Old Course Set for Subtle Yet Significant Restoration Ahead of 2027 Open
St Andrews prepares for a careful evolution that honours history while refining its challenge for today’s game
Seoul, Korea - Work will begin next week on a measured programme of enhancements and restoration to the Old Course at St Andrews, ahead of The 155th Open in 2027.
The project, led by the R&A and St Andrews Links Trust, aims to refine the strategic challenge for elite players while restoring traditional features to improve the experience for everyday golfers. It follows a post-2022 Open review and will be carried out by acclaimed architects Mackenzie & Ebert.
Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of the R&A, said: “Working with St Andrews Links Trust we have commissioned Mackenzie & Ebert to carry out a carefully planned programme of work to enhance and restore the challenge of the Old Course in a few key areas. Our approach is grounded in deep respect for the course’s unparalleled history.”
Neil Coulson, Chief Executive of St Andrews Links Trust, added: “Every generation has played a part in shaping the Old Course, and this latest programme continues that long tradition. The work will restore features that have changed subtly over time and refine others to preserve the course’s unique character.”
Six holes will be lengthened — the 5th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 11th and 16th — while the 12th will be shortened slightly, extending the course by 132 yards to 7,445 yards. The 16th hole will see an historic playing route restored left of the Principal’s Nose and Deacon Sime bunkers, with two new bunkers introduced to increase risk for longer hitters.
Additional updates include repositioned bunkers on the 2nd, 6th, 9th and 10th, a realigned championship tee on the 12th, and a sympathetic restoration of the iconic Road Hole Bunker on the 17th. Simultaneously, an upgraded irrigation system will modernise turf management while minimising disruption to play.
Work begins on-site on 3 November, marking another thoughtful chapter in the centuries-long evolution of the world’s most famous golf course — one that continues to adapt without ever losing its soul.