Duke’s (St Andrews)
The Duke’s is not part of the St Andrews
Links Trust, nor is it a links, but neither fact
should detract from the quality and intrigue
of a course opened in 1995, and designed by
five time Open winner, Peter Thomson. The Duke’s lies inland and
is best described as a muscular heathland course, routed through
gentle hills overlooking the town. The views are impressive
but your focus needs to be on the course. Recently revitalised,
the goal was to take it back to a bygone era and the 118 jagged
bunkers certainly help in that regard. They come in all shapes
and sizes and are never far away as you move over the rumpled,
gorse-drenched landscape. Their white sand is startling as you
stand on the tee or shape up for an approach. They add so much
shape and drama to the holes and plotting your way through
them is hugely rewarding. Trees also frame the course giving it a
very different appearance, feel and challenge to courses nearby.
It’s a charming respite from non-stop links golf. An impressive
clubhouse awaits and the balcony offers wonderful views over
the course, towards St Andrews and the North Sea. Everything
about Duke’s is big… especially the golf experience. There are five
tees so choose with care.
www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/golf/the-dukes
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