The Old Course at St Andrews is a public course, open to all. Demand is the only real obstacle. There are a few ways to get a tee time, and the right one depends on how certain you need to be.
The daily ballot
The ballot is the classic route. It is drawn 48 hours before play. You give your names, home club and handicaps online, by phone or at a clubhouse before 2pm, two days before the day you want to play. You need at least two players and no more than four.
Nothing is guaranteed. If your trip is built around the Old Course, have a plan for the days you miss out.
Advance packages
St Andrews Links sells a limited number of advance options. For 2027, its Swilcan Package guarantees a tee time on the Old Course plus another of its courses. Single golfers have their own arrangements. Check St Andrews Links for what is still available.
Authorised Providers
St Andrews Links appoints Authorised Providers, tour operators and local accommodation providers, who offer packages with guaranteed Old Course tee times through the high season from April to October. It is the most certain way to plan a trip around a fixed date.
These SIGTOA members describe themselves as Authorised Providers on their profiles:
Other members may offer the same, so it is worth asking.
Green fees for 2027
St Andrews Links lists these adult Old Course fees:
- 1 to 18 April: £265
- 19 April to 17 October: £380
- 18 to 31 October: £265
Fees can change, and a package price will include much more than the round. Check St Andrews Links for the latest rules, including handicap requirements, before you travel.
Can’t get on?
Fife has plenty more to offer, and St Andrews Links has seven other courses. See our guide to golf in Fife.