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St Andrews Links Trust is in advanced talks to add a new golf course to its already world-class portfolio.

It is currently under stewardship of seven golf courses in the Home of Golf, but the plans would see the Duke’s course become number eight.

The Links Trust would take over a long-term lease of the championship venue and take management of it later this year.

The Duke’s is under the management of the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, owned by US-based Kohler, and is an 18-hole heathland course renowned as one of the best in the country.

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It will provide links ticket holders and visitors to St Andrews with additional playing opportunities, while the Duke’s clubhouse, driving range and other facilities would also come under control of the Links Trust.

“This would be an exciting opportunity to expand the range of exceptional golfing experiences we offer,” said Neil Coulson, Chief Executive of St Andrews Links Trust.

“The addition of The Duke’s Course to our portfolio would increase tee time availability for our ticket holders and visitors while continuing to uphold the traditions and excellence synonymous with St Andrews.

“We have a strong and long-standing relationship with the Old Course Hotel Golf Resort & Spa as our close neighbours in St Andrews and as positive talks continue, we hope to be able to announce more details soon.”

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Phyllis Wilkie, General Manager at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, added: “We are pleased that The Duke’s could play a role in satisfying the high demand for golf in St Andrews.

“The inclusion of The Duke’s in the St Andrews Links Trust roster would provide ticket holders and visitors with yet another outstanding golf experience.

“We look forward to progressing these positive discussions.”

Over the years, the St Andrews Links Trust has gradually progressed its stable of golf courses.

Originally starting with the Old Course, it has added the New, Jubilee, Eden, Strathyrum, Balgove and Castle Course to the roster.

The agreement will have no impact on current members or visitors who have existing course bookings in 2025.


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John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.

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