runs alongside the Old and is a fantastic course in its own right. I love the Eden Course on the other side too. They're all great. Go and use the short game practice area by the driving range one evening when the sun is setting over the links and shadows accentuate the humps and hollows. It almost a religious experience!
St Andrews is a special place, it’s a golf pilgrimage. We did a bit of a tour in May (kingsbarns, jubilee, castle, Carnoustie) but couldn’t get on the Old Course. Managed to get a tee time in a few weeks on the OC, really looking forward to it
Was traveling through on a whirlwind day trip around Scotland (started in Glasgow, went up to Urqhart Castle and down to St Andrews) walked on the course (it was closed and 2 weeks before the Open). Stands were up. Walked down the 1st, over to 17, got someone to take my picture on the Swilcan bridge, and then up 18. Awesome!
Took a trip to St. Andrews in 2017. What an amazing place. It's like Disney World for golfers. Any golfer should try to get there at least once. You won't be disappointed.
Amazing place and great video! Played it twice and couldn’t recommend enough. Best way to get on? Queue from 4am on the first tee for an on the day tee time. They match up singles and two balls with other groups. Make sure you get a caddy - it’s worth it for all the blind shots, avoiding trouble, and the stories they have!
Went up there last October with the Mrs to visit St Andrews town and walk the Old course. Actually proposed to her on the bench next to 17th green overlooking The Jigger Inn pub. Hope to play the course next time we go back, maybe for an anniversary or something!
I was lucky enough to play The Old Course last April, and it was the most magical golf experience ever!!! Totally worth the mega price to get a guaranteed tee times. Top tip, when in the area one has to play Kingsbarns as well - easily rivals Pebble Beach in sheer beauty.
100% on my list to get across the pond and play!! I dont know if I'd be able to concentrate and hit golf shots. I would just be looking around in amazement.
I took my lad up to St Andrews last week Mark, we played the Strathtyrum in lovely weather, I took him on that course as he only plays once in a blue moon, the course although smallest of the courses there was a lot of fun, we were very well looked after by all staff there as well.
This is where i live and work around the course in the club houses etc and st.andrews on a weekly basis, sit and have my lunch some days next to course and still get lost in thoughts just watching the course and people playing it. You still not played it yet ?
I’ve been to St. Andrews many time to watch golf but sadly never played, I live 5 minutes from trump international in Aberdeen and again never played it, I need to start appreciating what I have on my doorstep.
played it and was great experience. problem I had was we teed off at 4:30pm in may and with all golfers being told to "hit it left" we found a number of holes you could be looking for 8 balls in a 60 yard area. super golf Mecca though! love to play it when it looks as quiet as your footage
Love St Andrews, first went there aged 16 to watch the 1990 Open and watched Faldo! Been to several Opens and followed Tiger, always great to watch these guys practice on the range before a tournament, would love to play the Old Course, PlayStation is as close as I’ve got so far!!
The Old Course is great, but it's all about the history and experience. You wouldn't swap that 1st and 18th tee experience on a summers night, but it's not the best course out there. Kingsbarns is the best track, gotta play that, Mark. I did play The Old Course on the same day as Obama a couple years back though, an absolute scorcher :) Teed off about 15mins after he finished and it was quite busy! Playing the 18th when the shadows are getting long is something I'll never forget.
Been going to St Andrews since I was 5. Love the New Course. The inside of the clubhouse has so much history, it’s like time stopped in 1890, the room where they have winners dinner is tiny. The highlight for me though is always walking on the 1st and 18th fairways with literally 100s of people.
notformebeaky Your right, the reading room was nice and the locker room was impressive enough, that dining room must be like a 100degrees when it’s full😉 Didn’t really enjoy the stuffiness though
My son and I have played the Old Course twice. We missed the ballot the third time there. The building behind the 18th is now condos, but used to be University Hall. Also, the New and Jubilee Courses are good. The town itself is fantastic.
Stayed in st andrews every summer for 20 years. Member of the New club so lots of comps around the Old. Three comments.
1. On just about every shot you have 4 or 5 options. 2. There is nothing more magical coming in on a late summer night on 18 and all the buildings are pink with the setting sun. 3. Incredible on a Sunday to see people playing frisbee and other games on the fairways. It is just a park on Sunday and there is no other major venue even close to that
Mark....you captured the spirit of St Andrews for your subscribers! It is a place that draws you back.....it gets in your golf soul!!
I've been lucky enough to play it twice. I took my wife to Scotland for a holiday and showed her the course and explained the history. She had never touched a golf club but suddenly announced that she wanted to play there. One year later, for my 50th birthday, she got a tee for a three-ball with the two of us and my regular golf chum. She played so well, the highlight being a great par on the 17th, I was immensely proud of her. We played it again for my 55th and hopefully, I will get there again for my 60th next year. I love the place.
We need to see ray and coach block one into the hotel on 17
Either could get there off the first tbh....
Mark,
I was fortunate a few decades ago, having been born in Glasgow but moved to Canada when I was 1, that my entire family still lives there. My cousin, sent his daughter to St. Andrews University, and while there, he bought a place for her to stay. We went during the summer, stayed there for a week, and played a few of the 'other' courses that weren't the old course but you would never know - every golfer should go and play the other courses - they are amazing. There are so many things that stick out as a Canadian visiting that I will never forget:
- how far the tide goes out (insane)
- the military base at the end of the all the courses that are constantly launching bombers and fighter jets
- the 500 year old ruins in town
- the 'class' attitude of the horrible guy running the putt putt
- how on Sunday everyone just walked over the 1st and 18th fairway
- the smallness of the entire place - it was so easy in 15 minutes to see everything
- how surreal it was to play and just be there
Take your Muppet Tour there and play all the 'other' courses - they are amazing - and then do short videos of you walking out for dinner each night. In my mind, Augusta and St. Andrews stand alone on Earth as the must see and do golf destinations
Was lucky enough to play the Old Course in 2011 on a family holiday from Australia . The golfing gods were smiling on me that day as I got to play with a St Andrews member ( Dr David Hamilton who has written many books on the history of the course), along with the US hickory champion (Randy Jensen) and another fellow from Texas (Tom). These men kindly allowed me to join them in playing that hallowed turf and it lived up to the hype. You must go and play there Mark... thank you for bringing back some wonderful memories.
In three years! My youngest daughter will be 18, so Im off from America to do the Scotland tour. Cant wait!
It's an amazing place with five or six different courses for all abilities and great practice facilities. You get proper knee wobbles when teeing up on the 1st with all the visitors lining up to play and watch. Like any good links course it can be cruel or kind to you, especially with its bunkers, swells and huge greens. I've yet to play a hole that can beat the 17th, that's a par you'd be proud of Mark. If/when you play there, do make sure to try the New and Jubilee courses as well. Both are great and the New is arguably as good as the Old and has it's own clubhouse. However, the one thing you must do is play The Himalayas putting course near the 1st fairway - it's heaps of fun and would be a great vlog in itself! Oh, and that building was uni hall of residence when I was there, back in the 90s. Love your content, thumbs up.
No I have not been fortunate enough to play any golf at St Andrews. I have walked the length of the 17 and 18th Fairways, what an atmosphere and buzz I got from just doing that. We were up there playing golf about 6 miles north of St Andrews, let me tell you how genuinely friendly and accommodating everyone one was. I would love to play there and all the other surrounding golf courses. I did buy a ball and pitch Mark repairer from the shop, which I always carry and use them both when I play golf. Excellent video, keep them coming and I will always watch them.
I've played it twice, 20 years apart. It's the history surrounding you that make it so special.
On my bucket list. Will try this year. A MUST play. Although not easy to get a tee time and ridiculously expensive for a public course! Worth every penny.
I'll definitely get pictures 📸
Got in line at 12:30 am and was able to get on a couple years ago. Stunning. Shot 82 but the thing I'll carry forever is that I didn't hit ONE bunker the whole round! Facilities, caddies, everything was exceptional top to bottom. And yes, the town itself is an absolute delight! Hands down the best golf experience of my life.
Ive never played it but my father has. He passed away last year and the picture of him on the bridge is hanging on my wall. He taught me the love of the game and I hope to go myself and take the same picture with his clubs I have in my bag when I play
Play if you can its a fantastic experience. Only place I've ever had a round of applause. As a teenager hit 1 from behind the crossing on the 18th onto the green rolled up to few feet from flag. Load of holiday makers in a stand remaining from a tournament clap as I walked onto green. Great fun never to be repeated.
I’ve played it with my wife. She put us in the draw without me knowing and we were lucky enough to get a tee time the next day. What a great surprise that was. We played with 2 guys from America. It was fantastic, only 6 weeks before the open in 2010 and all the stands were up. Shot 86 which which I was pleased with, actually the score didn’t matter, the smile didn’t leave our faces. Took loads of pictures, and a few days later they had the claret jug on the first tee - we managed to blag a photo with that from the starter!
Played it 7 years and loved it very enjoyable course and love the town such a cool place and just get a buzz every time you see the course
I played on New Year’s Eve just gone. Didn’t have a tee time just turned up at daybreak. First in line. Got put out with a member. So nervous i Topped my opening tee shot lol! Unbelievable golf course. Feel very privileged to have played it
One of my best holidays with great mates was to there. It's a golf theme park! Great reminder of it Mark!
I had the good fortune of playing the Old Course this August. Got up at 3:30 in the morning to get in queue, and finally made it out by 4:30 pm. Battled weather and sleep deprivation for a respectable 77, for which I had to birdie the 18th. Special feeling!
Is the most amazing experience. Played the last 2 years and playing early next year too. Not the hardest course but the best I have ever played by far. Walking the fairways that all the greats in the world have won at. Amazing just walking onto the 1st tee just makes you smile
I played the old course 4 years ago as a birthday present from a dear friend. Hardest course I've ever played and the most fun I've ever had on a golf course
I was able to go to St. Andrews the week before the 2010 Open. The course was closed to play, but I was able to walk the course with the grand stands up. It was surreal. I still have the St. Andrews tartan on my bag. It's absolutely on my bucket list. I'll be back one day.
Great video Mark, glad you enjoyed The Old Course.Only ever been once when it was the old format of the Dunhill and was lucky enough to see Payne Stewart play, what a swing.
Played it every year for the last 8 years with a group of mates. Back again next March, can't wait, stunning place, stunning courses...
Not best course I have played. But for nostalgia I have never smiled as much playing golf round it. Truly special place.
What a spectacular course. I was fortunate to play it a few years ago. An amazing experience which I certainly will never forget.
I feel so lucky to go to St. Andrews several times a year, always great to hear about everyone’s love for the place when they visit. Never played The Old Course but you can’t go wrong with any of the courses in and around the town. A short drive takes you to Crail Golfing Society which is a hidden gem.
I agree. There is nowhere else like it. The other courses are also spectacular. I played The Jubilee with my son this summer and absolutely loved it. You and the boys HAVE to play The Old. That would be a real treat to watch.
Fortunate enough to be a member at Carnoustie and have played the Old Course. Pop down every now and again just for a wander, fantastic place.
Been lucky to play the old course 3 tines now, with my late father and my son. It just oozes history when you play are there. The building you pointed out used to be student accommodation but now very expensive flats.
2016 got to St. Andrews and had a week there in the town. Mark is 100% correct about the town being even better than the Courses and the Courses are better than you think possible. It is a must. Have photos on 18 green and Swilcan Bridge at dawn and at dusk (10pm) - just awesome lace.
Played the old course in June this year...a day I'll never forget. Shot an 84 which easily could have been sub 80 with a couple of lip burners going my way. Not sure if I'll ever be able to look at golf courses the same after playing the OG of golf courses! Enjoyed every second of it.
Played it in July and caught it on the worst day of the summer. Absolutely loved it although in the lightning, awful rain and gnarly wind. On 18 put it onto the road into one of the back yards. Loved it so much that I want to go again but maybe in better weather.
I was working near by last year, took my clubs. Finished work 2am, queued up at 0630, tee'd off at 1315, cost me £180. Was the best golfing experience of my life! Still get excited thinking about it now!
Played it over the Easter weekend this year along with Carnoustie.. loved every minute and you’re right you must aim way more over those sheds on 17 than you think .. I went just over the edge and ended up in the left rough.. the jubilee and new courses are also fantastic to play .
Amazing course & town. Lovely pubs. Played the old and the Castle course.
Born and raised in St Andrews, you don't appreciate it until you have left. The town is great plenty places to stay and eat. Plenty other great courses a short drive away Scotscraig, Lundin Links, Elie and Ladybank etc. My dad unable to play golf due to his hip now but retro want to play the Old Course again
I played the Old Course one week after the Open there in 2015. I took a solo trip to St. Andrews. On Monday morning (it was cold, windy, and a little rainy), I went and stood in line at 5:15-ish. I was 8th in line and I got sent out around 8:30. I didn't play great, but I did birdie the 18th. :)
I went and played the old & new course with 3 good mates, it is easily my best golfing experience ever. Stayed 100 yds up the road in a small b&b hotel and just walked to the first tee. The town as you said is also spectacular, plenty of lovely old bars to hear plenty of golfing stories. The first tee is as nervous I've ever been hitting a golf ball, I was playing off 6 and as straight as Marc off the tee but even I came within a yard of missing a huge field in front of me, my legs were like jelly with nerves and excitement. Really happy with my 79 to finish tho 👍
Haven't play it but walked it. Absolutely beautiful. Don't have anything like it in Australia. The history, amazing
Brilliant vid Mark! Was there several years ago traveling; didn’t play but walked the whole public path. You didn’t mention the people of St. Andrews - some of the absolute kindest and most generous I’ve met. If I were going expat it’d be my first choice. Cheers Bruh!
Played there 4 years ago, a couple of days after the Dunhill Links Championship. Perfect day - slight breeze at our backs on the first 9, even par on the way out with a birdie on the 1st and an eagle on the 9th. Different story on the way back the breeze had stiffened a little. Lots of bogeys and a couple of doubles for 48 and 84 overall. Managed to sink a good putt for par on 18 to top off a fantastic day!
Love to see you Matt Rory and Dan play the old course it would make fantastic viewing 👍👍👍👍
Played it in 2011..... fantastic experience!!
I have been lucky enough to play it twice but the best thing was sitting having a snack on the 17th Fairway on a Sunday as the course is closed for golf. People just wander about which is awesome.
I took a selfie at the bridge as you can see hence the profile pic👍. Could not get on old course so played the new. Thanks for the video as always, love your content was hoping to see you and the boy’s play the Old Course. Maybe next time
when your stood on the first your excited and nervous it's such a special feeling its had to describe....
You nailed it Mark with regard to the accessibility of the course. You don't really see it anywhere else in sport. The mountain roads of the Tour de France maybe. Imagine football fans being able to take a stroll around Wembley if they felt like. I've strolled on the Old Course on two occasions but never played (one can dream!) But it is indeed magical to be able to get up so close
True bucket list trip.
Went there this august. Was a FANTASTIC experience. Have been playing since 1989. And this was just on my bucket list. I just had to go there. WE had a great tour with one of the local guys there.
The greenfee is a bit steep I think, and so did he. He told us that if you live in St. Andrews for more than 6 months a year. You pay 220 pounds for a membership for ALL the courses in St. Andrews!
If I knew I could get I job there, I would move the family tomorrow. That place is simply magical!!
Played it 2005, it still remains my #1!!!
Played the old course 2 years ago and while it’s not the best course I’ve played it’s by far the best experience I’ve had. I was walking down the first with the biggest stupidest grin imaginable! Towns class for a few beers after as well!
I've played the new course (which is still old by normal standards) which runs alongside the old in places, it was in great condition and I found it to be a very fair test. It was a great day and I'll never forget it.
I think the old course is a bucket list must, if someone has been playing golf for at least three days. I've never been, but it's on the top of my bucket list, even if it's just to see it. I've only been to the UK once, and only for half an hour on my way back from Germany. I'd love to go back and spend some time because that is where my Dad's family came from 400 years ago.
The playing vid from The old course, you and Coach (enjoying the wide fairway at the 1st) will truly be a Super Bowl, a World Cup final, a day off from work. I literally pray to the dear Lord.
As a non golfing teenager I lived in St Andrews for a summer and I never even looked at the golf course. 40 years later it’s on my bucket list.
One of my happiest memories was literally bumping into Fred Couples turning onto the Links Road. He doesn't say much on the course but super friendly off it. The course itself is incredible, you can feel the history on every hole.
Taking my son back up on Saturday to watch the dunhill. Love St Andrew's. Can't wait.
Managed to play here almost four years ago to the day, amazing experience! I remember having to turn up at 3am to get a tee time as a single player joining a group. Added to the experience! Once in a life time stuff! All the way from New Zealand!
St. Andrews is beautiful. Great to see it getting some appreciation
Defo
Mark Crossfield get on the phone to Ray and tell him to get you on it for a round
I got to play the New Course last year, played with a couple of locals that said it's every bit as good as The Old Course. When I got to The Old Course, I was standing off the side of the first tee I heard a booming voice say "First time at The Old Course?" I was standing there in awe with goose bumps, the voice startled me. I turned around and didn't realize I was about two feet from the starter's shack. I said yes, is it that obvious? He must have thought so, he gave me a starters kit, black drawstring valuables bag, divot repair tool, and yardage book with the day's pin sheet. One of my most prized possessions. We walked The Old Course on Sunday with the locals, I had the obligatory picture taken on the bridge, then we had lunch at The Jigger Inn. Just an amazing town. We stayed at The Rufflets St Andrews, it's just a few miles outside of town and an incredible property. I found out that's where Nicklaus stayed whenever he went to St Andrews, highly recommend the place.
I’ve played The old course two times in 1975 and 4 times in 1977. I still play golf and have played lot’s of courses in Europe and US. My opinion of TOC is that the course it self, is to special and historic to be rated up against any other course in the world. It’s like you can’t have an opinion about your mother being hot or not. TOC is - to me - simply out of the scale. Anyway after playing TOC in 1977 i went to Turnberry, to watch my hero Jack Nicklaus loose at the last hole, to Tom Watson. By the way... love your videos 👍🏻 keep it up. Kind regards Stig 🇩🇰
I have never been, but would dearly love to go at some point. Definitely will have my picture taken on the bridge.
Was lucky enough to play it earlier this year along with New and the Jubilee courses. Unreal trip and agree with all your points, just a magical place.
I played there three years ago while visiting on my Honeymoon. What an amazing experience! Had pictures taken at many locations... the 18th bridge of course. Would love to go back there again someday.
Never played, never been there but it’s number one on my bucket list. I agree with everything you said in this video. I’m 44 I’m gonna do it before I’m 50! (Starting to plan for my 45th birthday)
The old course is on the bucket list for sure!! I hope to play one day I'm coming from across the pond
Oooh, the memories... I was a uni student there 76-80. Used to get up at 530am and walk down to the Old Course and get a round in before my 9am lectures. No queues or need to book at that time. In my first year the cost for a student was £6 - for a WHOLE YEAR for the 4 courses (Old, New, Jubilee and Eden). There was uproar when it rose to £9 for the annual ticket in 1977. The latest I played the Old was (I think in early May) teeing off at just before 9pm, and came up the 18th with the fairway lit up by the Rusacks Hotel and other buildings around 1115pm. It wasn't busy then either. Others have commented on what was the red brick Hamilton Hall residence (now posh hotel / apartments); I was there when Chariots of Fire was filmed - Hamilton Hall was rebranded Carlton Hotel (as in Broadstairs, Kent) in big gold letters on the top floor. The letters were painted polystyrene, wired onto the railings. Guess what, the resident students would create anagrams for the film crews to sort out each morning... my favourite was "Tart Hole"..... Thanks for rattling the memory bank Mark.
Fabulous memories and just such a beautiful place... i was lucky enough to play the Old, New Jubilee & the Eden courses when i was 16 when i came with a friend and his family.
If I could only play one more round the rest of my life, it would be at the Old Course. So much history and tradition. Nothing else comes close!
I went up there in 1979. Stayed in university accommodation, payed about £25 for a weekday season ticket for unlimited use of the other courses and had a round on the Old Course which was also about £25 and we booked it at the start of the same week... Times have changed! It's a scary first tee shot with all the tourists watching you.
The New Course runs alongside the Old and is a fantastic course in its own right. I love the Eden Course on the other side too. They're all great. Go and use the short game practice area by the driving range one evening when the sun is setting over the links and shadows accentuate the humps and hollows. It almost a religious experience!
St Andrews is a special place, it’s a golf pilgrimage. We did a bit of a tour in May (kingsbarns, jubilee, castle, Carnoustie) but couldn’t get on the Old Course. Managed to get a tee time in a few weeks on the OC, really looking forward to it
Was traveling through on a whirlwind day trip around Scotland (started in Glasgow, went up to Urqhart Castle and down to St Andrews) walked on the course (it was closed and 2 weeks before the Open). Stands were up. Walked down the 1st, over to 17, got someone to take my picture on the Swilcan bridge, and then up 18. Awesome!
I've had my picture taken on the bridge! I also played the New Course back in August. An experience I'll never forget!
Took a trip to St. Andrews in 2017. What an amazing place. It's like Disney World for golfers. Any golfer should try to get there at least once. You won't be disappointed.
Amazing place and great video! Played it twice and couldn’t recommend enough. Best way to get on? Queue from 4am on the first tee for an on the day tee time. They match up singles and two balls with other groups. Make sure you get a caddy - it’s worth it for all the blind shots, avoiding trouble, and the stories they have!
Went up there last October with the Mrs to visit St Andrews town and walk the Old course. Actually proposed to her on the bench next to 17th green overlooking The Jigger Inn pub. Hope to play the course next time we go back, maybe for an anniversary or something!
Great video enjoyed every minute thank you Mark
I was lucky enough to play The Old Course last April, and it was the most magical golf experience ever!!! Totally worth the mega price to get a guaranteed tee times. Top tip, when in the area one has to play Kingsbarns as well - easily rivals Pebble Beach in sheer beauty.
Was there in 2015 and had my picture on the bridge. Was an almost religious experience. A must play for any golfer 🏌🏻♂️
100% on my list to get across the pond and play!! I dont know if I'd be able to concentrate and hit golf shots. I would just be looking around in amazement.
I’ve been lucky enough to play it already. Simply an amazing experience
Bucket list course for sure!
I took my lad up to St Andrews last week Mark, we played the Strathtyrum in lovely weather, I took him on that course as he only plays once in a blue moon, the course although smallest of the courses there was a lot of fun, we were very well looked after by all staff there as well.
Was there 2 years ago. Have a picture me taken on the Swilken bridge. The place is special and I'll never forget it.
This is where i live and work around the course in the club houses etc and st.andrews on a weekly basis, sit and have my lunch some days next to course and still get lost in thoughts just watching the course and people playing it.
You still not played it yet ?
Definitely. St. Andrews, carnoustie, Royal portrush and county down 👌🏻 absolutely beautiful
On my Bucket list. One of these days I will play it.
Golf meccaness 👍😀
Would definitely love to play it, whether I will or not is a different matter. Maybe one day.
I'm American and that is by far the number one course on my bucket list
Great memories picture Before cell phones 22 years ago 50th birthday surprise from my wife best birthday gift ever🙀👍🏌😻🎂
Cheers from NorCal
I’ve been to St. Andrews many time to watch golf but sadly never played, I live 5 minutes from trump international in Aberdeen and again never played it, I need to start appreciating what I have on my doorstep.
Saw it as a teenager on holiday a long time ago and was struck how much the TV view of Golf was so much flatter than real life.
played it and was great experience. problem I had was we teed off at 4:30pm in may and with all golfers being told to "hit it left" we found a number of holes you could be looking for 8 balls in a 60 yard area.
super golf Mecca though! love to play it when it looks as quiet as your footage
Love St Andrews, first went there aged 16 to watch the 1990 Open and watched Faldo! Been to several Opens and followed Tiger, always great to watch these guys practice on the range before a tournament, would love to play the Old Course, PlayStation is as close as I’ve got so far!!
Would love to play there. Definite bucket list..
The Old Course is great, but it's all about the history and experience. You wouldn't swap that 1st and 18th tee experience on a summers night, but it's not the best course out there. Kingsbarns is the best track, gotta play that, Mark. I did play The Old Course on the same day as Obama a couple years back though, an absolute scorcher :) Teed off about 15mins after he finished and it was quite busy! Playing the 18th when the shadows are getting long is something I'll never forget.
Been going to St Andrews since I was 5. Love the New Course. The inside of the clubhouse has so much history, it’s like time stopped in 1890, the room where they have winners dinner is tiny. The highlight for me though is always walking on the 1st and 18th fairways with literally 100s of people.
notformebeaky I meant the R&A Clubhouse, got a tour off a member.
notformebeaky Your right, the reading room was nice and the locker room was impressive enough, that dining room must be like a 100degrees when it’s full😉 Didn’t really enjoy the stuffiness though
@notformebeaky what got me was how far away from the popular game the place was, whilst claiming to hold its traditions.
My son and I have played the Old Course twice. We missed the ballot the third time there. The building behind the 18th is now condos, but used to be University Hall. Also, the New and Jubilee Courses are good. The town itself is fantastic.