Iconic St Andrews hotel 'closes' in countdown to The Open in 2027
Work being undertaken as part of ‘exciting renovation journey’
One of the leading hotels in St Andrews has announced it has “temporarily closed” in the build up to The 155th Open being held on the Old Course next year.
The-five star Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, which overlooks the infamous Road Hole at the iconic Fife venue, revealed the step, which started last Sunday, in a post on social media.
It read: “We’ll be taking a short break! This winter, Old Course Hotel will be temporarily closed for a few weeks as we continue our exciting renovation journey. Kohler Waters Spa, Kohler Fitness, Jigger Inn and Hams Hame will remain open.”
‘Even more to discover’
The post added: “While the hotel is closed, we’ll be refreshing our lobby and public spaces and getting ready to unveil The Emporium, our new boutique opening as well as a newly-refurbished pro shop.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming you back very soon, with even more to discover!”
Owned by Kohler Co., the Old Course Hotel is where top players often stay when events are being held in St Andrews.
“These upcoming enhancements build on our ongoing commitment to evolve with intention and care,” said Phyllis Wilkie, the Old Course Hotel general manager. “Each new space has been designed to feel warm, welcoming and deeply connected to the landscape and character of St Andrews. We’re creating experiences that ensure guests continue to feel a sense of arrival that is unmistakably Old Course Hotel.
“The renovation programme for 2026 continues the momentum of an exceptional year of investment across the site. From the transformation of Kohler Waters Spa to the redesign of our fourth-floor dining and accommodation spaces, 2025 saw us elevate the guest experience in ways we’re all very proud of.
“These latest projects allow us to build on that success and further enhance the comfort, craft and hospitality our guests return for year after year.”
The Open next year will mark the 31st time that the Claret Jug event has been played over the Old Course.
The last staging in 2022 was won by Australian Cameron Smith, with Rory McIlroy, who finished third on that occasion after sharing the lead with a round to go, returning next year to try and achieve one of his few remaining goals in golf by tasting success in St Andrews.
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