Fairmont St Andrews

Former Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance has put his hand to this par-72 layout which now tips the scale at more than 7,200 yards from the championship markers. The venue has hosted the Final Qualifying for the Open Championship as well as the Scottish Seniors Open, plus the inaugural Scottish Championship in 2020 won by Adrian Otaegui. The Torrance is a course which is sure to test all levels of golfers.

Following a recent multi-million pound refurbishment in 2009, involving re-designing eight holes and rebuilding all 63 bunkers, the Torrance is now one of Scotland’s most dramatic and challenging courses. A new irrigation system and major drainage works have made the course playable in all but the worst of weathers.

The dramatic cliff top course, which overlooks the Old Grey Toon of St Andrews, is protected not only by length, but also by strategically placed bunkers which will snare any misplaced approaches. This is most obviously seen on the par 5’s, where those not able to go for the green in two will be faced with some tough questions as to where to leave their approach to the green.

With three of the finest finishing holes in Scotland, those finishing with a flourish are sure to reap the rewards of dramatic vistas offered on 16 and 17, while the long climb up to the par 5 18th offers a good birdie opportunity if the wind is helping. The Torrance course certainly acts as a great ambassador to the home of golf.

Signature Hole – No. 17: Par 4, 410 yards (White Tees)

The 17th is a stunning golf hole, with a testing tee shot. Down the entire right hand side of the hole, the out of bounds runs parallel with the coastal trail, before sharply cutting across the front of the green. Golfers should also take caution of the left, where there is a lot of rough. The green itself is guarded by bunkers and with the prevailing wind; the approach is fraught with anticipation of the final score.

Originally designed by Bruce Devlin, The Kittocks, originally known as the Devlin Course, is arguably the prettier of the two courses at Fairmont St Andrews and while many expect an easier challenge than that found on the Torrance Course; the par-72 layout stretches to more than 7,100 yards and is sited on elevated grounds next to the cliff tops, leaving little margin for error.

Devlin’s design is well thought out too and the natural features of the land are used to great effect. Amongst his design is a deep ravine called Kittocks Den, which cuts playfully throughout. As the course meanders along the rugged Fife coastline it sparks into visual life on the back nine with approaches into the 15th framed by the sea, while 16 and 17 are perfectly placed along this beautiful stretch of shore with views towards the famous town of St Andrews. On a sunny day, there are few better places to play a round of golf.

Signature Hole – No. 15: Par 4, 462 yards (Blue Tees)

The par four 15th hole is the highlight of the Kittocks course. At 462 yards off the blue tees, it is easy to see why this hole deserves its status of stroke index 4. The hole doglegs left towards the hanging cliff edge green, making for a dramatic approach shot. The redesigned green sits above the site of a 2000 year old Iron Age fort.

Practice Facilities

Practice targets, an extensive short game area and a large putting green are all on hand, in order to prepare you for your round. Practice balls are available at £6.00 per bucket of 60 balls.

At The Clubhouse

The clubhouse provides a relaxing conclusion to your round, with stunning views overlooking the town of St Andrews and The Eden Estuary. The menu offers golfers favourites as well as authentic local dishes.  The clubhouse is also easily adaptable with its open-plan design, and provides an excellent facility for prize presentations and receptions. Dress code in the clubhouse is resort casual, whilst for those wishing to drink and dine the dress code is relaxed smart casual and a jacket and tie are not required.

Other Information

Farrington’s pro shop is located within the clubhouse. It offers a variety of merchandise with branded clothing from Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Lyle & Scott and Underarmour as well as golfing accessories. During the winter, the shop is open from 08:00 to 16:00, whilst summer hours run from 06:00 to 18:00.

PGA Golf Instruction is also available at Fairmont, and can be arranged to focus on all aspects of the golf swing, the short game and course strategy.

After booking rounds at Torrance or Kittocks, the Fairmont team would be pleased to assist in booking rounds at some of the local courses nearby. This includes the famous Old Course, as well as the Kingsbarns Golf Links and The Castle Course, which are all within 10 minutes of Fairmont.