If you're heading to the home of golf to test your game on some of the world's finest courses, one of the best layouts in the area might not already be on your itinerary. Throughout the height of summer, The Duke's in St Andrews can more than hold its own in a corner of the world that is famed for its golf courses. The course has everything you look for when teeing it up, fun to play, stunning views, top of the range practice facilities, catering of the highest order and the elegant Old Course Hotel as an accommodation option for far-travelling guests.
Should you be seeking something slightly different on your trip to St Andrews, the inland heathland course certainly offers it. More than anything, this hidden gem provides players with an enjoyable round of golf that features tremendous wasteland bunkering, akin to the likes found at Ryder Cup venue Whistling Straits. When experiencing this course at the peak of summer, the greens are kept in such immaculate condition that you would be pressed to uncover anything quite as good elsewhere in the region. From the tips, the course measures at a staggering 7,512 yards but don't let that put you off as with five tee boxes, The Duke's can be reduced to 5,215 yards, keeping it fun and playable for all levels of golfer. To accompany the exciting layout, the views The Duke's boasts are nothing short of spectacular due to its setting above the historic town of St Andrews. When you reach the turn, terrific views open up over the town and sea.
Such is the quality of the track, it has played host to the European Amateur Championship, Scottish Men's Amateur Championship and is set to host the PGA Professional Championship later this year.
Away from the course itself, the club provides a first-class golf experience. The elegant clubhouse is the perfect place to relax before and after your round, while the practice facilities include a driving range, putting green and short game area to loosen up before you tee it up. The Duke's clubhouse overlooks the spectacular closing holes and enjoys sweeping views over the town of St Andrews and beyond. Its comfortable, elegant and stylish interior has been designed to the luxurious standards you would expect of an international five-star resort. A popular and relaxed dining venue for golfers, the award-winning Duke's Clubhouse offers a hearty selection of traditional food to warm up any weary golfer's heart. Tune-in to the post-golfing analysis over a pint of beer, or head onto the deck to catch a few rays of sun with a gin and tonic in hand. To coincide with its comprehensive golf offering, the club is extremely accessible to golfers across the nation, being under a two-hour drive from all major cities in Scotland. As a result of its accessibility, the course is the perfect option should you be seeking a short break away to experience the very best that golf in Scotland has to offer. The Old Course Hotel sits in a prime location, located directly adjacent the Old Course and overlooks West Sands beach. If you are seeking to add something slightly different to your pilgrimage to the home of golf this summer then The Duke's has to be on your 'must play' list. You certainly won't regret it. Please note, some facilities may not be fully open due to COVID-19 guidelines.
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