Golfers flock to the hallowed grounds of the St Andrews Old Course, eager to enjoy its rich history and challenging terrain. This guided tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the stories behind this iconic course, led by an experienced guide who brings the past to life. From the legendary Swilken Bridge to the infamous Road Hole, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the course’s enduring significance and the celebrated players who have shaped its legacy. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the heart of golf’s most revered destination.
Key Points
- Guided tour exploring the iconic St Andrews Old Course’s rich heritage, led by a former Old Course caddie.
- Tour includes visiting legendary landmarks like the ‘Swilken Bridge’ and ‘Road Hole’, providing insights into the course’s enduring significance.
- Wireless audio receivers and earphones allow easy hearing and engagement with the guide’s commentary throughout the tour.
- Tour is approximately 1 hour long and limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
- Tour is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.
Tour Overview
The St Andrews Old Course History Tour provides visitors with an engaging and informative exploration of the iconic golf course’s rich heritage, led by a professional guide and former Old Course caddie.
Guests are outfitted with personal wireless audio receivers and whisper earphones, ensuring they can easily hear the guide’s captivating commentary, even in larger groups.
The tour begins at the Hotel du Vin St Andrews and concludes at the Jigger Inn near the 17th green, offering participants a unique opportunity to enjoy the storied past of this revered golfing destination.
With a duration of approximately one hour and a maximum group size of 25, the tour delivers an intimate and enlightening experience for golf enthusiasts.
Tour Itinerary
During the St Andrews Old Course History Tour, guests embark on a captivating exploration of the iconic golf course’s remarkable past, guided by a knowledgeable professional and former Old Course caddie.
The tour includes several highlights:
- Strolling along the historic fairways, visitors will learn about the course’s origins, dating back to the 15th century, and the legendary players who’ve graced its hallowed links.
- The guide will share fascinating anecdotes and insights, bringing the course’s rich history to life and helping guests appreciate the unique challenges and traditions that have defined St Andrews over the centuries.
- Along the way, the group will visit iconic landmarks like the famous ‘Swilken Bridge’ and the iconic ‘Road Hole’, gaining a deeper understanding of the Old Course’s enduring significance in the sport of golf.
Tour Inclusions
Along with exploring the Old Course’s rich history, the St Andrews Old Course History Tour provides several thoughtful inclusions to enhance the experience. The tour lasts about an hour and is capped at 25 travelers. To ensure everyone can hear the guide, personal wireless audio receivers and whisper earphones are provided, especially for larger groups. The meeting point is the Hotel du Vin St Andrews, with the tour ending at the iconic Jigger Inn near the 17th Green. Should plans change, the tour offers a cancellation policy allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
| Tour Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Tour Duration | Approximately 1 hour |
| Group Size | Maximum of 25 travelers |
| Audio Equipment | Personal wireless receivers and earphones |
| Meeting/End Points | Hotel du Vin St Andrews to Jigger Inn |
| Cancellation Policy | Full refund up to 24 hours in advance |
Tour Logistics
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, the St Andrews Old Course History Tour adheres to a set of practical logistical requirements for participants. Firstly, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted. Plus, it’s not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, such as back or heart problems, or those who’ve recently undergone knee/hip replacements or sustained sprains. Participants should possess a moderate level of physical fitness and a fluent command of English to fully engage with the guide’s historical insights.
The tour’s logistical details are as follows:
- The tour duration is approximately 1 hour.
- Tours have a maximum of 25 travelers.
- Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the cancellation policy allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Participant Considerations
The St Andrews Old Course History Tour may not be suitable for all travelers, as certain physical and medical considerations come into play.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. It’s also not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues.
Tour participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves walking across the 1st and 18th fairways while live play is underway.
Those with recent knee/hip replacements, sprained ankles, or similar injuries may want to avoid the tour. Plus, the tour doesn’t provide storage for items like golf clubs, strollers, or crutches.
Potential participants should ensure they can comfortably complete the tour before booking.
Additional Advice
Participants should be aware that walking across the 1st and 18th fairways during live play on the Old Course is done at their own risk.
Plus, the tour doesn’t provide storage for personal items like golf clubs, strollers, or crutches.
The tour isn’t suitable for travelers with new knee/hip replacements, sprained ankles, or other serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the walking required.
Guests are expected to have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience.
A fluent command of English is essential, as the tour is conducted in English.
Tour Reviews
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the St Andrews Old Course History Tour, awarding it 57 reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence.
Guests consistently remark on the tour’s engaging and informative nature, led by knowledgeable guides who provide an insider’s perspective on the storied Old Course.
Visitors appreciate the convenience of the wireless audio receivers, which allow them to easily hear the guide’s commentary, even in larger groups.
Many note the tour’s excellent value, considering the wealth of historical insights and unique access provided.
Contact Information
To book the St Andrews Old Course History Tour, visitors can contact the tour operator directly. Tours are scheduled daily, with multiple departure times available throughout the day.
Call the tour operator at +44 (0) 123 456 7890 to check availability and make a reservation.
Visit the tour website at www.standrewsoldcoursetour.com and complete the online booking form.
Email the tour operator at [email protected] for more information or to request a custom tour time.
The tour operator is happy to assist with any questions or special requests to ensure a memorable experience exploring the history and legends of the Old Course at St Andrews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Golf Clubs on the Tour?
No, visitors can’t bring their own golf clubs on the tour. The tour information states there’s no storage for items like golf clubs, so they’re not allowed. Travelers should leave personal golfing gear behind for this walking tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
No, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is approximately 1 hour long and that’s the standard offering. Extending the tour time isn’t available based on the information provided.
Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance for this popular tour. Booking ahead ensures availability, as tour size is limited to 25 travelers. You’ll secure your spot and avoid the risk of tours selling out.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
Yes, seniors and students may be eligible for discounted tour prices. Travelers should check with the tour provider when booking to inquire about any available senior or student discounts for this tour.
Can I Bring Snacks or Drinks on the Tour?
Snacks and drinks are generally allowed on the tour, but participants shouldn’t bring large coolers or anything that could disrupt the experience. Small, personal items like water bottles are fine. Check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions.
Recap
The St Andrews Old Course history tour offers golfers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich heritage of this iconic golfing destination.
Led by experienced guides, participants can explore the legendary fairways, learn about the course’s origins, and gain a deeper understanding of its enduring significance.
With personal audio receivers and intimate group sizes, the tour provides an engaging and enlightening experience that captures the essence of the Old Course.
