Elie Golf Links
St Andrews, Scotland
(5 reviews)
Elie Golf Links Club overview
Elie is a quirky golf club dating back to the 15th century. Officially known as The Golf House Club at Elie, the facilities are also shared with the Elie and Earlsferry Ladies Golf Club.
Located just 14 miles south of St Andrews, Elie Golf Links of today dates back to 1832 and is an outstanding links gem that effortlessly combines undulating fairways with large, fast greens and magnificent views over the Firth of Forth. Peter Thompson, winner of five Open Championships, refers to Elie as a jewel amongst Scotland’s elite courses and says: ‘If I had my way I’d build Elie’s all over the world’. A relatively short course at under 6300 yds, this cultured links requires shot-making versus power.
Despite regular maintenance and renovations over the years, the clubhouse dates back to 1877 and has maintained much of its original charm, with both the Golf House Club and The Elie & Earlsferry Ladies Golf Club sharing the facilities. Overlooking the 18th green discussing your round over a drink is a well-earned pleasure!
Elie Golf Links Course overview
Although the course was originally founded in 1832, golf at Elie can be traced all the way back to 1589 when a Royal Charter gave locals permission to play on the land. What started out as a 9-hole course quickly turned into 11-holes, then 14, and was finally extended to the full 18 in 1895 by none other than Old Tom Morris.
Elie Golf Links is characterized by its historic terrain which effortlessly combines undulating fairways with large, firm and fast greens. The course measures in at a modest 6,273-yard, with no par-5s and only two par-3s. Don’t be fooled though as Elie does not give up a good score easily, rewarding golfers who stick to their guns and play patiently round its 18-holes, while punishing those who try to overpower the course.
A magnificent links gem amongst Scotland's elite courses, Elie is about as traditional and authentic as it gets.
Signature Holes
The sensational 380-yard par-4 13th hole at Elie Golf Links must be its signature hole. Running in parallel with the sea to the left-hand side, this uphill par-4 requires a precise drive followed by a strong second to a large green where everything gathers to the front left. What makes this hole truly special is its fantastic views of the sea and the steep cliffs which lie behind the green.
Did You Know?
The famous Elie periscope was installed in the starter’s hut following the scrappage of the naval submarine HMS Excalibur and offers a unique look at some of the course's notable features.
