The St Andrews Golf Club

Here in the States we typically think of a golf club as a place, not as the members. We think of it as being a specific golf course, and that any one course is only affiliated with one golf club. That ain’t necessarily so in Scotland. In a previous post I mentioned the two clubs that jointly manage the Leven Links. St Andrews in no different. The golf courses at St Andrews are not managed by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in spite of their imposing clubhouse right behind the first tee. The St Andrews Links Trust was created by an act of Parliament in 1974 to insure wide access to the links golf courses by all. Members from a number of different golf clubs play golf on the St Andrews links.

One of these is the St Andrews Golf Club, located on Link Road across from the 18th fairway. A unique feature of this club is that they welcome golfers to become temporary members. For £5 you can become a member for a day and £25 will get you a week long membership. Will this membership get you preferred access on the Old Course? I’m afraid not, but it will get you access to the club restaurant and changing rooms if you make arrangements in advance. (email: sec@thestandresgolfclub.co.uk).

Another St Andrews option is the New Course Clubhouse (left). This facility was built in 1995 to provide changing rooms and dining options for visitors to the links and it's every bit as nice as upscale resort facilities in the States. Before it was built it was trunk slamming and a walk to the nearest pub to get a bite after your round, without a shower. Golfers are welcome to use the changing rooms at no charge, though you’ll need a £1 coin for a deposit for individual locker keys. For a £1.50 fee you can also use the lockers for overnight club storage (see the folks at the information desk on the bottom floor).

Many clubs make you a temporary member on the day of your round. You are awarded full privileges of the course and clubhouse, including use of the lockers, showers, and lounge bar. If you remember to bring a jacket and tie you just might get invited into the members dining room. Be aware that most clubs have a dress code typically described as ‘smart casual’, consistent with private clubs in the US. No jeans or athletic shoes, shirts must have collars, no athletic shirts (football jerseys etc.). You can’t go wrong with a golf shirt (± sweater or vest), khaki pants, and leather shoes. Remember to remove your hat when entering the facility. If you respect the rules of their club you will be treated very well indeed.

ODL


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