St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer

| | | |

For the avid golfer seeking to uncover the storied past of the St Andrews Old Course, the History Tour is an absolute must. Led by a professional guide and historian, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and legendary tales of one of the world’s most iconic golf courses.

From its origins in the 15th century to its present-day status as a golfing mecca, you will be captivated by the fascinating stories that have shaped the Old Course’s legacy. But that’s not all – the tour also includes the expertise of a professional caddie from the 1980s Old Course 1A, providing valuable insights and tips.

With a limited capacity, this intimate and personalized experience is not to be missed. So, lace up your golf shoes and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the hallowed grounds of the St Andrews Old Course.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Historical Tours In St Andrews.

Good To Know

  • Led by a professional guide and historian, providing expert knowledge and insights into the rich history of the St Andrews Old Course.
  • Includes the expertise of a professional caddie from the 1980s Old Course 1A, offering valuable tips and advice for avid golfers.
  • Limited capacity for an intimate and personalized experience, ensuring a high level of attention and interaction with the guide and caddie.
  • Begins at the Hotel du Vin in St Andrews, allowing visitors to enjoy hotel amenities and grab refreshments before the tour, and concludes at the iconic Jigger Inn near the 17th green of the Old Course, offering food and beverages with a view of the 17th fairway.

Tour Details

Join us on the St Andrews Old Course History Tour and learn about the rich heritage and fascinating stories of one of the world’s most iconic golf courses.

The tour lasts for approximately two hours and begins at the Hotel du Vin in St Andrews. Before the tour starts, visitors have the option to enjoy the hotel amenities and grab refreshments.

A professional guide, equipped with a wireless audio receiver and whisper earphone, will lead the tour, offering valuable insights into the course’s history.

The tour concludes at the Jigger Inn, a renowned hotel located near the 17th green of the Old Course. Here, participants can relax with food and beverages while enjoying the view of the 17th fairway.

The tour can accommodate a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.

Meeting Point

St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer - Meeting Point

Located at Hotel du Vin St Andrews, 40 The Scores, St Andrews KY16 9AS, UK, the meeting point for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour sets the stage for an unforgettable journey into the past. Here’s what you can expect at the meeting point:

  • Richard, your professional guide and historian, will greet you outside the Hotel du Vin St Andrews.

  • The hotel is open to the public, so feel free to enjoy refreshments before the tour (not included).

  • The tour will end at The Jigger Inn, just along from the Old Course 17th Green.

  • After the tour, you can relax with beverages and food by the 17th fairway (not included).

  • The tour allows a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

With this meeting point, you can start your tour in a comfortable and welcoming environment, ready to explore the fascinating history of the St Andrews Old Course.

End Point

St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer - End Point

At the conclusion of the St Andrews Old Course History Tour, your journey through time and golfing heritage culminates at the iconic Jigger Inn, just a short distance from the legendary Old Course’s 17th Green. This historic pub, located on Old Station Road, is a beloved spot for golfers and history enthusiasts alike.

After enjoying the rich history of the Old Course, you can relax and unwind at the Jigger Inn while enjoying a refreshing beverage. Indulge in a pint of local craft beer or savor a classic cocktail as you take in the stunning views of the 17th fairway. If you’re in the mood for more substantial fare, the Jigger Inn also offers a delicious menu of traditional Scottish dishes.

However, if you prefer to grab refreshments before the tour, the nearby Hotel du Vin is open to the public and provides a perfect spot to enjoy some pre-tour refreshments.

Whether you choose to relax at the Jigger Inn or enjoy refreshments at Hotel du Vin, your St Andrews Old Course History Tour will end on a high note.

Tour Restrictions

Please take note of the following restrictions for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour:

  • Baby strollers/carriages aren’t suitable for the tour.
  • Crutches, walking frames, and mobility scooters are also not suitable.
  • There’s nowhere to leave these items or golf clubs during the tour, so make alternative arrangements.
  • The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with new knee/hip replacements or sprained ankles.
  • It’s important to consider these restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

When planning your visit to the St Andrews Old Course History Tour, be sure to keep these restrictions in mind. While the tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the course, it’s important to prioritize safety and comfort.

Avoid bringing baby strollers or relying on crutches or mobility aids during the tour. Make alternative arrangements for storing any necessary items, as there will be no designated area for them.

Plus, if you have recently undergone knee or hip surgery or have a sprained ankle, it’s best to postpone the tour until you have fully recovered.

Cancellation Policy

To ensure a seamless experience, please familiarize yourself with the cancellation policy for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour.

The refund policy states that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. However, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience start time, the amount you paid won’t be refunded.

It’s important to note that any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience start time won’t be accepted. So, if you need to cancel or make any changes to your tour, it’s best to do so well in advance.

We understand that circumstances can change, but please keep in mind the cancellation policy to avoid any inconvenience.

Professional Guide

Now let’s turn our attention to the knowledgeable professional guide who’ll accompany you on the St Andrews Old Course History Tour.

This guide isn’t just any guide, but a historian and experienced caddie who knows the ins and outs of the Old Course like the back of their hand. With their qualifications and expertise, they’ll provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the course’s rich history, including its famous moments and legendary players.

Armed with a personal wireless audio receiver and whisper earphone, the guide ensures that even larger groups can hear every fascinating detail.

You’ll meet the guide outside the Hotel du Vin St Andrews, and together, you’ll embark on a journey through time, exploring the storied past of this iconic golf course.

Tour Maximum Capacity

The maximum capacity for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour is 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience. This limited number of participants allows for a more engaging and interactive tour, where guests can ask questions and receive individual attention from the professional guide/historian. The small group size also allows for better mobility and flexibility during the tour, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the sights and stories of the historic Old Course. To give you a better idea of the tour capacity, here is a table showcasing the suitable travelers for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour:

Suitable TravelersNot Suitable Travelers
Golf enthusiastsBaby strollers/carriages
History buffsCrutches, walking frames, mobility scooters
Small groupsThose with new knee/hip replacements, sprained ankles, etc.

Common Questions

Is Transportation Provided to and From the Meeting Point and End Point of the Tour?

Transportation services are not provided for the St Andrews Old Course History Tour. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point and end point of the tour.

Are Refreshments Included in the Tour Package?

Refreshments are not included in the tour package, but guests are welcome to have refreshments at the Hotel du Vin before the tour. Food options are available at The Jigger Inn, where the tour finishes.

Can I Bring My Golf Clubs on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own golf clubs on the tour. However, it’s important to remember proper golf course etiquette and be mindful of other players. Alternatively, you can inquire about golf club rental options.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour, so guests can capture memorable moments. As for attire, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available Along the Tour Route?

Restroom facilities are available along the tour route for convenience. Plus, transportation availability ensures that participants can easily access these facilities whenever needed throughout the duration of the tour.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, the St Andrews Old Course History Tour offers golf enthusiasts a unique and immersive experience into the rich history of the famous Old Course.

Led by a professional guide and historian, participants can explore fascinating stories and legends, while receiving valuable insights and tips from a former caddie.

With a personalized and intimate setting, this tour is a must-do for any avid golfer looking to explore the origins of the game at the iconic St Andrews Old Course.