Old Course’s closing hole is voted the best in Scotland

Poll respondents select final stretch at Home of Golf as the country’s finest

The closing hole at St Andrews’ Old Course has been voted the best golf hole in Scotland in a new poll.

Around 3,000 golfers took part in the VisitScotland vote, with participants choosing the famous final stretch at the Home of Golf ahead of a formidable selection from the country’s world-class courses.

The poll, part of VisitScotland’s Spirit of Scotland campaign, asked golfers to vote for the best opening and closing holes, a best par 3, 4 and 5, as well as a best view and a best overall hole from a selection of shortlisted holes across the country.

Tom Morris, St Andrews’ iconic final hole and home to the Valley of Sin, took the award for the best hole and best closing hole, while its neighbouring 17th hole was voted the best par 4 in Scotland.

The 9th hole at Cruden Bay Golf Club on the Aberdeenshire coast claimed the award for best view, with a stunning vista across the Bay of Cruden and Slains Castle, beating competition from the Castle Course at St Andrews, Machrihanish Dunes and Gullane Golf Club.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, said: “We’re thrilled that the golfing public have taken the time to put their support behind their favourite courses in Scotland, from local favourites to the home of golf itself, St Andrews.

“Every club plays it part in making Scotland the essential golfing destination, so we’re proud to honour such a diverse range of our spectacular courses.”

The Machrihanish Golf Club confirmed its status as the owner of the best opening hole in the world.

Moray Golf Club’s closing hole, overlooking the Moray Firth, came second in its category, ahead of both Carnoustie and Turnberry.

The 12th hole at neighbouring Hopeman Golf Club, received more than 120 votes for the best view, despite not being shortlisted.

The Postage Stamp (8th) at Troon was voted the best par 3 in Scotland, while the 12th hole at Kingsbarns Golf Club on the Fife coast was voted the best par 5.

The neighbour of St Andrews finished ahead of holes from Castle Stuart (18th), 2014 Ryder Cup venue Gleneagles (16th) and the recently redesigned Ailsa course at Trump Turnberry (10th).