Located directly on the North Sea coast only six miles from St. Andrews, Kingsbarns Golf Links is without doubt one of the most breathtaking courses in the world. Though it only opened for general play in July 2000, it is not untrue to say that the links appears to have been in existence for centuries as golf was played on this very site as far back as 1793. Kingsbarns Golf Links is a real one of a kind and contrasts with Scotland's other famous links courses in that it is a modern, man-made development. The significance of Kingsbarns was highlighted by Sir Michael Bonallack, five time British Amateur Champion and past captain of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, when he indicated that "Kingsbarns might well be one of the last true seaside links sites capable of development in Scotland".
With views of the ocean and the high tide foaming over the rocks below, one quickly realises that this links is special and while nothing can replace the Old Course at St Andrews, Kingsbarns Links is infinitely more scenic and is a worthy spiritual descendant of its historical neighbour. Despite its relative youth in golf course terms, Kingsbarns already plays annual host to the Dunhill Links Championship, which is played over three golf courses (the other two being the Old Course and Carnoustie Championship Links). And don't be too surprised when you hear the British Open and Kingsbarns mentioned in the same sentence. It's that good!
Measuring a whopping 7,126 from the championship tees, the links generally plays from the medal tees at a substantial yardage of 6,652. The sea figures prominently on every hole and one's senses are continually pricked with the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean spray. The links boasts spacious fairways, which roll and twist through majestic dune ridges and hollows, while it's large inviting greens present the golfer with subtle challenges. Combined with true links turf and associated contours, Kingsbarns Golf Links is distinctly playable but challenging the end.
To leave the final words on this majestic links to Sir Michael Bonallack would be appropriate - "Mere words cannot convey just how extraordinary the place is. It must be seen to be believed and once seen, it will never be forgotten". Remember the name Kingsbarns Links, as you will be hearing and reading so much more about this course in the years and decades to come.
This elegant restaurant overlooks the formal gardens. The daily-changing menu offers four courses and Modern Scottish cooking majors on stunning, cutting-edge presentation.
Enjoy some fine dining at this traditional grill serving elegant British combinations from an open plan kitchen. The beautiful views over the golf course and bay add to the occasion.
The Inn at Lathones, Largoward, St Andrews KY9 1JE
Full of character, this cosy restaurant boasts a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere. Diners can select from one of three menus, all of which offer modern Scottish and European cuisine.
In a restaurant, which would not be out of place in a French village, the menu reflects the best of local Scottish produce at any given time. The wine-list, by the way, is a real treat.
Cellar Restaurant, 24 East Green, Anstruther KY10 3AA
Tel: + 44 1333 310378. Fax: + 44 1333 312544.
Situated south of St. Andrews, this renowned seafood restaurant is accessed by a cobbled courtyard. The low ceiling and exposed beams of the main dining room add to the ambience.
Located directly on the North Sea coast only six miles from St. Andrews, Kingsbarns Golf Links is without doubt one of the most breathtaking courses in the world. Though it only opened for general play in July 2000, it is not untrue to say that the links appears to have been in existence for centuries as golf was played on this very site as far back as 1793. Kingsbarns Golf Links is a real one of a kind and contrasts with Scotland's other famous links courses in that it is a modern, man-made development. The significance of Kingsbarns was highlighted by Sir Michael Bonallack, five time British Amateur Champion and past captain of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, when he indicated that "Kingsbarns might well be one of the last true seaside links sites capable of development in Scotland".
