When the conversation turns to iconic golf courses in the United Kingdom, Carnoustie Golf Links often comes into the limelight. Established in 1560 and situated in the town of Carnoustie, Scotland, this municipal links course has long captivated the imaginations of golfers worldwide. With a total of 59 holes divided among its different courses - The Championship Course, The Burnside, and The Buddon Links - Carnoustie stands as a testament to golfing heritage and excellence. The Championship Course alone has been the stage for eight Open Championships, two Women's Opens, and two Seniors Opens, making it one of the very few courses in the UK to have that honour. It even bagged the title of Best Golf Course in Scotland over £100 in 2018 and was voted The Best Golf Course in the World in 2019.
The Burnside Course, often seen as the understudy to the Championship Course, presents its own unique charm. From the back tees, it is a demanding course filled with character. Specific holes, notably the 5th and 14th, present players with dramatic challenges, often pushing them to their limits just to make par 3. In a similar vein, the finishing holes are notoriously challenging. The 17th is a par 4 that's considered one of the hardest of its kind in all of golf, and the 18th hole has crushed many dreams with its out-of-bounds fence.
On the other hand, The Buddon Links offers a well-rounded experience with a blend of links-style and tree-lined holes. This course, designed by Dave Thomas and Peter Alliss in 1981 on former Ministry of Defence land, has holes named after famous battles - a nod to the military, Carnoustie's neighbours since the 1830s. And if you're into nature, the lakes on the 11th hole teem with local wildlife, adding a serene backdrop to your golfing adventure.
But it is not just the courses that make Carnoustie special. The clubhouse is fully equipped with a bar, restaurant, and visitor lockers. The Pro Shop, run by Professional Keir McNicol, offers a wide range of services including tuition, custom fitting, and a performance studio. Practice facilities are robust with putting greens and chipping areas, and the course serves as the home base for several golf clubs including Caledonia Golf Club, Carnoustie Golf Club, and Dalhousie Golf Club.
As a venerated part of golfing history, Carnoustie Golf Links invites players to partake in its time-honoured traditions and modern amenities. From hosting legendary tournaments to providing top-notch facilities, this course encapsulates the very spirit of golf. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic amateur, Carnoustie offers an unforgettable experience that you'll talk about long after the last putt drops.
