St Andrews Links Trust is in advanced discussions to take over a long-term lease of The Duke’s Course, adding an eighth championship layout to its stewardship at the Home of Golf.
The plans, which are subject to finalisation, would see the Links Trust take over the management of the Duke’s course later this year from the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, owned by US-based Kohler.
The clubhouse, driving range and other facilities at the Duke’s site would also come under control of the Links Trust, with the agreement providing additional playing opportunities for links ticket holders and visitors to St Andrews.
The Duke’s, which is located three miles outside of St Andrews, and enjoys views over the town, boasts an 18-hole heathland layout designed by five-time Open Champion Peter Thomson. With teeing options enabling it to be played from 5,216 to 7,512 yards, the course has two loops of nine holes and is renowned for its blow-out style bunkers, rolling fairways and undulating greens.
The Duke’s has hosted a number of elite amateur events down the years, the most recent of which was the Scottish Men’s Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship in 2019.
The agreement would mark a significant addition to the portfolio of the Links Trust, which currently oversees seven world-renowned courses in St Andrews, including the Old Course as well as three clubhouses, a golf academy and five retail outlets.
Neil Coulson, Chief Executive of St Andrews Links Trust, said: “This would be an exciting opportunity to expand the range of exceptional golfing experiences we offer. The addition of The Duke’s Course to our portfolio would increase tee time availability for our ticket holders and visitors while continuing to uphold the traditions and excellence synonymous with St Andrews.
“We have a strong and long-standing relationship with the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa as our close neighbours in St Andrews and as positive talks continue, we hope to be able to announce more details soon.”
Phyllis Wilkie, General Manager at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, said: “We are pleased that The Duke’s could play a role in satisfying the high demand for golf in St Andrews. The inclusion of The Duke’s in the St Andrews Links Trust roster would provide ticket holders and visitors with yet another outstanding golf experience.
We look forward to progressing these positive discussions.”
The announcement follows a historic tradition in St Andrews Links of adding golf courses to increase playing opportunities. Originally starting with just the Old Course, the New, Jubilee, Eden, Strathyrum, Balgove and Castle Course have been added to the roster.
As part of the proposed agreement, there would be no changes for current members or visitors with existing course bookings in 2025.