The Duke's Course

The rough has been allowed to grow on top of the bunkers and while it’s not a new idea, it is a good one and lends to the natural look of the course. Along with the riot of colour from the gorse, whins, bracken and trees, The Duke’s is a beauty.

If I had to pick out any holes, it would be the short third and the fifth, a terrific par 4, as is the seventh while the new finish with fine holes at 17 and 18 are a definite improvement. The Duke’s lies in the grounds of the Mount Melville Estate which was originally owned by the Younger family - the famous brewers.

In the heart of the estate is Mount Melville House, a beautiful Grade B listed Victorian mansion which is being restored to its former glory and it includes a leisure and health club, apartments and suites to complement the excellent 5-star clubhouse.

Kohler, the USA based company who acquired the hotel and golf course in 2004, have spared no expense in their revamp of the Dukes and their plans for its future, much as they done since they took over The Old Course Hotel, refurbishing the 144 rooms and 35 suites, some 23 of which have been revamped in the style of French designer Jacques Garcia.

Garcia’s rich, red silk-lined walls and opulence is everywhere and many of the rooms have private balconies with picture-postcard views of the Old Course and the town of St Andrews. Many suites feature the distinctive Kohler touch, including chromatherapy (colour therapy) baths.