St Andrews Links, Golf course in St Andrews, Scotland
St Andrews Links is a site with seven publicly accessible golf courses in Fife, with the Old Course featuring deep bunkers, shared greens and a stone bridge. The facility stretches along the coast, and the fairways follow the natural contour of the dune landscape with sandy ground and low grass.
Since the 15th century, people have been playing golf on this site, making it one of the oldest places worldwide for the sport. Over the centuries, the courses evolved from informal playing areas to the present facilities that regularly host international competitions.
The name "Old Course" refers to the long playing tradition, and golfers from all parts of the world travel here to play on the same fairways as earlier generations. The stone bridge at the 18th hole has become a popular spot where players pause briefly and have their photograph taken before completing their round.
The site is accessible throughout the year, with wind and weather potentially affecting the playing experience depending on the season. Instruction, rental equipment and dining are available at the clubhouse, and reservations for the Old Course often proceed through a ballot system or advance booking.
Management by a public trust ensures that local residents continue to exercise their ancient right to play golf here. Some greens are shared by two different holes, leading to unusual playing situations and requiring special consideration.
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