Championship Course
Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland
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.
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.
Best in World
Public: #65
Best in UK
Public: #18
Best in Scotland
Public: #11
Golfers say Carnoustie delivers a demanding championship test, with most praising its narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, and especially the closing stretch from 14 through 18, which many call among the best finishing holes in golf. Reviewers note the course requires precision off the tee and features notoriously difficult bunkers, while caddies earn consistent praise for their quality. Some find the layout lacks typical links magic—it rarely shows ocean views and can feel flat—and a few criticize restricted tee access that diminishes strategic options on certain holes. Most agree it's worth playing for the Open Championship context and historical significance, though opinions split on whether it justifies the cost, with one reviewer finding it overpriced and uninspiring.
8.9
271 players
Oddly a bit overrated perhaps except the last 5 holes which are incredibly hard. We got a windless day which may have taken the difficulty level down a bit. Greens were immaculate. Great service in the clubhouse and awesome history tour. Feels very corporate for Scotland.
Greatest course on earth. Best set of greens in Scotland. Caddies best in the business. Ask for Max and Billy
the sculpting and layout are amazing. the condition are perfect and the closing stretch of 16, 17, 18 might be some of the toughest Ive ever played
Absolute test. Listen to your caddies. Hit it straight. Hope for a couple bounces in your direction. Fired a little 77 with the rough not grown up. Course is tight as a nun and the greens are extremely challenging. Really fun experience but make sure to mix in some more courses that are a touch more forgiving on your trip.
While in the area I am very glad to have played it, it definitely adds context to watching the Open Championship but I would not recommend a flight to play this course alone. From start to finish the fairways are decently narrow with different bunkers being in play depending on the wind direction in a given day, it is much more strict of a driving test vs other Scottish links. Disappointingly, don't plan on playing even close to the Championship yardage, the furthest back we were allowed to play was 2-up from the Open tees. Not the end of the world but it totally negated the strategy on 3-4 holes where you can just fly driver over the burn. Nevertheless, 14-18 is one of the best closing stretches I have ever played and it is easy to see why it holds up as a great championship test.
I’m a big fan of Carnoustie. It’s so precise that even good shots get penalized. The bunkers are the hardest I’ve ever played. You’re on the ocean and you almost never see it. Caddies are top notch and the meat pie at the turn is worth the beating you will take. 16-17-18 could be the best finish in golf, everything before is worthwhile too. We’ve all been Jean van de Velde before once here you’ll understand how it can happen to a pro.
We got a little taste of the nastiness that can be Carnoustie but turned into a memorable day of great golf. Overcast and a bit blustery added to the difficulty
Epic golf course and a fun challenge. Feels regal when you are at the club. Does not totally capture the magic of links golf but still a good course.
Had s great day here (77) despite limping home bogey/dbl/par. Watched dad Van de Velde his way up 18.
One of the toughest everyday tests out there. A great championship layout that doesn’t rely on sea views. Some great history and a great finishing stretch.
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FAQ
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 134 explicit golfer ratings.
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.
