The final major of 2024 is fast approaching, with top golfers preparing to compete for the claret jug at Royal Troon in Scotland. Golf’s original major dates back to 1860 and has been hosted at 14 different courses in the United Kingdom, providing memorable moments and unforgettable experiences for players and fans alike. As the excitement builds for The Open Championship, it’s worth highlighting some of the finest links courses in golf’s homeland that every golfer should visit.
The Old Course at St. Andrews, known as the “Home of Golf,” has hosted 30 Open Championships and is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. With its double greens, iconic tee shots, and stunning views, St. Andrews offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience that every player should have at least once in their lifetime. The history and prestige of this course make it a bucket-list destination for golfers around the world.
Carnoustie, located north of St. Andrews, is known for its challenging layout and has hosted The Open 8 times. Despite its relatively short yardage, Carnoustie is considered one of the toughest courses on the Open rota, offering a test of skill and resilience for players. The course’s signature features, including the large white Carnoustie Golf Hotel, add to its allure and reputation as a top links course in Scotland.
Muirfield, situated near the host of the Scottish Open, is a classic links layout that has hosted the Championship 16 times. With narrow fairways, penal rough, and strategic pot bunkers, Muirfield presents a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience. While the course lacks sweeping ocean views, its reputation as a premier tee time destination in Scotland makes it a must-play course for golf aficionados.
Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland offers 36 holes of pure links golf against a backdrop of ocean and cliffs. Hosting The Open twice in its history, Royal Portrush is a scenic and challenging course that will host the Championship again in 2025. With its picturesque setting and world-class facilities, Royal Portrush provides golfers with a memorable and enjoyable golfing experience.
Royal Troon, this year’s host of The Open Championship, features the famous “Postage Stamp” par-3 hole, known for its small green surrounded by bunkers. With a mix of challenging holes and stunning views, Royal Troon offers a world-class golfing experience for players of all skill levels. The course’s rich history and reputation as a major championship venue make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
Royal Birkdale, located near Liverpool, is consistently ranked among the top courses in the UK and has hosted The Open 10 times. Known for its challenging layout, blind shots, and dunes, Royal Birkdale provides a unique test for golfers looking to experience world-class links golf. With the Championship returning in 2026, the course continues to attract players from around the world seeking a memorable golfing experience.
Royal St. George’s in Kent, England, is a renowned Championship layout that has hosted 15 Open Championships. With its expansive course, dunes, heavy rough, undulating fairways, and deep bunkers, Royal St. George’s offers a challenging yet rewarding golfing experience. While not as well-known as some other courses, it is a hidden gem that every golfer should consider adding to their bucket list.
To play these iconic courses, it is essential to plan and book your trip well in advance. Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR, the world’s #1 rated golf tour operator, recommends booking your trip 12-18 months ahead to secure tee times at the courses you desire. With their expertise in UK & Ireland golf trips, Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR can tailor a golfing experience that includes both big-name courses and hidden gems, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip for you and your group. Start planning your dream golf vacation today with Golfbreaks by PGA TOUR.
