Kingsbarns Golf Links Key Information
A hugely attractive, incredibly fun modern links course with highly memorable holes. It's a great take on the links showcasing the very best of modern course design. The holes along the waterfront are exceptional but even those that move inland slightly have a great deal of character and require a strategic approach. This is not a course that will bully you, but you have to treat it with due respect.
REASONS TO PLAY KINGSBARNS GOLF LINKS
– A perfect example of modern links course design
– Striking coastal holes that will live long in the memory
– Small but perfectly formed clubhouse is worth visiting in itself
RANKINGS
UK & Ireland Top 100 Golf Courses 2025/26 - 14
Visually stunning Kingsbarns has been a staple of our Top 100 golf courses UK&I rankings for 20 years now. Set along a beautiful piece of coastline with the sea visible from nearly every hole, continuous improvements see the layout rightly retain its top-20 ranking and move up one place. Kingsbarns is an absolute masterpiece of modern links golf design.
A creation of Mark Parsinen and Kyle Phillips, Kingsbarns was opened in 2000 and swiftly earned a reputation as a modern classic - it's now one of Scotland's most famous courses. It’s a wonderful track, blending the techniques of contemporary course design with the rugged simplicity of a traditional Scottish links.
The holes merge seamlessly into the surrounding landscape as they sweep across firm undulating terrain to fast, true greens.
The course features a number of highly memorable holes. A standout in my eyes is the par-5 12th, hugging the rocky coastline as it curves left to fit the shape of the bay.
When the pin is to the left side of the sprawling green, your approach must be fired over the beach to reach the flag. In an age when par-5s tend to offer respite, this is a true three-shotter where par is an excellent score.
Then there’s the par-3 15th where the tee shot must carry rocks and sea to reach the green. It's one of my favourite par-3s.
The clubhouse at Kingsbarns also blends the old and new. Wood panelled and decorated with oil paintings, it has the feel of an old-school Scottish club minus any stuffiness or pretension.
Much like the course, the clubhouse is perfectly thought out and constructed to the highest specifications. I've spent a very nice half hour (or more perhaps) in there with golfing pals going over the successes and failures we've had on the links.
Kingsbarns features in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship each October and was venue for the 2017 Ricoh Women’s British Open.
The course closes over the winter months meaning it's always in pristine condition when the season gets underway.
What's new for 2025/26? What our panellists said…
Kingsbarns is the most photogenic of golf courses. Nearly every hole embraces views of the sea. The level changes often give views of verdant fairways hugging the coastline.
Kingsbarns might feel slightly sculpted, but it is extraordinarily beautiful. If you reach the pearly gates with your bag on your shoulder and the course to play for eternity was Kingsbarns, you wouldn’t be disappointed.
On a good day, this is an outstanding links experience. The understated opulence of the clubhouse and the tumbling fairways down toward the water, are what one remembers from television coverage of the Alfred Dunhill Championship. Unlike many experiences drawn from television; when viewed ‘in the flesh’ they are almost more impressive; a rarity in modern life!
Played in April and quiet simply it was immaculate. It was early in the season so a compliment it was in such wonderful condition. A tough course with something for everyone. Possibly the best all-rounder in the top-100.
Kingsbarns Golf Links Location
Kingsbarns Golf Links scorecard
Best Courses Near To Kingsbarns Golf Links
Best Places to Stay Near Kingsbarns Golf links
Fairmont St Andrews - Book now at Booking.com
Set on a 520 acre estate on cliffs overlooking St Andrews Bay, this 5-star hotel features its own championship golf courses. It has free parking, free WiFi, a spa and a pool. A complimentary shuttle service to and from the hotel to St Andrews town centre runs every hour from 09:00-18:00.
The Inn at Kingsbarns - Book now at Booking.com
Super cosy accommodation in this excellent little pub in the village of Kingsbarns. It's very convenient for Kingsbarns Golf Links but not far to drive back into St Andrews or around the East Neuk of Fife towards Elie, Crail, Lundin and Leven. It's dog friendly.
Kingsbarns Golf Links Historical Top 100 Ranking UK&I
- 2025/26 - 14
- 2023/24 - 15
- 2021/22 - 15
- 2019/20 – 15
- 2017/18 - 17
- 2015/16 - 21
- 2013/14 - 16
- 2011/12 - 11
- 2009/10 - 8
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Need A Handicap To Play Kingsbarns?
No - The advice on the Kingsbarns website reads: "We find golfers, regardless of handicap, enjoy the Kingsbarns experience if they can keep up with pace of play."
Do I have to book a caddie at Kingsbarns?
You don't have to, but Kingsbarns recommends it. You can either book a personal caddy or a fore caddie (one for a group of four). Kingsbarns also advises that you pre-book a caddie to avoid disappointment.
Does Kingsbarns close for winter?
The course is closed during the winter usually from mid-November until mid-March. The course is also closed for a week during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship which takes place in late September/early October each year.
