Crail Balcome, part of the Crail golfing society is the 7th oldest Golf club in the world. The Balcombe Links designed by Old Tom Morris may be short in modern-day standards but those thinking a Par 69 will be a walk in the park, Do so at your own peril.
The Balcombe Links was first laid out as a nine-hole course in 1894 and lengthened to 18 holes four years later. A traditional Links course governed by the lie of the land is a true hidden gem in Scotland and is located just 12 miles from the ‘Auld Grey Toon’ of St. Andrews.
Considering Tom’s St. Andreian roots, his statement made of Balcombe Links is noteworthy.
“There is no better in Scotland.”
The first five golf holes make for a truly thrilling golf test, with stunning views over the beautiful remote setting and you really get a sense of travelling back in time. Tom took full advantage of this course's location, and every hole has stunning sea views where the prevailing wind makes the course not just enchanting but a real delight to play. Those who can manage the par of 63 ( Including six Par 3’s ) will have achieved a thoroughly rewarding score, and no doubt would have had to play every shot from the Arsenal.
The course measures just 5,922 from the men's medal tees and offers so much variety between holes. We feel that Balcombe needs to be played twice in one day to really take in the full atmosphere and appreciate just how good the links course is.
A Leisurely lunch between rounds could not get any better than at this quaint and beautiful clubhouse perched high on the rocks overlooking the 18th green. The Views overlook one of the most spectacular locations of any clubhouse in Scotland.
Signature Hole
The 4th Hole (Fluke Dub) offers a good dogleg choice choosing between being safe or greedy. A Great driving hole with a shot over the bay is required, How much you take off from this hole will depend entirely on your driving distance and the direction of the wind. The fairway's left-hand side gives the best line into this shallow green protected by railway sleeper pot bunkers. This hole is so camera-worthy and an absolute joy to play.
Crail Balcome may not be the reason for your trip to Scotland in search of bucket list golf courses but one that should absolutely be added on to any golf trip. The value of playing a Tom Morris golf that can offer a green fee from just over £35.00 in the winter months and never over the £100.00 mark is outstanding.
Crail Balcome is one of our finest Hidden Gem golf courses.
