Is the weather bad in Scotland and Ireland?
Not at all, it does not rain much in Scotland especially on the East Coast of the country, where St Andrews is located, it is much dryer than the West Coast. It is never a strong rain, mostly showers. However, Ireland has more rainfall than Scotland, but less on the coast line where the links courses are.
When is it the best time to visit and play golf in United-Kingdom & Ireland?
We advise our customers to come between April and October. But the prices during winter are two or three times less than during the high season and most of the golf courses are still in great condition.
Is a trip to United Kingdom & Ireland expensive?
No, as the pound is weak compared to the Euro and other currencies. For the last few years, Ireland has really decreased its prices.
How long in advance do I need to plan my golf trip?
We advise you to plan well in advance, at least 2 months before, to be able to get tee times and the type of accommodation you want. But, if you wish to book 1 week before, we always have last minute possibilities to book golf courses and accommodation. **For the Old Course, we advise you to book guaranteed tee times at the beginning of October for the following year.
Is it possible to play the famous Old Course at St Andrews?
The answer is yes, there are 3 ways to play the course:
– Guaranteed tee times: They are sold as a package of 2 golf courses, for example, the Old Course plus another public course from St Andrews which are the New Course, the Jubilee Course and the Castle Course. They are more expensive but it is the only possibility to play the Old Course with a guaranteed Tee Time. They have to be purchased well in advance as they are available the year before around October/November for the following year. Our agency has an average 15 guaranteed tee times every year.
– Through the ballot: For parties of 2 or more, we will enter you 2 days before you wish to play the course in the ballot system before 2pm and we will know after 5pm if you have been picked or not. Our agency achieves a high percentage of success every year, around 80%. Ask our team for favorable days.
– On the day: For one person on their own, it’s not possible to enter the ballot, the only way is to go and see the starter the day you wish to play and he will try to place you with other golfers. There are always around 25 spaces left for players on their own everyday or for golfers who have been unsuccessful through the ballot. Obviously, the earlier you go the better the chances are for you to play as it is on a first come first serve basis.
Which handicap do I need to play golf courses?
The handicap limit to play the Old Course is 24 for men and 36 for women (handicap certificate will be asked by the starter). Other prestigious golf courses usually ask for a maximum handicap of 28 for men and 36 for women. Otherwise the big majority of golf courses do not ask for a handicap limit.
Is the Old Course the only course in St Andrews?
No, there are another 6 public golf courses very close to the Old Course and another 20 Top courses in less than 40 minutes by car.
Do you recommend a caddy?
Yes, we do recommend, especially to play prestigious courses. They do not only carry the bag, most of them are professionals. Their knowledge is important for players new to those links courses to enjoy their experience. They give you the right lines and the distance on every shots, they help you to choose the right club and they tell great stories about the place. The fee is usually £45 plus tips. Worth the money!
Is it easy to travel to Scotland?
Scotland`s main airports are: Edinburgh, Glasgow International, Glasgow Prestwick, Aberdeen and Inverness. You will find lots of direct flights going to those airports at a good value for money. The closest airport to St Andrews is Edinburgh airport, only 1 hour by car.
