Duke’s Course to Transition to Craigtoun Course in 2026
News Summary
The Duke’s Course is set to be rebranded as the Craigtoun Course on January 5, 2026, as the St. Andrews Links Trust takes over management. This change marks the first new course addition in 18 years and promises to enhance the golfing experience with modern facilities while also addressing the growing demand for golf in the area. Existing members will retain their membership through the transition, ensuring a seamless experience as the course embraces its new identity.
The Exciting Transformation: Duke’s Course Becomes Craigtoun Course in 2026!
Golf enthusiasts, gather around! There’s a *buzzing* development on the horizon that you won’t want to miss. The St. Andrews Links Trust is set to take over the *Duke’s Course* on January 5, 2026, rebranding it as the Craigtoun Course. This change, just a couple of years away, is inspired by the course’s stunning location near Craigtoun Country Park. Yes, the greens are about to get a brand new name and a fresh identity!
New Beginnings for an Iconic Course
The Craigtoun Course will proudly join the ranks of the St. Andrews Links Trust, which currently manages seven iconic public courses, including the world-renowned Old Course. Can you believe it? The Craigtoun Course will mark the eighth addition to their collection – and let’s not forget, it’s the first new course in a whopping 18 years! Talk about a major milestone!
History Meets Innovation
The course, originally designed by the legendary five-time Open champion *Peter Thomson*, first opened its doors for play in 1995. After coming under the ownership of the Kohler Company in 2004, the Duke’s Course underwent some renovations in 2006 led by Tim Liddy. These upgrades introduced five new holes and enhanced the course’s distinctive *heathland feel*, making it a captivating destination for all golfers.
A Unique Playing Experience
The Craigtoun Course offers an impressive layout that stretches up to 7,512 yards from the championship tees. With five tee options that range down to 5,216 yards, there’s a perfect choice for every skill level. The course showcases a striking mix of tall pine trees and expansive bunkerscapes, providing a unique playing experience unlike the traditional links courses associated with St. Andrews. It’s sure to challenge players and delight nature lovers alike!
New Branding and Facilities
Watching Demand Surge
Did you know that nearly 300,000 rounds of golf are played each year on the Links Trust courses? That’s some serious golf love! Neil Coulson, the Chief Executive of the Links Trust, highlighted that this transition will provide additional capacity to meet the *unprecedented demand* for golf in the area. As more players flock to this popular destination, it’s clear that the Craigtoun Course will serve as an essential part of the golfing community.
Membership Updates and Future Plans
For the existing members of the Duke’s Course, the transition will keep things smooth. They will retain their membership under the same terms throughout 2026, ensuring a seamless experience even as everything is changing around them. As for visitors, detailed green fee pricing is set to be announced in the coming weeks, giving everyone a chance to experience the allure of the Craigtoun Course without missing a beat.
A Fond Farewell and A Welcoming Tomorrow
As we look forward, one thing is clear: the Craigtoun Course is set to become a cherished destination for golfers everywhere, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
End of an Era: Ralph Landrum’s Legacy in Golf
Duke’s Course Rebrands as Craigtoun Course