Over 14,500 apply for a chance to play historic St Andrews golf course for just £42.50
Only 81 tee times on the Old and Eden Courses were available, but golfers will get another chance to get a coveted spot
More than 14,500 Scottish golfers have jumped at the chance to tee off at the world-famous Old Course in St Andrews for a fraction of the usual cost.
The St Andrews Links Trust, which oversees all seven public courses in the town, has revealed a staggering 14,547 applications were submitted for just 81 four-ball slots on the Old and Eden Courses this May and June. That equates to a one-in-90 shot at playing the iconic Old Course, and for only £42.50.
Usually priced at £340 during peak season, the heavily discounted rounds are part of the Trust's new 'Drive' initiative, designed to broaden access to golf and encourage participation across all ages and skill levels, Scottish Daily Express reports.
The offer launched with 179 tee times available to 716 Scottish golfers, offering up to 87.5 percent off summer green fees across the Old, Castle, Jubilee, and Eden courses.
It marks an attempt to make the Home of Golf more accessible at a time when prices across Scotland's premier courses have soared.
A recent study found average green fees have jumped 67 percent over five years at 30 of the country's best-known venues.
At Gleneagles, for example, a summer round on the King's Course has risen from £140 to £330, while the Duke's Course in St Andrews now costs £220, up from £100.
The first wave of lucky golfers will play today, Wednesday, May 21, with 44 teeing off on the legendary Old Course at just £42.50 each. Others will play the Eden Course for only £9.50.
Later this year, more affordable rounds will be available on the Castle and Jubilee Courses, with September and October slots opening for applications on 6 August.
Under the initiative, players will pay £22.50 to play the Castle Course, usually £180, and £18.75 for the Jubilee Course, which normally costs £150.
According to the Trust, the overwhelming interest shows just how much demand there is among local players to experience St Andrews. Most applications were for two-ball tee times, underscoring the competitive nature of the ballot.
Neil Coulson, Chief Executive of St Andrews Links Trust, said: 'We are delighted so many golfers across Scotland have embraced The Drive and are so keen to come to play our famous courses.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!
If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
'As the Home of Golf, we believe in widening access to the sport and this new initiative is part of our drive to provide opportunities for golfers of all ages and abilities.
"Given the huge number of applications, it is clear the demand is there for Scottish golfers to experience St Andrews Links, and we are already looking at how we can expand the initiative into 2026 and beyond with more times.
'We now look forward to welcoming those who have been successful in applying for tee times on the Old Course and the Eden Course, and hope golfers across Scotland can enjoy some excellent golf.'
While the Drive scheme is still in its pilot phase, the Trust has confirmed it is already exploring ways to grow the programme for next year, potentially offering more players the chance to walk the same fairways as legends.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
31 minutes ago
- Scottish Sun
From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland
Scroll down to find the seven most unique overnight stays across Scotland RELAXING RETREATS From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER has officially arrived, and if a trip abroad isn't in the cards, then there are plenty of unique staycations to choose from. With the season starting off rather dreich, a getaway is often the perfect remedy for the June gloom. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 15 If a trip abroad isn't on the cards, then a staycay is often just as good Credit: Alamy From luxury castle stays to rustic brochs or even monasteries, here are seven of the most unique overnights across the country. Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith, Edinburgh 15 Fingal Hotel is a Northern Lighthouse Board Ship turned floating hotel Credit: Alamy 15 Each room is beautifully decorated Credit: Visit Scotland This former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now a floating hotel, features 22 luxurious cabins that promise an unforgettable stay. Permanently berthed along the picturesque Leith waterfront, this five-star vessel offers breathtaking views of twinkling city lights as you drift off to sleep. Each room is beautifully decorated and comes equipped with a lavish king-size bed and rain showers. The onboard Lighthouse Restaurant is a culinary gem, recognised with 2AA Rosettes. The Brochs of Coigach, Achiltibuie, Highlands 15 The Brochs of Coigach are situated in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Both properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas, The Brochs of Coigach offer an unparalleled luxury getaway. These roundhouse buildings are modern interpretations of ancient brochs, offering views of the rugged coastline and majestic highland mountains. Set on four acres at the end of a private farm track, each broch is decorated with original works from renowned contemporary Scottish artists. Inside Binky Felstead's getaway to Spencer Matthews' lavish Scots family estate Both self-catering properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas, ideal for wildlife watching. Despite their secluded setting, the charming retreats are conveniently close to a highly-rated restaurant. You can also enjoy various activities such as hill climbing, sea kayaking, sailing, surfing and motor cruises. The Monastery, Fort Augustus, Highlands 15 The Monastery in Fort Augustus is a the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge Credit: Visit Scotland 15 It is a spacious one bedroom apartment Credit: Visit Scotland Situated in a striking monastery building in Fort Augustus, this venue is an exceptional retreat to unwind and recharge. The spacious one-bedroom apartment boasts a double-height living room with Gothic-style windows, an open-plan kitchen and a stunning master bedroom offering breathtaking views over Loch Ness. The luxurious bathroom features a soaking tub and underfloor heating for added comfort. On-site amenities include a heated indoor pool, a games room, and captivating vistas. Guests can explore nearby whiskey trails, take scenic countryside walks to the local pub or even try their luck at spotting Nessie. The Suites at Urquhart Church, Elgin, Moray 15 The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church sleep up to 11 guests Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings Credit: Visit Scotland The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church are the perfect place for a bit of peace and quiet. The apartments sleep between two and eleven guests, making it an ideal retreat for couples, families or groups of friends. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings and modern amenities. The converted church is surrounded by nearly two acres of rolling farmland. The picturesque gardens include a pond, a charming waterfall, and a stream that meanders through the landscape. In the Moray region, there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as centuries-old whisky distilleries, the historic Elgin Cathedral and beautiful white sandy beaches. Chaffeur's Apartment, Lochinch Castle, Stranraer 15 The Chaffeur's Apartment is located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle Credit: Alamy 15 It was originally the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur Credit: Visit Scotland The Chaffeur's Apartment, located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle in Stranraer, is a newly refurbished three-bedroom self-catering accommodation. Originally serving as the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur, it maintains some of its historical features while incorporating modern upgrades. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the White Loch and the turreted Lochinch Castle. The apartment includes three spacious bedrooms, an open-plan living room with a log fire and all essential amenities. Guests have unlimited access to the stunning Castle Kennedy Gardens, which are open to the public from 10am to 5pm, February to October. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, such as pony riding, exploring a nearby chocolate factory or mountain biking in the surrounding area. Rua Reidh Lighthouse, Gairloch, Wester Ross 15 Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe Credit: Alamy 15 The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat Credit: Visit Scotland Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe - making it perfect for a secluded getaway. First lit in 1912, this Stevenson lighthouse provides breathtaking views across the Minch to Skye, the Shiants and the Outer Hebrides. The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat featuring two ensuite bedrooms, both with stunning sea views. It's a dream destination for nature lovers as sightings of whales, dolphins and basking sharks are not uncommon. Bracken Treehouse, St Andrews, Fife 15 Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway Credit: Alix McIntosh 15 It features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled among the treetops, Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway set in an ancient 36-acre woodland. It sleeps two guests and features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light. Modern amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a flushing toilet and a shower with panoramic views of the surrounding canopy. While it offers a serene and tranquil retreat in the beautiful Fife countryside, there's easy access to the picturesque East Neuk, St Andrews, and Dundee is just a short distance away.
Scottish Sun
an hour ago
- Scottish Sun
Burger chain which suddenly closed restaurants making shock return to Scots city
They had previously blamed the cost-of-living crisis for closing their previous city restaurant WE'RE BACK Burger chain which suddenly closed restaurants making shock return to Scots city Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR restaurant chain, which abruptly closed several of its Scottish locations earlier this year, is set to make a comeback. Monterey Jack's is renowned for its gourmet American-style burgers, hot dogs, nachos, and cocktails. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 They are set to reopen in Glasgow this month Credit: Scottish Sun 4 Signage has appeared in the shopping centre Credit: Scottish Sun 4 Monterey Jack's announces return of their restaurant to Glasgow Credit: Scottish Sun However, over the past year, the franchise lost several locations, including Dunfermline, East Kilbride, and Glasgow City Centre. At the time, bosses attributed the closures to the cost-of-living crisis, staffing challenges, and tough economic conditions. The chain currently operates six locations across Scotland. But there is good news on the horizon for the burger brand, as it prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Monterey Jack's is set to make a significant return to the country's largest city after losing its central Glasgow location. The new venue is expected to open this month. Signage has already appeared in the St Enoch Centre, indicating a new location is on its way. Large branding has been installed in the shopping precinct's newest food court, accompanied by a "coming soon" sign that reads: "It's happening." The sign also states: "Award-winning, 100 per cent fresh, prime beef burgers. Succulent chicken, gourmet dawgs, delicious fresh shakes and desserts, and a bucket load of sides. You lucky things!" The firm confirmed via its Facebook page that the site is set to open in June 2025 though the exact opening date remains unclear. The Sun tries Wetherspoons' new menu Fans of the chain have taken to the comments to share their excitement about its return. One wrote: "Love MJ's! This will be great when we're shopping in Glasgow!" Another commented: "As centre staff myself, I actually can't wait to try Monterey Jack's UK – never tried it before!" A third added: "I loved the one in Merchant Square. "Such a shame it closed, like most places in there recently. "Looking forward to it opening."
STV News
an hour ago
- STV News
Hundreds apply to compensation scheme set up after armed forces LGBT ban
More than 1,200 Scots have applied for payments from a compensation scheme set up to help members of the military impacted by a ban on LGBT personnel serving in the forces. The Scottish Government confirmed the figure as it vowed to act to ensure those who suffered under the ban – which was in place until 2000 – get 'every penny they are entitled to'. It comes after the UK Government announced in December last year that it was setting up the LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme, with up to £75m set aside for payments. These could see former services personnel who were impacted by the ban receive up to £70,000 each. With veterans also potentially able to receive financial help through the council tax reduction scheme, Finance Secretary Shona Robison said regulations will be changed to ensure any compensation payments do not affect eligibility for this. Robison said: 'As we mark 25 years since the lifting of the ban on LGBT people serving in the armed forces, it is important to recognise the hardship that so many faced, with widespread homophobic bullying and harassment. 'Nothing will make up for the difficulties that LGBT veterans faced, however our action will ensure those in Scotland receive every penny that they are entitled to.' Under the UK Government scheme, those who were dismissed or discharged from the armed forces because of their sexual orientation or gender identity could receive £50,000 in compensation. Former service personnel who suffered harassment, intrusive investigations or even imprisonment could also receive payments of up to £20,000. Peter Gibson, chief executive of Fighting with Pride, said it had 'campaigned for justice for LGBTQ+ veterans for many years, helping to secure reparations and financial recognition of their horrendous treatment prior to 2000'. He added: 'As we slowly see the UK Government deal with those financial payments, protected from benefit and taxation impact, it is wonderful to see the Scottish Government taking action to ensure other benefits such as council tax benefit is also protected too. 'We continue to seek out veterans who were discharged or dismissed from the military to support them, and this news is one more step towards helping those in Scotland.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
