Slip away to five-star luxury and immerse yourself in the unique allure of the Old Course Hotel – a haven of opulence with a rich sporting history. St Andrews is hailed as the “home of golf”, and the Old Course is central to its claim. Considered the oldest golf course in the world, it’s where the sport was first played 600 years ago.
The resort sits upon the 17th hole of this iconic location – looking out over the sprawling green and beyond, with stunning panoramic views of the West Sands Beach and the picturesque Fife coastline. But chasing a hole-in-one isn’t the only reason to visit the Old Course Hotel; there’s plenty more to keep you busy over a long weekend.
Spa and wellness
Relax and rejuvenate at the resort’s award-winning Kohler Waters Spa – the only one of its kind outside the US. The spa’s ethos centres around the healing properties of water and boasts a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, invigorating hydrotherapy pool, soothing steam room, hot sauna, and refreshing cold plunge pool.
It would be a shame to pass up on a treatment at this wellness oasis, especially when there are such unique offerings on the menu. Let your troubles melt away with a CBD-enhanced massage, revive tired feet with a reflexology session or opt for a skin-brightening Vitamin C facial. There's also the tempting option of a tailor-made golfer’s massage after a day on the green. This recuperating rub-down uses golf balls to provide pressure to tense muscles.
Eating and drinking
You’re spoilt for choice with eight restaurants and bars at the Old Course Hotel, each offering a distinct vibe. Don’t miss out on the renowned Road Hole Restaurant, named after the famed 17th hole of the Old Course, where you’ll find a fine dining experience against a backdrop of sweeping coastline vistas.
The menu showcases the best local ingredients Scotland has to offer, with lobster from St Andrews bay, fillet steak or venison served up with an impressive selection of wines and whiskies. It’s no surprise that this eatery has earned three AA Rosettes.
The Old Course Hotel even has its own quaint pub, the Jigger Inn, housed in a former stationmaster’s lodge that dates back to the 1850s. Cosy up by the crackling open-hearth fire and sip a pint of the tavern’s signature Jigger Ale, served exclusively in this watering hole.
Explore St Andrews
St Andrews is home to charming cobbled streets, ancient ruins, manicured gardens and, believe it or not, a secret underground nuclear bunker.
Bundle up in warm clothes and take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Fife Coastal Path, and if you fancy an adrenalin fix, try out the Elie Chainwalk where you can traverse the rocky terrain of jagged cliffs while clutching onto hanging chains.
After braving the brisk sea air, it might be time to warm back up. And what better way to get into the Scottish spirit than with a distillery tour? Follow the liquor’s journey from grain to glass, and savour a few drams in the process. If whisky isn’t your poison, there are gin tours too. Become a distiller for the day and blend your own botanical bottle to take home – the perfect St Andrews souvenir.
Getting there
Flying from London Heathrow to Dundee Airport takes two hours, and the resort is a short 30-minute drive from there. Or take the six-hour train ride from Kings Cross to Leuchars Station, the Old Course Hotel is only 10 minutes from the station.
Visit the Old Course Hotel website to find out more, follow on Instagram and Facebook (@oldcoursehotel), and take advantage of the resort’s winter offer – book three nights and pay for two* by entering the code ESCAPE.
*The offer is subject to availability, and runs from November 1 2023 to March 31 2024 (excluding December 24 2023 to January 1 2024). It’s available for all room and suite categories, excluding the Penthouse.