7 ways to book the Old Course

However, securing a tee time on the world’s oldest and most famous golf course can be tricky – so here’s our insider guide to making it onto the 1st tee at The Old Course.

Book in advance 
Golfers can apply for a ‘Swilcan Package’ directly through St Andrews Links Trust each year. If successful, golfers will be allocated a tee time at the Old Course and another St Andrews Links course, alongside additional package benefits. 2027 Swilcan Packages have all been snapped up – but look out for 2028 applications opening in late August/early September 2027.

Enter the Ballot
Groups of two to four golfers wishing to play The Old Course can enter The Old Course Ballot 48 hours before the day they wish to play. To enter the ballot, each golfer’s name, home club and handicap should be provided online (https://standrews.com/old-course-ballot), by phone (+44 (0)1334 466666) or at The Old Pavilion or one of the St Andrews Links’ clubhouses before 2pm. As The Old Course is closed for play on a Sunday, there’s no ballot on a Friday.
The results of the ballot are available after 4.30pm on the day of application. Successful? Simply pay your green fee directly to the starter two days later, immediately before your round on the Old Course.

Ditch your golfing pals!
As a single golfer, you can enter the Old Course Singles Daily Draw between 9am and 5pm on the day before you wish to play at either the Old Pavilion, the Links Clubhouse, or the Home of Golf Hub. After the draw period ends, a waiting list is created. Tee times are then allocated to single players according to their position on the waiting list, as tee times become available.

Book with an authorised St Andrews Links Authorised Provider 
During the high season (April – October), several golf tour operators and local accommodation providers offer packages that include guaranteed Old Course tee times. Check for the official ‘Authorised Provider’ logo on websites, social media platforms and correspondence before booking.

Amex® Exclusive Application Window
Each year, eligible American Express Platinum Card® and Centurion® Members can enter for a chance to purchase a golf package at St Andrews, including at the prestigious Old Course. Applications are open from August-September, with all 2027 packages sold out.

Go Low
From April to October, demand for tee times is at its highest. But, during the Low Season, from November to March, your chances of securing a tee time through the Old Course Ballot are often higher. However, with less daylight hours, your chances are not guaranteed.

Move to St Andrews!   
Break open that piggy bank! St Andrews residents (and students studying at the town’s ancient university) can apply for a Links Ticket which, for an annual fee of £386 (as of 2026), provides access to the eight courses managed by St Andrews Links. In addition, those out with St Andrews can also apply for a Links Ticket – however, there’s a long waiting list.