The iconic Old Course in St. Andrews will see strategic updates ahead of the 155th Open Championship in 2027.
St. Andrews is more than just a golf course—it’s the beating heart of the game. As the host of countless historic moments, the Old Course is preparing for its next chapter. In anticipation of the 155th Open Championship in 2027, a series of updates will begin in November 2025, aiming to preserve the balance between tradition and the demands of modern elite golf.
St. Andrews Old Course: Tradition Meets Modernization
The most significant change is added length. Six holes—5, 6, 7, 10, 11, and 16—will be extended, adding a total of 120 meters to the course. The 12th hole will be slightly shortened, bringing the total length to 6,807 meters. New championship tees will be introduced, and existing ones adjusted. This move comes after observations during the 2022 Open, where several par-4s were too easily reachable for long hitters.
But it’s not just about length. Strategic play is being re-emphasized with bunker adjustments. On hole 2, two fairway bunkers will be moved forward and to the left. New bunkers will be added on holes 6 and 10 at typical modern driving distances. A historical fairway section on hole 16 will be reintroduced, flanked by two new left-side bunkers, making the hole more challenging. Even the iconic 17th hole isn’t exempt—the infamous Road Hole Bunker will be restored to maintain its legendary difficulty.
Preparing the Course for the Future
Alongside structural changes, the Old Course will receive a modern irrigation system to ensure consistent playing conditions. This upgrade will benefit both elite tournaments and the thousands of golfers who play the course year-round.
St. Andrews: Evolving with Time
Change has always been part of St. Andrews. From new bunkers to extended fairways and adjusted tees, the course has evolved over centuries. Historical records show golf being played here as early as 1552. Over the last 100 years, dozens of bunkers have been added, and in the 2000s, the course length increased by over 274 meters. As 2027 approaches, the Old Course continues to honor its legacy while adapting to the future of the game.