Leven Links

Leven Links occupies a narrow strip of linksland along the Firth of Forth in the East Neuk of Fife, directly adjacent to Lundin Links with which it shares the shoreline. The course was laid out by Old Tom Morris in the 1860s, making it one of the older documented links designs in Scotland. The routing runs out and back along the coast in traditional fashion, with the outward nine playing generally eastward and the inward nine returning westward, exposing golfers to shifting wind conditions throughout the round. The terrain is classic duneland, relatively flat compared to some Scottish links but featuring enough undulation and natural contours to create interesting stances and approaches. Several holes play directly along the beach, while others move slightly inland among the dunes. The greens are typically firm and fast, and the bunkering retains much of the character associated with Morris's design philosophy—strategically placed rather than overly penal, though still demanding accurate play. Leven has hosted regional qualifying for The Open Championship on multiple occasions, serving as one of the venues when the championship is held at nearby St Andrews or other Fife courses. The club maintains a traditional members' club atmosphere, and the course remains relatively accessible to visitors compared to some of its more famous neighbors. The proximity to St Andrews, Lundin, Elie, and Crail places Leven within one of Scotland's most concentrated stretches of historic links golf, offering a quieter but authentic alternative to the busier championship venues along the same coastline.