Overview:

Carnoustie Golf Links Championship Course has hosted The Open Championship eight times. Past Champions include Tommy Armour, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Tom Watson, and Francesco Molinari most recently in 2018. Ranked #32 in the world by GOLF Magazine, Carnoustie has the reputation of being the most difficult of the 10 Open rota courses.

Among the most famous Carnoustie Opens was 1999 when Jean Van de Velde experienced “Les Miserables” and blew his three-shot lead on the 72nd hole and allowed local star Paul Lawrie to win in a playoff. Along with The St Andrews Old Course and Kingsbarns, Carnoustie also co-hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Golf in Carnoustie dates back over four centuries to 1560. The present Championship Links, originally designed by Allan Robertson became playable in 1842. Then extended to 18 holes by Old Tom Morris in 1867. The final modifications which polished the course for its first Open Championship, were made by James Braid in 1926. Besides the wind, its “Carnastie” reputation comes from the penal bunkering and out of bounds sitting closely along several holes. Also, the Barry Burn (creek) which winds through fairways and in front of many green complexes. 

The Championship links is a par 70-72 and stretches from 6144 to 6948 yards. Most visitors use the 6595 par 70 set of visitor tees. Trust us: it’s all you can handle!

Carnoustie is now considered one of the finest conditioned courses in Scotland. The new Links House encompasses the Pro Shop, Performance Center, Restaurant, Caddie Master and more. Carnoustie is located about a 50-minute drive from most St Andrews hotels, although accommodation is also available nearby.