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Carnoustie (Championship), Scotland |
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Carnoustie Golf Links
20 Links Parade
Carnoustie
Angus
DD7 7JF
Scotland |  | Old Tom Morris, James Braid |  | Colin Sinclair |
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 | +44 (0) 1241 802270 |  | 12 miles E of Dundee |
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Golf Club Website
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 | Contact in advance - not Sat/Sun am |  | Colin McLeod |
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 Seven times an Open Championship venue, Carnoustie was the penultimate Scottish golf course added to the Open Championship rotation – Turnberry was the last.
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Date
1931
1937
1953
1968
1975
1999
2007 |
Winner
Tommy Armour
Henry Cotton
Ben Hogan
Gary Player
Tom Watson
Paul Lawrie
P. Harrington |
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Country
USA
England
USA
S Africa
USA
Scotland
Ireland |
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| | Carnoustie is a big natural seaside links and is widely considered to be one of the world's most difficult golf courses. In fact, according to the results of a recent Top 100 survey, Carnoustie is the toughest golf course in Britain & Ireland.
The first record of golf being played across this links land dates back to 1527; a 10-hole course was laid out in 1842. Fifteen years later, in 1857, an 18-hole course was fashioned by Old Tom Morris. James Braid extended the course in 1926 and it has hardly changed since.
The initial challenge for the first time visitor to Carnoustie is locating the course. There are no signposts. You will have to negotiate a narrow railway tunnel and wind your way through dreary housing estates. But once you get on the first tee, you will begin to appreciate the scale of the challenge that faces you, and realise that finding the course was the easy bit!
Much has been written about Carnoustie over the years. The finishing holes are especially brutal at this seven-time Open Championship venue and many consider that it has one of the greatest back nines in championship golf. Others will recall John Van de Velde’s barefoot paddle in the Barry Burn at the 18th hole during the 1999 Open Championship. Bernard Darwin perhaps had Van de Velde in his mind when, in 1910, he wrote in his book The Golf Courses of the British Isles: “he had got burns badly on his nerves… there really is some justification for the nervous golfer who has water on the brain after a round at Carnoustie.” You have to cross the snaking burn no less than five times whilst playing the closing two holes. We mustn’t forget to mention the wee Jockie’s Burn either - he’s the young son of Barry, and he comes in to catch your approach shot to the 3rd green.
In addition to burns, Carnoustie has some of the most formidable bunkers to contend with. There’s a plethora of them and some are alarmingly cavernous. The par five 6th measures 520 yards from the white tees and is regarded as one of the world’s best holes. Named, “Hogan’s Alley”, after the immortal Ben Hogan who won the Open Championship in 1953. Two fearsome looking bunkers lie waiting in the middle of the fairway and a third bunker to the right hand side ensures that the tee shot is daunting.
The 15th, 16th and 17th are considered the world over to be three of golf’s very best closing holes. “Lucky Slap”, the 15th, is a 460-yard par four, where the fairway slopes from left to right into the path of two waiting bunkers and the approach shot must avoid a cluster of three bunkers sited to the right of the green. “Hardest par three in golf; downwind it is difficult, into an easterly wind it is practically impossible”, according to the yardage guide. We won’t argue because the 16th, called “Barry Burn”, measures 245 yards from the white tees; for the ladies it’s an easy par four measuring 212 yards. The 17th is a complete conundrum, called “Island” because the Barry Burn snakes in front of the tee and then loops back, cutting across the fairway. Into the prevailing wind, it is tough to know what to do on this brutal 400-yard-plus par four.
After winning at St Andrews and Royal Liverpool in 2005 and 2006 respectively, Tiger Woods was chasing a rare treble. He tried to emulate Peter Thomson (1954-1956) by winning a third consecutive Open Championship at Carnoustie however Padraig Harrington had different ideas, claiming his first Major title pushing Woods back to 12th place in the 2007 Open Championship.
Carnoustie isn’t the most scenic golf course – rarely do you catch glimpses of the sea – but it is incredibly tough, even from the forward tees. Bring your “A” game here and pray for the weather to be kind. But be aware that should you plan to play Carnoustie in the winter (Nov-Mar), mats are required on the fairways and the first cut of rough. | |
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If the above course review article is not accurate, let us know by clicking here |
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 |  | | Average Reviewers Score: |   | | My brother & I played & stayed at Carnoustie in the middle of Sept. 2012. We had arrived the night before having traveled up from full day of battling the PGA course at Gleneagles. Not sure why, but the staff told us upon check-in that our room had been upgraded to the Ben Hogan Suite. which at the time didn't mean anything to us until we were told we need a 'special' elevator key to access it. Excitement building, my brother & I perked up a bit & managed to find our way up to our new dwellings. If ever there was a room for golf addicts this was it! 4 bathrooms, 2 living rooms, 2 master bedrooms, walls adorned with pictures of Ben Hogan's championships & frame by frame pictures of his legendary golf swing. We certainly didn't deserve it, but thank you Carnoustie for such a generous upgrade!
We awoke the next morning, excited & eager to test our mettle against the great Carnasty. There is something magical about watching the sun rise over the course. We went down to grab our 'complimentary' breakfast, and sat by a window that low & behold was not more than 20 feet away from the first tee where we were told the members were busy teeing off from. A crowd of regulars were buzzing about cracking jokes & talking trash which I thought was quite the pressured filled / exciting way to hit your first tee shot at a track of such difficulty. The conditions that day were perfect. We were paired with two English fellows only 1 of whom had played the course before.
The course it self was superb! The fairways were in fine shape, the greens were rolling at a speedy 10-11, & the bunkers were every bit as maniacal as I had imagined. If you like a tough test of golf & you like to compete, you'll likely love this course. I can't imagine a less commercial resort course (at stark contrast to Gleneagles for example). We played the tips, where I cautiously tee'd off with many a 4 iron & 3 wood. If you have some length, leaving the driver in the bag on the par 4s might help in the scoring department. It's a very tactical course, not a conventional beauty by any means but when I think about what they did with the land they were given it is very very impressive.
Carnoustie doesn't wow you with ocean views like Kingsbarns per se or engulf you with high dunes & luscious green amphitheatres like Turnberry but it did impress me. You can tell an incredible amount of thought went into the routing of the course & the risk reward scenarios on each hole. Trouble lurks everywhere! The front nine is fairly tough but the back nine has some real knee knockers. Many shots on the back are filled with drama & demand a very high level of precision (both tee & approach). The last few holes live up to expectation. On the 14th, spectacle bunkers absolutely victimized one in our group. I thought I hit a fabulous 2nd up over the middle of the intimidating bunker structure, little did I know that the green was not only blind but carefully bunkered gobble up only the most fortunate of 2nd shots. 15 was very tough with a nifty set up around the green (in some ways similar to 1). 16 actually might be the hardest of the finishing three. In my book hitting a 250ish par three is tough enough without the high level of difficulty a second shot from a miss left entails. A par here is cause for celebration! Standing on 17 for the first time thinking to myself, "what on earth do I do with this..?". 18 ends with the same sort of bravado that 1 started with, a crowd around the 19th hole & guests sitting by their windows all anxiously watch the approach shots into a fair but well protected green.
My brother & I unwound at our suite with a bit of blue label & a seat right beneath the large Rolex sign we had used only moments before to aim our approaches into 18. I could not have asked for a more satisfying more perfect day of golf. Thank you Carnoustie! It was a day that will not soon be forgotten! |
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| 19 January 2013
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| | Grerat experience. Had been looing forward to this for some time and Carnoustie didn't let me down. Each hole was a great challenge in it's own right. Although maybe not as visually appealing as say Birkdale or St Georges, just as good a test, if not better. A great mix of long and short par 4's. The only disappointment was that (as with far too may clubs) despite paying full green fee, you still cannot choose which tees to play off (despite the highest handicap in our group being 2). That said the front tees were still a good challenge, and given that the weather was fabulous, I'm not sure I'd like to take it on in bad conditions! Best holes in my view were 2, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18. Yes most of them! And the others were no pushover. |
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| 29 August 2012
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| | This was my 6th round at Carnoustie dating back to 1984, and this course has never ceased to amaze me with it's difficulty and strategic brilliance. This is an amazing collection of holes with the best par 4's of any links course in the world. Playing from the white markers with only 7 as a par 5, this is a brutal test of golf. The knee high fescue rough from the wet spring and summer added to the difficulty of the course. Bunkers are located at every conceivable interval so that it seems that there is always one of them waiting to gobble up the drive that is the least wayward.
There are no weak holes and many very strong ones. One is a marvelous opener, with heavy rough to the right and out of bounds left, leaving you a semi blind second shot to a secluded green. Three is a beautiful short par 4, offering several options off the tee. The ending from 12 in is truly magnificent, especially if the famous spectacle hole, 14, is played as par 4.
Carnoustie is hard, stern and a great test of golf. In 6 tries I still haven't figured out how to play 17, so I guess I'll have to keep coming back until I learn how to play the hole.
Richard Smith, Knoxville, Tennessee USA |
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| 10 August 2012
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| A second visit to The Monster or Carnasty was one of the things I was really looking forward to before the 2012 trip to Scotland. And this time although I had a rough night being ill, I really believe the debt was paid. We arrived pretty early but I was feeling really bad so I didn't even go to the practice green, just waited to hit my spoon on the first tee. Before the game I met Colin and all the new building, proshop, pictures and had the great pleasure of taking some pictures with the replica of the Claret Jug the Club has as part of the memorabilia the exhibit. Last year I loved the course and placed it number one in my like list,  this year I played almost the double of rounds and it still ranks first together with Royal Aberdeen and Royal Dornoch. The greens were as good as last year and again the best in the Island with Aberdeen. Course shape was as good as I expected and the tough rainy and windy day made it what true golfers like: to have their game tested to the limit. And luckily mine was there, 5 birdies including a 2 inches 9 iron on 13th (it could have been really expensive) and breaking 80 with 2 OB balls on 7th and 14th, which in my opinion as a par 4 is the toughest hole on the course, even tougher than 17th and 18th. Is it the nicest course? NO! But yet the best to play. Is design special? It is mainly flat, but every hole has its character and difficulty. All the same some holes are really nice as Hogan´s Alley, par 4 10th, par 3 16th and 18th. Any special recomendation? YES!! In every trip to Scotland, play Carnoustie TWICE, it is the minimum this fantastic venue deserves. Do you have a dream with this venue? YES, playing it once from the Open tees, as last year We played it from 7000yds. I would like to see how tough it can get. Said this, Carnoustie will always be in my personal rota when travelling to Scotland. |
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| 14 July 2012
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| | Just got back from 2 weeks in Scotland, and trip to Carnoustie was memorable, in that I shot my worst round of the 15 rounds I played, but didnt rank the experience in the Top 8 of the trip.
The opening string of holes were challenging with the 30mph winds, and great golf holes, as were the last string of holes. 15, 16, 17, and especially 18 were world class, even when I hit the green at 18, and rocketed out of bounds towards the HOTEL
The major issue I had with Carnoustie based on the other courses I played was the middle section of the course. I remember the hole with trees on the left (par 4) and the next 3-4 after that being very memorable in that I felt I was back at home in Seattle playing.
That being said, still a memorable experience, but wouldn't put Carnoustie on the "come back to it" list based on the other 12 courses we played on the trip.
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| 04 July 2012
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| | Played Carnoustie on 16th May 2012. Wonderful greeting by all the staff, especially the secretary Colin, whose generosity was over and above the call of duty. For me the variety of holes is what earmarks Carnoustie as one of the great courses and, at that time went straight in as the number one course I had played ahead of the likes of RSG, Royal Liverpool and both Sunningdale courses (I found a new number one a couple of days later). The bunkering is magnificent and really makes you think about what you'rew trying to do and where you want to hit it. I played reasonably well for 15 holes (I then went 5, 7, 9 to finish without finding the burn once!!) and managed to plot my way around, but still found quite a few bunkers. However, a couple of my playing partners weren't hitting the ball as well as they would have liked and racked up some big numbers. The stand out holes for me were 3, 6, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17 and 18, although I must stress I didn't find a weak hole out there. Simply a wonderful golf course and I sat there having a my pint with a nice big cheesy grin on my chops, and this from someone who finished as I did!! Says it all, I think. |
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| 01 June 2012
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| | I have just returned from a few days in Scotland with 3 friends. We went over the play the Old Course, and while we were over thought we would play Carnoustie as well. I knew its mighty reputation, and I was expecting to have a tough old slog around a miserable links, but how wrong could I have been? We arrived over 2 hours early for our tee time due to unexpectedly good fortune with travel, and when we arrived the sun was trying to break through the clouds. We were met by the starter who was more than happy to move us up the list, even though I expect it was probably members time, so we set out 2 hours early. The course is in exceptional condition, the fairways would make most greenkeepers proud in July, let alone at the start of Spring, and the greens were true and ran well. We had to play off mats, but was is fine, and we were welcome to play off the medal tees. Carnoustie has jumped straight into my top 5 golf courses worldwide, with its exceptional selection of holes, it's great fairways, strategic bunkering and brilliant green complexes. I could not get over how many greenstaff there were working on the course, or the hardware being utilised. They really do work hard and are reaping the benefits. Well down to Carnoustie Links Committee. You have gained a fan, and I intend to tell eveyone how great this course is. Six Stars. |
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| 07 March 2012
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| After a 10 day trip to Scotland and having played almost all the Top Courses  (I just missed Muirfield), all I have to say that in my golfing opinion this courses is the best BY FAR!!! It may not have the beauty of Kingsbarns neither the charm of the Old Course but as per golf design, challenge, strategy and course shape, Carnoustie championship got the 1st place. My first nine holes were a disappointing 48, but played of 37 the back nine from the 7000yds tees, finishing 3-4-4 in the toughest end in golf! Design is excellent, variety, challenge, strategy, everything matches for an excellent golf course, which I which to play again very soon! |
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| 06 October 2011
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| | Good but over rated course! The best part of the day is at the first tee with the starter hut where the course appears and gives a feeling of greatness but nothing transpires after that. No scenic views, only like 2 holes in the purposeful dunes, 3rd hole is a joke, few good holes with a lot of non memorable holes around the course, 17 + 18 play really goofy let's be honest, TPC Sawgrass meets Links golf. Also, very expensive round on Championship course. Played it once and that is one more than needed. |
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| 22 September 2011
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| Response: | | | maarten | 22 September 2011 | | Carnoustie has to be one of the toughest test in golf and scenic views are not what makes a golf course great, it can only makes the experience better. Not every course beat the views you get at both Ballybunion courses or Turnberry. As said before, the bunkering is top notch and you must have been in the burns quite a few times if you think 17 an 18 play goofy. They are excellent and incredibly tough finishing holes, ask Jean van de Velde... |
| | | Excellent golf course, toughest bunkers I have yet to play on any Links course (only Ganton rivals in bunker difficulty). Scenery lacks but your mind better be focused on the task at hand or your score card will be torn apart. Some holes are unfair for the shots they ask of you, they come down to more luck than skill. A lot of masterful holes with a few bland ones. There are better Open venues and courses to play (you play here to tell your friends and for the name). |
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| 24 July 2011
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| | I have held this review back for several months and although time has elapsed my opinion has not changed, (deep breath), I have to say that I found Carnoustie a bit bland in places. (Audible gasps) There I have said it, there is no going back now I can hear boos from the pews, I am a reviewing pariah I was reared on tales of 'Carnastie' where the Wind blew and you hung on by the seat of your pants. I was expecting Maureen O'Hara in The Quiet Man, fiery and stubborn what I got on the day I played was closer to Rocky’s wife Adrian, a bit meek and mild but I think that was because the Old Girl was having a lazy day after a night on the tiles with the course playing as close to mellow as it can get it. This is in no way a slight on the excellent reviews below mine it is just my personal preference I just found that the reality didn’t quite live up my expectations which admittedly in this case were very high. Perhaps I placed the bar too high? The first and last 5 holes serve to remind you why this place is revered by golfers the world over but the holes around the turn, are in my opinion, are a bit uninspiring and that is what lets it down for me. . So I am sorry that I can’t fully clasp Carnoustie to my golfing bosom in the same way that I do with Murifeld and The Ailsa that being said, there is no doubt whatsoever that Carnoustie has quality in absolute abundance and an obvious must play in anyone’s Scottish golfing CV. MPPJ |
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| 23 September 2010
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| Response: | | | Derek | 27 September 2010 | | Dear MPPJ, No audible gasps from me - I seem to recollect feeling a bit disapointed with the holes around 7-9 and possibly 11. It's funny the silly wee things that disapoint you about these "big" venues - the ugliness of the concrete lip of the burn across the 17th haunts me to this day. Still think there are enough really good holes to award 6 balls, personally. On the bigger issue i too feel strangely reticent about being really truthful about the famous courses eg i have never submitted a review of The Ailsa for fear of being ostracised or certified (too many very ordinary holes to be Scotland's No 1, if you're interested). Most of my golfing pleasure is vicarious at the mo so keep the reviews coming! | | | Jason | 15 November 2010 | | That is the beauty of golf, we all have our likes and dislikes. I can understand comments at Turnberry but sheer location and everything else about the place masks any shortcomings. As for Carnastie - well right conditions and playing good golf it is a fair challenge - but you have to get to grip of the greens. Personally the 7th is an awesome Par 3, proper length for normal golfers; 9th gives you more than a trouser arousel if you reach green in 2 - just don't spoil it by 3 stabbin! 8th & 10th - par 4's to concentrate on, take a deep breath and bring/retain respectability back to the scorecard. Go for birdie on 11th and find bunker on left hand side and carnage awaits - from there hang on. In my opinion it has the lot but you have to be on your game and put the ball in the right position. | | | LovinItAll | 11 April 2012 | | I went to Scotland in '05 and, with 15 other guys, played 17 courses in 21 days. We saved Carnoustie for last. The weather: Straight line winds of 50mph with gusts to 65mph, but at least it was sunny. A few guys wanted to cancel, but we trogged on anyway. My index was a 3.8 at the time. I'm not a long hitter - average drive = 240 - but until you've hit into gale force winds, you can't appreciate what it's like to tag a drive and watch it travel 180 yards. The course was in great shape, but I could only scrape together around of 82 that day. Side note: Rush Limbaugh was playing in the group behind me. I'd like to hear what he thought of the course that day. |
| | | Played Carnoustie Friday, September 17. I must say the course is absolutely fantastic! As other reviewers have said before me it is definitely one of the toughest courses I’ve played but at the same time it’s just so good in every aspect. Design, layout as well as condition. I have played the Old Course and Muirfield and I must rate Carnoustie higher than those courses. Before playing Carnoustie I probably rated Kingsbarns as the best course I’ve ever played and I think that for a 10 handicapper like myself Kingsbarns is a more enjoyable course whereas for a scratch player Carnoustie must be the better choice. |
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| 20 September 2010
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| | Having played a lot of Top 100 courses and slowly working my way through the Open rota courses I was more than delighted to be given the chance to play Carnoustie with a very good business associate and a friend of his who is a member. Well..... how does it rate? The weather was very kind with no wind to a gentle breeze,hot sunny spells and threats of rain dissipating (very lucky!). The previous nights meal at the Ganges, a few drinks in town and a superb breakfast in the hotel set the tone perfectly for the round . The round itself, from the first - you see the trouble off the tee, stay away from the left and go for the bunkers..... and that leaves an awkward approach that requires a superb struck iron with fade! A par is a great start. You can go on describing the course but unfortunately hole after hole superlatives are not enough. In a nutshell - go,stay, drink, eat, play and you will enjoy. It is not as scenic as Turnberry, it does not have the history of St Andrews but the golf course itself is second to none. The conditioning was excellent and the greens as good as I have ever played - MUST PLAY AGAIN! |
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| 18 September 2010
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| Having now played about 25% of the top 100 I’m beginning to develop a view of what makes a top course and why some, despite some good features fall a wee bit short. Carnoustie for me falls very much into the former category From the moment you emerge from under the tiny wee railway bridge and you see these links stretch out in front and to the right of you you’re immediately aware that you are in a very special golf setting. But it’s not until you get out on the course that you realise just how special.
To me, this course is the ultimate test. By some distance I’d say it’s the toughest on the Open rota. There are no weak holes and there is potential for disaster looming just below the surface throughout. You cannot just hit and hope here, do that and this course will have you for breakfast. You really have to think and plot a safe course...and then execute your plan to the letter. The need for a careful approach becomes apparent at the 3rd (Jocky’s Burn) a short par 4 but with a myriad of trouble visible from the elevated tee. You must pick a landing spot that will leave you with your most reliable in-shot as the green is one of the trickiest on the course and it’s fronted by the burn. I found the 5th (Brae) very tough into the wind. Then comes Hogan’s, classic hole, the abrupt line of white stakes down the left and the driver distance line of bunkers down the right...the course is beginning to turn the screw. Confident and wind behind? go the Hogan route and give yourself a shot at the green in 2. Otherwise accept it as a 3 shotter. For the record I went for it and got the birdie. The front 9 are tough but if you are on your A+ game and carefully plotting your way round you can get to the turn thinking “I can post a decent score here”As your delusion continues, the 10th (South America) hits you like a brick and posts warning that the back 9 are a much tougher test than the front.
Long with the Barry burn debuting by snaking in front of and up the right side of the green means that a bogey is a good result here. Fortify yourself at the cafe and enjoy the trip down 11 as it’s about the last bit of respite you will get (with the possible exception of 13). If you’ve made it to the 14th tee with your handicap intact you’ve done well but brace yourself, you are about to play golfs toughest closing stretch. The last 5 holes at Carnoustie ask ALL the questions. A good round can come apart at any point. 14 (The Spectacles) is actually tougher of the forwards as it’s played as a 4 rather than a 5. Either way unless you cream your best drive and put yourself in a position you KNOW you can carry...don’t take them on. I did, hooked it and found a fortunate gap in the gorse just behind the 15th tee. managed to flop it over and 2 putt for a 5 phew!! 15 (Lucky Slap) shouldn’t really bite you...but it does. Maybe the name lulls you into a false sense of security. Again bunkers at driver distance on the right and a subtle dogleg left encourages a draw. Overcook the draw though and the gorse fairies will be ever so grateful. The cluster of bunkers short right have also got card wrecker written all over them. The course has now cranked up the pressure if you’re still on a score. Just when you need a breather up pops a 250 yard into the wind par 3 riddled with deep pot bunkers front left and right...nice!!. Oddly the 16th is called Barry Burn but the Burn isn’t in play at all...unless you’re ridiculously wild long and left. I think the name is a warning...get through this hole unscathed and the Barry Burn will be waiting for you...and of course it is.
On both 17 and 18 you have to cross it twice. It’s positioning at 17 means a careful lay up on the peninsula and a longer 2nd shot (unless you are confident of a 280+ carry). On 18 it looms just before the green. Again, unless you’re drive puts you in a position you KNOW you can carry, lay up. The gallery at the hotel bar enjoy watching the over confident fishing for balls!! Shoot anywhere near your handicap in a breeze here and you’ve had a super round and probably had a wee bit more than your fair share of luck. Don’t be discouraged if you shoot double your handicap, it happens here....A LOT!! All the Open’s played here in my lifetime have had exciting/dramatic finishes. Having now played those closing holes I can so understand why. I know it would never happen but I would love to see the Ryder Cup here. I don’t think there’s a better golfing challenge anywhere to match Carnoustie. It’s long enough, the bunkering is superb (but try to avoid finding out first hand at all costs). From the bunkering and the use of the natural features i.e the burns it is a strategic masterpiece. The greens are true and well conditioned. Fairways were in lovely condition when I played it. The rough near the fairway was punishing but not brutal. Would love to play it in benign conditions but I suppose 2-3 club winds are more the norm here.
Worth mentioning the wee brother as well. the Burnside nests amongst the fringes of the big one so it is basically the same terrain. it may only be a Par 68 but with an SSS of 70 you know it’s also going to have a toughness of it’s own. The par 3s are exceptional, 5, 9 & 14 in particular could grace grander more higher rated courses. Of the par 4s 17 tries ever so hard to be as tough as 17 on the championship course and only just comes up short. If you love your golf and love to be challenged, take yourself to Carnoustie but be sure to take your A game...and ask Lady Luck for a wee overdraft as well ;) |
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| 18 September 2010
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| | I have played Carnoustie several times on my visits during the past 20 years. In mid-June I again played the course and was very, very disappointed in the quality of the turf. Virtually all fairway lies were played off hard-pan. During my groups travels, we (all single digit handicaps)played 17 links courses. Carnoustie's turf was the worst. I understand the weather has been very dry this summer, but the turf on neighboring Montrose was better. During my visit, I encountered several groups of touring golfers who had a similar experience. Forget fairway woods or using hybrids. I was again treated very well by the Carnoustie staff but I won't return for a long while. |
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| 12 July 2010
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| Just over seven years after I last played here, I returned a couple of days ago to the Championship course to find out if my previous, rather curmudgeonly, three ball review should be endorsed or amended. Happy to relate, the Old Lady now sits in far better surroundings, with almost all the old industrial buildings removed (replaced by smart up-market housing) to give the Open venue a location in keeping with what is effectively a world golf heritage site. So much for the off course improvements - what about the links itself?
Well, the fairways are laid out on a pretty level landscape (like Panmure and Monifeith next door) that is neither true links, parkland or heath land. Instead, the terrain consists of a wonderful amalgam of turf, incorporating the best of all these land forms in one pleasing eclectic mix. Throw in plenty of water in the shape of meandering streams and numerous fairway and greenside bunkers to get all the ingredients needed for a truly tough championship golf track.
Holes 1, 3 and 5 are especially good; the first of these plays to a wonderful bowl green and the other two ask the golfer to negotiate Jockie’s Burn between tee and green site. Unfortunately, the signature hole (“Hogan’s Alley”) at the 6th starts a run of four holes where out of bounds runs down the left of each fairway. Maybe if holes 6 and 7 had natural tree-lined or sand hill boundaries down the left flank I could handle them a little better. It’s just the visual abruptness of an artificial separating fence between the Championship and Buddon fairways on these holes that leaves me a little cold.
The pace picks up again at the 10th with the Barry Burn in front of the green giving notice of the role it will play on the two closing holes. The 14th is a really tough, left doglegged par four from the regular yellow tees, measuring all of 468 yards from tee to green (only 15 yards less than the par five white tees!) and the fearsome Spectacles bunkers need to be carried 50 yards short of the putting surface. The finishing trio of holes are as hard as you’ll find anywhere in the country and they go a long way towards the standard scratch score rating (74) of four shots over par.
To be honest, the Championship course is hardly one that I could grow to love; mainly because it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as some of the other top links tracks in GB & I but that doesn’t mean it should be given anything less than the utmost of respect for the test that it sets. You can understand why the R&A include it on their major championship rota (the Seniors Open is here next month and the Ladies Open next year) as it is as stern an examination of golfing ability as you would care to find anywhere. Come expecting to be challenged and you will love the experience. Jim McCann |
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| 17 June 2010
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| | Played Carnoustie on a good mid September day with a two club wind. All in all an excellent track and although I was disappointed not to be able to go out of the medal tees, at 6700 the yellows proved to be more than enough of a test. I thought the main difficulty here lies off the tee, it seemed that every hole had bunkers positioned at driver distance so you need to be hitting it straight to score well. I thought the start and finish to the round are very strong – loved the 2nd which is literally a beast of a hole into the wind, the short par 4, 3rd that had my poor brain in turmoil at what to hit off the tee and Hogan’s Alley must be one of the best par 5’s anywhere. OB left (with no rough to stop your ball), bunkers right and a green that has to be approached from the left to have any chance of making birdie, this hole is a beautiful monster that will swallow you up unless you possess the purest ball striking ability.
The course suffers somewhat in the middle (a little like the Old Course in this respect) from 2 or 3 mediocre holes but has a swashbuckling return to form with some demon par 4’s. Much is made of the finishing 3 holes here and although a little disappointed with 17 (a little too contrived for my liking), 16 and especially 18 must be 2 of the best finishing holes around. The prospect of playing 16 into any sort of wind sends shivers down my spine and I’ll bet many a good score has been ravaged by 18. All in all well worth the money, the course was in great condition and I look forward to the return visit.
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| 05 October 2009
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| | I loved the town of Carnoustie, the course and the clubs across the street. Heck, we even had a good time in the hotel bar. This is golf at its purest. If you are hitting it straight with the right wind, holes can be had. If not, look out. From 12, I went birdie, birdie, birdie, double, double, double, par. I can see how the course can be impossible on a bad day, but we had a beautiful day and with that, this will be one of my favorite courses played throughout the world. Played Burnside as well, but it doesn't really compare. I will be back! ANDYMAC |
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| 24 July 2009
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| | Looking forward to going back to Carnoustie on July 17th after a 30 year absence. I was 16 at the time and played on Glasgow's municpal courses so this was simply magic. Taking my son with me who is now 17 and hoping he enjoys it as much as I did way back when. It is just a must play course. Since I last played at Carnoustie I have play many of the other Open courses, but I think that there is a rawness to this place that sets it aside. Can't wait to get there |
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| 15 July 2009
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| | When I visited Carnoustie I have to say it was probably the most enjoyable golfing experience of my life so far! Everything was excellent… apart from the wonderful Scottish weather, but that made brief periods of the round different and even more challenging! The first impression when you arrive is second to none. The huge hotel full of helpful friendly people. On my trip to Carnoustie this was a running theme. Everyone was so kind and helpful right from the starters, who seemed like they were not only being polite but wanted to get to know you better even without their job, to the friendly lady who not only gave me instructions of how to find my B&B but walked me there also! The Course itself was in excellent condition. However without the wind our whole fourball played very well. I am off 21 (which even I will admit is banditry!) but I shot a 15 over 85! However when the wind picks up or Scottish sunshine finishes its cameo appearance it was plain to see that the course would turn into “Carnastie!” I think one key to success was that I only went in one bunker on the the round on the long Par 3 16th on which I ended up with a 5! However if you can putt as the greens are flat birdies can be made!
Carnoustie has to be the best course I have ever played as never has a course rewarded and punished so heavily! And if I were to offer some advice it would be to leave the big stick in the bag until the 18th and then have a crack just for the hell of it! Well worth the trip as some holes alone are worth the money! |
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| 15 July 2009
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| | Excellent track, brilliant greens. I play off a handicap of 5 and played it on a windy day. Shot 16 over and played very well. This is a monster |
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| 21 April 2009
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| | Purely looked at as a golf course carnoustie is unbeatable. No weak holes, no blind shots, and very tough finish. We played in July 2008 with course at its longest as there was only one par 5 that day. Holes 12 and 14 both measuring over 450yards as par 4's into the wind certainly tests your game. The par 3 17th is that hardest par 3 i've ever played, a full 3 wood, and you can certainly see why the 18th is so difficult. |
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| 05 March 2009
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| Response: | | | Gary Miller | 22 March 2009 | | The 17th is not a par 3, the 16th is... | | | vorndron | 01 April 2009 | | Sorry Gary, you're right my mistake, the 16th is a par 3, not the 17th as i wrote, if only I had your eye your detail !! |
| | | Played in Aug. 2008. Course was in very good condition after the summer rain. Absolutely no breather hole on the course, you just keep on going and enjoy every good shot and hole that you have. If you go into playing this with that in mind, you'll have fun. |
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| 05 December 2008
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| | I have been fortunate enough to play some superb golf courses throughout my golfing life, and I rate Carnoustie Championship to be the finest of them all.
I used to organise a weeks golfing holiday to Scotland for myself and 7 other friends, we always visited the East Coast and Carnoustie was always the one we looked forward to the most.
There was no fancy hotel when we first visited...but it didn't matter.
If I had just one game of golf left in me it would be around these fantastic links on a glorious summers day.
I have been blown off of this course by 40mph winds, I have walked off of this course soaked to the skin. I have whimpered off of this course frozen to the core. But I have never walked off of this course without a wry smile on my face thinking "The old girls done me again!"
The front nine, when the wind is in your favour is fairly straightforward. A reasonable score can be strung together. But turn for home, and it's a different tale. One year, our party (which consisted of fairly decent golfers) were all elated because the worst score of the bunch on the front 9 was 17 points, the leader having 22. The back nine? Best score was 9! It's a tale of two halves and woe betide anyone who thinks they've "cracked it" at the turn.
The closing three holes have got to be the toughest finish to any round. Certainly any round that I have ever played.
We always used to play the Burnside course in the morning, a nice little course in it's own right. But it was the Championship that we were all there for.
If you ever visit the East coast of Scotland and don't play this one..........shame on you!
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| 05 December 2008
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| | Haven't yet played many of the courses on the Open rota but we took advantage of the package including the Burnside and third course with the cherry in the pie being the Championship layout. And what a cherry. Anyone who doesnt rate this as one of the best golf courses period, is bonkers. From the moment you tee off and recreate the steps of those great champions you have a very special experience ahead of you. We played on a benign day, the course was an absolute picture in peak condition and so beautifully manicured I'd swear someone has been out with scissors. The closing holes are well recognised to be among the most iconic in the game. I grin with joy at the memory- wonderful! Martyn |
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| 01 October 2008
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| | Played this one a couplke of years ago with a society on a windless August bank holiday. The greens are the fastest i've ever putted on including in America and in Europe but for all that very true.
The stroke saver says as you step onto the 13th Tee, that you are entering the toughest finish in championship golf - how true. |
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| 25 September 2008
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| | Overpriced, maybe. Overrated, certainly not. Just played it on the most beautiful day of our trip, and must say that I thoroughly enjoyed the course. Yea, it has some plain holes and looks like a muni course in places, but that didn’t take away from the mystique for me. I’d play Carnoustie again over the Old Course any day. |
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| 10 September 2008
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| | A very, very good course. Easily one of the best courses I have ever played in my life. It might not have the history and atmosphere of St. Andrews or the beauty of Kingsbarns or Turnberry, and yet it is a brilliant course that is going to test your skills from the first to the last hole. Every hole is a challenge and the last five holes probably represent the most difficult finish in golf. Of course if all you're looking for are scenic views you are going to be dissapointed. But if you're looking for a raw golfing challenge you'll love Carnoustie. Oh, and by the way - the greens are one of the best in the world! |
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| 10 September 2008
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| | Overpriced and overrated. If not for the fact the Open was played here, you would avoid the course. It is flat and boring. Stay in St Andrews or keep driving to Royal Aberdeen. No need to make the stop here. We have played Turnberry, Troon, the Old Course, and Muirfield. How this course stays on the rota is beyond me. It should be played at Royal Aberdeen! Easily the most disappointing course we played in two years. |
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| 21 July 2008
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| Response: | | | joe | 28 September 2008 | | You must be kidding Carnoustie is the best course that i have ever played, the best array of holes and the hardest finish in golf. Without a doubt the best golf course on the "OPEN ROTA" all I could say is you must be looking through rose tinted glasses! Check out the reviews! | | | Robert Smith | 05 December 2008 | | The Old Course? How on earth can you rate the Old Course above Carnoustie? If you like being chased around by a marshall who rakes your bunkers for you to speed up play when there is nobody else on the course on a windy wet March day, then go play the Old Course. If anything was overated and overpriced it is the "home of golf". It has history I'll grant you. And you do feel in awe standiing on the first tee. But once you are out there it's nothing special. | | | pratty | 30 January 2009 | | Overrated, you can't be a links golfer, I've played the Old course, Turnberry, I stay on the door step of Royal Aberdeen, but as a complete course Carnoustie is the one that sets all standards in links golf. | | | austin myers | 10 February 2010 | | Overpriced depends on what you expect to pay on a Championship Course, it's easy to be overawed by facilities etc which in fairness are not in evidence at Carnoustie,but I go to play golf on a course with History & Reputation, no it doesn't have the approach that driving into St Andrews may have. But 'OVERRATED' it is not, this course is a masterpiece when it comes to testing your game, I know of no other links course in Scotland that challenges you mentally on every golf shot. It's like playing chess against a 'Grandmaster' You may think you are in control but you also know that if you slip up you could be in a very risky situation. Not one single hole on this course could ever be seen as routine, clever bunkering, water you name it, Carnoustie has it All. Almost every golfer who I have asked to make a comparison with St Andrews Old Course and the Carnoustie Championship course would give the vote to Carnoustie. Flat, you need to stand on the raised 3rd tee Jockies Burn and see what lies ahead the view of the course on any day is Breathtaking, similarly on an early Spring morning at 7.00am a walk up the 2nd is a sight for sore eyes, the undulations,rise and fall of the course just makes you want to weep with joy. I love this course, spread my ashes on the tee at the 15th Lucky Slap and I'm in the place some call Heaven. | | | william | 15 May 2010 | | Did we have a bad round? The best and hardest links course in scotland maybe the world (we dont play target golf in scotland) just review the wee ice mons comments. | | | MJDundee | 16 July 2010 | | You just don't have a clue - Americans don't call this course Car-nasty for nothing - one of the toughest around. | | | Kin | 17 July 2010 | | I have been watching the responses blasting my post for the last two years. A few comments. 1) Most importantly, this is my opinion and I stand by it. You are certainly entitled to disagree. 2) After three trips to Scotland and having played around 25 different courses, this is one of the few I would not play again. In fact, our group spent ten days recently in St Andrews and no one who played Carnoustie in 2008 opted to play it again. Part of the issue…. it certainly belongs in the category of over-priced courses along with Kingsbarns and Royal Troon. 3) No, I did not have a bad round. In fact, I had one of the better rounds of the trip. Score did not impact my thoughts. My worst round in all the trips was at Cruden Bay, but I would go back and play it at the drop of a hat. 4) I do believe the aesthetics and setting are a critical component of the golf experience. There is simply nothing pleasing about the area around the course. So many more courses are simply pleasing to the eye while being a challenge to play. For this reason, I would place it behind many courses to include the Old Course, Royal Dornoch, Cruden Bay, Turnberry, Muirfield, Royal Aberdeen, North Berwick, and Machrihanish. 5) However, I agree in one sense. A two ball rating was probably too low. But it certainly does not warrant a five or six ball rating when compared with the previously listed courses. 6) Perspective had undue influence. The review was written after a trip which included North Berwick, Cruden Bay, Royal Aberdeen, Royal Dornoch, Brora and Nairn. Carnoustie simply did not stack up well when compared to those courses. I truly believe so many of the high ratings for Carnoustie are driven solely by it being a rota course and the feeling it must be great because they play the Open here. | | | Big Lugs | 03 May 2013 | | This is the review I have just written about Carnoustie. Can only agree with you....To say I was dissapointed would be an understatement. Played Carnoustie Champ course on 30th April 2013. No range facilities just a double sized net, putting green had no hole flags, and in general the course did not come anywhere near my expectations. Some of the fairways had been returffed and the 17th was pref lies due to re-turfing. Basically the course is really flat with some great bunkering but nothing to write home about. We paid almost £150 to play which I would say was £100 overpriced. The following day we played Kingsbarns which was £175 and it was worth every penny, what a fantastic golf course that is. I think Carnoustie would be a fair place to play if you paid £50/£60 but no more. | | | SR | 11 May 2013 | | "Putting green had no hole flags" Remind me never to play Carnoustie again until this is rectified. |
| | | Simply the best course I have ever played. As a test of golf it is unbeatable. Birkdale is prettier but not as tough, Hoylake is steeped in history and strategic but not as good as this. Not played Muirfield but would like to compare. I play of six and was at the top of my game and still played a couple over my handicap. I would love to play here every week. Great value package too, Burnside is a gem also. Links staff and town were very friendly which made for a great stay. |
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| 19 March 2008
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| | Played the championship course in mid-october and really enjoyed it. Very friendly staff and rangers on the course. Condition was excellent with the greens running as true as you could find. Bunkering was really impressive and sets the standard of how it should be done. Found the par 5's short even though we played off tees close to the back. Probably the greatest finishing 3 holes in golf!! |
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| 30 October 2007
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| | Really enjoyed it. Much more fun than I anticipated. A great test of golf. |
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| 05 September 2007
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| | Carnoustie is a very penal course but also fair. Playing it for the first time a couple of weeks ago, I found it to be in fantastic shape after the OPEN. The first 4 holes and the last 4 I thought were the most difficult. The final holes being with the prevailing wind make it difficult to keep a ball on the green. The course is a timeless classic. I escaped with an 82 after starting even through 6 holes. The par 3 8th is a short hole that will jump up and get you in a hurry with a slightly errant shot. The small bunkers on either side are a difficult escape once you have found them. My experience there was a fantastic golf memory and the staff couldn't have been any nicer. This is a must play for visitors.
Looking forward to my next trip! |
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| 11 August 2007
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| | Being a member of Carnoustie i am feel i should write and make a point to all of you who call Carnoustie an ugly golf course. If you had played carnoustie before the Open in 1999 you will be aware of the changes that are now in place. Due to the R&A's instructions many trees where cut down from areas which gave natural beauty to make way for granstands and arenas for spectators particulary holes 15 and 16. 2 years ago trees where cut down from behind the 6th green and the right of the 14th fairway. These changes took away the beauty of some of the holes you can still buy water colours of these holes with the trees in place. So before calling Carnoustie ugly phone the R&A and tell them to stop ruining golf courses to fill there coffers with spectator money.
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| 14 May 2007
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| | Played for the second time with the grandstands going up already at the start of May. Stunning course. I still played like an arse but who cares. The course is magnificent and just as bamboozling as it was when I played it 4 years ago. Love it! |
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| 08 May 2007
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| | My third visit to Carnoustie and after my initial thoughts in 2003 of ‘a little ordinary in places’ I now appreciate the course so much more. Subtle magnet-like bunkering just beckoning your ball on many holes. Played the course as a par 70 and just about impossible to get near handicap and this was after my par-birdie start. Jockie’s Burn is the 3rd hole and this will be great to watch at the Open in July. Short par-4 and no doubt there will be a lot of birdies but I am sure we will see plenty of bogeys or even worse. The bad memories of ‘Carnastie’ at the 1999 Open will be put to rest in 2007 as the course is looking good and the rough is manageable. In saying this, the length of the holes will be really interesting, especially the 18th… which will be 499 yards (par 4) and probably into the wind…another drama filled last hole on the last day? I do hope so. |
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| 07 May 2007
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| | The town of Carnoustie may disappoint (it’s a complete dump) – but the course does not. Played on a breezy day in April 2007 – off mats which didn’t dampen our enjoyment as much as I’d expected. The course was immaculate and will provide a great test for the Open later in the year.
Favourite holes were the 3rd, 6th and 10th – and then the closing stretch from 13. From 15 onwards they don’t come any harder. We played these final 4 just as the wind really started and I’ll be interested to see how the pros do on them as they battle for the claret jug….level par is no mean feat. The 15th is an awesome par 4, the 16th a brute of a par 3 – at 245 yards. We played 18 into the wind and I creamed my drive and a 3 iron and still had a full wedge to clear Barry’s burn. Memorable stuff!
You need to make a score on the opening 12 holes – which is possible and then try to hold on from there. What impressed me most about the course was that you need to think your way around. You cannot simply blast a driver on every hole. The rough was fair (I don’t think this will be a repeat of ’99) – but as the course meanders round like a snake, no two holes run in the same direction. We paid £52.50 in April 2007 – an absolute bargain and I’ll definitely be going back. As good as it gets….jbwt
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| 23 April 2007
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| Response: | | | jimmy | 25 April 2007 | | hey man thats not nice talking about my town like that! its not a dump you are just so far up your own arse that u cant see how much of a nice place it is... | | | MICHAEL | 23 July 2007 | | You are way off the mark with your comments.
I found the town just fine and the people were superb. | | | dan h | 13 February 2010 | | I must say that Carnoustie has possibly the worst main road traffic system in the Western world, but a GREAT curry house and the pubs are friendly even if they stop doing food at 8 ! Will be back in a few weeks, can't wait. And if you are after cosmopolitan night life, Broughty Ferry is only a ten minute cab ride away ! dan |
| | | Played off mats on a sunny april day. The place was under loads of paint work to prepare for the Open. I must say Carnoustie doesn’t have the same big feel other Open courses have, maybe because that big white hotel really lacks charm and so does the town in the background. We played from the white tees, about a 7000 yds layout. I didn’t feel Carnoustie was a more difficult course than other championship courses despite what is usually said. Anyway, the course was in decent condition, no more…nice fairways that we were not allowed to touch and patchy sandy greens, true but slow. This course feels more heath land than proper links. Lots of good holes but no really memorable ones until the last 3 holes that I really loved! All in all a good course, but not as good as Muirfield, Birkdale or Turnberry…Cédric |
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| 21 April 2007
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| | I played Carnoustie on a sunny day in September, with just enough wind (wouldn't want to play this one without wind now would we?). It is frankly the best layout I have ever played. There is not one weak hole, and you need to think all the time. However, it is not as tough as everyone makes it out to be, and if you can drive the ball relatively straight and stay out of the deepest bunkers you will be fine. My favourite holes were the 6th, Hogan's Alley, which I managed to birdie, and the fantastic finishing holes from 14 to 18, none of which I parred! All the staff on the course were extremely friendly. I can't wait for next year's open! Kem Westdyk, South Africa |
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| 26 September 2006
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| | Crosstie was at its calmest when we played. We enjoyed a nice gentle breeze on a sunny September Sunday. Probably why most of us played so well, although as you would expect there were a few comedy errors on the last three holes.
The course is not a pretty one and with the exception of the first two holes there is not a links feel as I know it. I am used to isolated, rugged coastline links. Carnoustie plays mostly inland and is surrounded by other golf courses, a railway and a hideous hotel. It is also very much a local golfing area and there are links after links running along this coastline. No special treatment is given for Carnoustie either, the starters hut is a basic one and there is no plush clubhouse awaiting to comfort well healed Yanks and Southerners like our selves. Also unless someone told you and there weren’t links bunkers most of the course could have passed as a parkland course.
But what a course it is. You have to really think how you play this course even without the wind. We played off the Whites rather than the Yellows (strangely the easier option) and hired a caddy to guide our four ball round (a wise idea at £15 each). The rough though was cut down to tourist level i.e. an inch or two of wispy/tufty grass and I think this did take away from making the course feel like a true links and in reality made the course a lot easier as you were never in danger of losing a ball.
All of us agreed it was the best course on the tour, despite the stunningly beautiful Kingsbarns the day before. There are no weak holes and because there had been a College amateur championship the day before the pin positions were as tough as they come, on the short third it was on the front right by the burn; on Brae the fifth it was on the plateau at the rear ……….. and I four putted. There are too many strategic features to note them all but it was a real true test of golf for any handicap, even before the very famous last three holes which are as tough as they come. Why is the 16th the toughest par three on the open rota? Because it is a short par four for most people …… 245yards. The very famous last two holes are masterpieces, the ultimate risk and reward holes with the 18th throwing up even more problems with the out of bounds on the left.
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| 21 September 2006
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| | Played the Championship course at Carnoustie on 7/19/06. From the second you look out over the course from the hotel veranda you realize this is the real deal. This is not a country club, it is not architecturally contrived b.s., it is true golf. The first nine are very, very difficult, the last nine are impossible; the last three of which are unquestionably the most difficult holes you will ever play. I felt as though I had just gone 15 rounds with Mike Tyson after I putted out on 18. I chuckle when I read people writing about the grimness of the town. Carnoustie is a working town, but if you take the time to get off the Links Parade you will see beautiful winding roads leading to houses looking out over the North Sea. The course is a lot like the town, you have to have the guts to make the trip, pay $202, put a peg in the ground and become part of it for the next 4 hours. If you do, I promise you one thing, it will test your toughness, but it will make you a better golfer and a stronger person. There are no easy shots here, not one. Every hole is a work of art. What do you get in return? You will never fear another course again, ever, because there are none tougher anywhere, that's a guarantee. |
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| 27 July 2006
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| | This is one mean, mean golf course when the wind blows. I rate it the toughest in Scotland and Ireland. True I played it before the hotel was built, and the Open was scheduled to return, so it was in pretty rough shape. But it is a gem and I am grateful the R&A put it back into the rotation. Not a course I would want to play every week but a must play for golfers who appreciate history and wish to be challenged to the max. Put your ego aside and enjoy the test. |
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| 11 May 2006
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| | I have been moved to write a review because of the variety of coments on here. I have played Carnoustie 4 times and play off a handicap of 9. I think there is some truth in all the comments here. There is no doubt that it's a great course and something of an "Everest" experience: you had to play there because it was there! As soon as you walk off the course you can 'think' your way back through the round and that is always a good sign especially on a links course as sometimes many of the par fours can be samey. Not here. The course goes round in an anti clockwise circle so the direction of the wind changes throughout the round and makes you think more than an out and back lay out. The bunkers are as they should be: if you go in one you drop a shot. There's certainly nothing more than a wedge to be hit from any of the fairway bunkers. However the course is far from pretty. The town of Carnoustie is grim an grey and the railway and industrial horizon dominates for 4 or 5 of the holes. The greens are excellent, fast an true. Its also not as tough as people make out: if the wind is up you won't play to your handicap but if it's just a breeze and you plot your way round avoiding the bunkers, there is no reason why you can't score. There won't be many birdies to be had but use your shots and pars are there for the taking. I'd advise you to go and make up your own mind. It's a course i respect but not one i necessarily enjoy: a bit like taking an exam. If you pass you feel great, but if you fail.................... |
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| 27 February 2006
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| | So you think you're a golfer? Play Carnoustie to your handicap and you've truly earned the right to call yourself one. I play off 11 and am delighted to break 90 here. There are simply no easy holes here and the final 6 are undoubtedly the most difficult anywhere. So many great holes and absolutely no let-up. I make a point of playing Carnoustie once a year and would urge all golfers to get here as often as possible. |
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| 04 February 2006
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| | I love the links at Carnoustie. I've played the course five times, and each time I play it I realize what a wonderful layout this course is. Everything is out in front of you, but it takes a skillful round of golf to shoot any kind of a decent score. The fairway bunkering is simply magnificent and forces you to plan your way around the course. The finish can be brutal, and I've never quite figure out how to play the 17th hole, but other than that I can say nothing but great things about this links. Anyone who has the chance to play here should |
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| 19 November 2005
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| | I'll agree with reviewer’s comments also on the "bland" feeling of Carnoustie. Those industrial buildings do stand out and take some of the special appeal away.
But don't let this put you off!! The greens are superb, the caddies very friendly and knowledgeable, and as for that closing stretch, wow! You have to go for the Van De Velde shot regardless of whether you make it or not. I did, and made it (just). Good job I did, the tide was in and the water waist deep!!! |
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| 18 November 2005
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| | For the dedicated golfer only, the previous reviewer who described the course as dull was right. Try the qualifying course at Royal Montrose as an alternative. |
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| 06 November 2005
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| | Excellent, Tough, Challenging - all words normally asscociated with Carnoustie. Often true, I think she is a little misunderstood because of the Open stories that are told. Here are my views: This is a golf course designed to keep you honest. It is brutal if you leave your brain in the car park. Forget the notion of par and enjoy the course for what it is. Probably the truest greens in Scotland making putting a pleasure. Par 4's are long and often 5 is a good score, even for the low handicaps. You have to avoid faiway bunkers at all costs or double bogey is guaranteed. What makes this course so hard is the carries over greenside bunkers into tight pins. the courses rarely offers the traditional long links run ups if you want to score well. Possibly the best bunkering after Muirfield of any golf course. Best Par 3 - 16th, because it is a Par 4!! Best Par 4 - 15th, just a great hole from tee to green. Best Par 5 - 5th You have to aim it out bounds in the to hit this skinny fairway, but 2 good shots gives you birdie every time. 16,17 and 18 are damm tough, but not great golf holes.. if that makes sense. Carnoustie is a great golf course. Don't let the Winter experiences of some deminsih it!! |
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| 03 October 2005
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| | Although not as visually stimulating as Royal Dornoch, Royal Aberdeen or say North Berwick, Carnoustie is without a doubt a beast. We played it on a day with little wind (<10 mph) and I played very well to post an 83 (handicap is 6). Not as true of a links course as I had heard. In fact, the well watered fairways made it more like an American version of a links course. The caddies were great and the experiece excellent. The course bites hard over the last 6 holes. This truly is one of the hardest courses in the UK. I rank it only behind Dornoch, Royal Aberdeen and the Old Course as my favorites in Scotland. --Brett Robison |
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| 15 August 2005
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| | Played the course in a light wind off mats in February 2003. Great clubhouse (the hotel) but not so great course or surroundings. I thought this was meant to be a 'great big shaggy beast' but it turned out to be a scruffy mongrel! The industrial
works beside the course just killed the atmosphere of playing a championship venue for me. And I thought the terrain very bland and featureless - if it wasn't for the burn it would be pretty boring, actually. I'm sorry, maybe it was because I played off season (though I've played the Ailsa in November and loved it) and the place was not looking its best, it just did not cut it for me and will remain an overrated track in my mind until I get the chance to play it again. James McCann. |
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| 21 January 2005
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