St. Andrews 2000 doesn’t quite emulate its namesake but this Desmond Muirhead design is a monster par 74 measuring 7,700 yards from the back tees which includes two huge par 6’s. This is not one for the hacker!

This course requires both power and accuracy to score well and even the lower handicappers will find it quite challenging with the cleverly placed water hazards, numerous fairways bunkers, elevated tees and greens and split level fairways. Some would say the course is a bit “gimmicky”, especially the two 800 yards par 6’s but this is a remarkable course with some very special design touches. The 15th is a good example as you play from a 3-tiered tee box, with great views all around, towards an unusual split-level fairway and beware of the rocky outcrop on 18 which can send your ball in any direction if you are unfortunate enough to hit it.

You will probably need every club in your bag, even those long irons you hate, as you need to be very accurate to navigate the many hazards. Even if you don’t score as well as you would like this course will leave a lasting impression and plenty of anecdotes to share with your friends. This course is very popular so it will be crowded at weekends and public holidays so you should expect some delays.