The world's best-known golf course is public links land, with a much older civic story than its clubhouse suggests.
Common ground
A 1552 charter linked to Archbishop John Hamilton records the townspeople's right to play golf and other games on the links. It is the earliest specific documentary evidence for golf here; the later legal history of public access is more complex, so the charter should not be made to prove more than it does.
On most non-tournament Sundays the Old Course is normally closed to play and the public can walk the links. On playing days, treat it as an active course and follow staff directions rather than promising access to the bridge.
What to look for while you're here
- The 1st tee and 18th green beside the R&A clubhouse.
- Grannie Clark's Wynd, the public road crossing the course.
- The Swilcan Bridge, whose exact age is unknown despite confident legends.
Before you go
- Never step onto an active course without following marshal or staff guidance.
- Tournament weeks can override normal Sunday access.