St Andrews Golf Museum
Visitors planning a trip to the R&A World Golf Museum often look for St Andrews self catering accommodation so they can stay close to one of the town’s most fascinating golf attractions. Located beside the world-famous Old Course at St Andrews, the museum offers a remarkable journey through more than 500 years of golfing history.
Overlooking the sweeping sands of West Sands Beach, the museum is one of the most interesting things to do in St Andrews for golf enthusiasts. Staying in nearby self catering accommodation allows visitors to easily explore the museum while also enjoying the historic town centre and legendary golf courses.
The History of The R&A World Golf Museum
The R&A World Golf Museum sits directly opposite The Royal and Ancient Clubhouse, and celebrates the rich history of golf in the town where the sport developed into a global game.
Originally opened in 1990 as the British Golf Museum, the venue was created to preserve and share the story of golf from its earliest Scottish origins through to the modern professional era.
What You’ll See Inside
Step into The R&A World Golf Museum and experience golf like never before. Travel through 400 years of golfing history and discover incredible stories, dramatic championship moments and icons of the sport. The past, present, and future of golf is brought together in an immersive, engaging space, from the earliest known golf clubs to the heroes of today, who are shaping golf’s future.
Explore golf’s landscape and leading figures through the Museum’s current temporary exhibition ‘Masterstrokes: 200 Years of Scottish Golfing Art’, running until March 2027.
The self-guided galleries allow visitors to enjoy the Museum at their own pace; by booking in advance, private guided tours can be offered, subject to availability.
A Setting Steeped in Golfing Heritage
One of the highlights of visiting the Museum is its spectacular location. Positioned directly opposite the first tee of the Old Course, the building offers panoramic views across one of the most famous golf courses in the world.
Visiting the Museum
The Museum is open throughout the year and welcomes visitors of all ages.
During the summer months, opening hours typically run from 9:00 to 18:00, while winter hours are usually from 10:00 to 16:00. Please visit the website to view the current prices and to book – Visit Website
The R&A Shop, located within the Museum, is the perfect place for visitors to purchase their St Andrews souvenirs, offering an extensive selection of products and gift ideas to suit all tastes and budgets, including The Open, AIG Women’s Open, Senior Open and Walker Cup merchandise.
Many guests choose to stay close to the historic courses when visiting St Andrews. You can explore our full collection of St Andrews holiday properties to find accommodation ideally located for enjoying both the town and its world-famous golf courses.
For those interested in discovering more about the game during their stay, you can also browse our wider St Andrews golfing guide, which explores the many experiences available for golfers visiting the Home of Golf.
A Must-Visit for Golf Enthusiasts
For anyone visiting St Andrews, The R&A World Golf Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the story behind the sport’s most famous destination. Many visitors combine a trip to the Museum with a walk around the Old Course or as part of a wider golf break in the town.
Whether you are planning to play the legendary links or simply wish to experience the history and traditions that define St Andrews, the Museum provides an engaging and memorable glimpse into the origins and evolution of the game.
