Public

Championship Course

Carnoustie Golf Links

Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland
bigcanuck
Anthony Moore
mikmac64
Michael B
dm4squared
+276
18 holesPar 726,945 yds77.3/140

About this course

Carnoustie Golf Links, a crucible where legends are forged, represents the unforgiving spirit of Scottish links golf. Carved from the rugged coastline of Angus, its undulating fairways and treacherous burns stand as a testament to the enduring challenge of the game. Designed originally by Allan Robertson in 1842, with later refinements by James Braid, Carnoustie embodies the penal characteristics of classic links architecture. The terrain demands strategic shot-making; wayward drives are swallowed by gorse and heather. Downwind holes often bait players into aggression while the ever-present wind ensures no two rounds are ever alike. Its most infamous hole is without question the 18th. The Barry Burn winds snakelike in front of the tee, across the fairway, and up to the front of the green. The course has hosted The Open Championship eight times, etching its name in golfing history with dramatic finishes and unforgettable moments. Notably, Ben Hogan claimed his only Open Championship here in 1953, cementing his legendary status and inspiring future generations of golfers. Carnoustie remains a definitive examination of a golfer’s skill. Carnoustie’s formidable reputation attracts golfers seeking the ultimate test. It offers an experience steeped in history and unrelenting challenge. Tales are told of how amateur golfers have come to Carnoustie excited to prove their worth only to leave dejected by the end of their round. No matter your level of skill, you will always have a new respect for the course and the game when you leave.

Rankings

Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.

185

Best in World

20

Best in UK

12

Best in Scotland

Quick facts

Location
Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland
Access
Public
Year built
1850
Holes
18
Designer
James Braid
Par
72
Length
6,945 yards
Difficulty
77.3/140
Course Vaults score
8.9

Getting there

The journey to Carnoustie Golf Links begins at Edinburgh Airport (EDI), Scotland's principal gateway, situated roughly seventy miles northwest; the drive south through the rolling Lowlands and into Angus typically unfolds over ninety minutes, tracing a path that gradually shifts from motorway to quieter A-roads lined with moorland and distant hills. For those arriving by private aviation, Dundee Airport lies just twenty minutes south of the links, offering a more discreet entry to the region. The final approach descends toward the Angus coast, where the landscape opens onto the North Sea, and the austere beauty of Carnoustie's seaside setting emerges - a place where wind, salt air, and centuries of championship golf converge at the edge of Scotland's eastern shore.

FAQ

Common questions about Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links

Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.

Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links has a Course Vaults score of 8.9 out of 10 based on 281 logged golfers.

Championship was designed by James Braid.

Yes. Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.

Par at Championship is 72.

Championship plays 6,945 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.

The slope rating at Championship is 140.

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