The Duke’s is the course belonging to the famous Old Course Hotel and it’s the only non-links course in St Andrews. It’s situated a couple of miles inland but if you are lucky enough to stay at the hotel they’ll provide transportation to and from the course. Despite the hotel being strategically sited next to the infamous Road Hole, no hotel can guarantee tee times on the Old course. Naturally, the Old Course Hotel decided to build their very own course.
Five times Open Champion Peter Thompson who was affectionately nicknamed the Melbourne Tiger designed The Duke’s course. The Aussie’s motto is that “a golf course should be a bit wild” and he’s certainly created a seriously challenging layout, which measures 7,271 yards from the tips. The Duke’s opened for play in 1995 and the name presumably came from Prince Andrew the Duke of York who hit the first tee shot in an opening match with former Scotland Rugby Captain Gavin Hastings.
A gentle opening par five takes you quickly away from the luxurious clubhouse with the first real challenge coming at the 2nd, a hole called “Drumcarrow”. This tough par four is flanked by trees and a solid drive down the left will leave a tricky long approach shot to a long, narrow green which is very difficult to find in regulation. When you reach the turn, spectacular views open up over the “Auld Grey Toon” and the sea beyond.
“Well” – the 14th hole – has a supremely demanding tee shot which must avoid the burn that wiggles across and then along the fairway towards the green. Apparently, this is where a natural spring was found when the course was originally designed and it now channels into the burn. The 18th provides a great climax to an enjoyable round. The short par four rises gently but gradually from tee to green and you must favour the left side of the fairway or a large oak tree will block you out. Take note of the pin position on this tricky double-tiered green otherwise you’ll struggle to avoid a three putting.
St Andrews is one of only a few places in the world whereby you can enjoy stunning links golf and, just a couple of miles away in the shape of the Duke’s course, outstanding inland golf.