Is it possible to use a golf cart at St. Andrews or other golf courses in Scotland or Ireland?
As you probably already know, golf carts (or buggies, as they are called in Europe) are not widely found or used in Scotland and Ireland like they are here in the United States (although they are widely available in other European countries such as Spain and Portugal).
That being said, some golf courses in Scotland and Ireland have one or two carts available provided you have a doctor's note explaining your need for one. Such is the case at St. Andrews. The following policy regarding golf carts
appears on the St. Andrews Links Trust website:
Golf Buggies (Carts) — Old Course only:
Golfers who are registered disabled with a permanent condition of disability and relevant supporting documentation may request a buggy for use on the Old Course between April and October. It will be driven by a qualified caddie driver and the fee is £40. Golfer's disability documentation should be provided at the time of booking. This information can be faxed. When entering the ballot, please bring documentation with you.
Other courses:
Buggies may be taken on the New, Strathtyrum and Balgove courses by senior citizens and golfers with a medical certificate, subject to availability. The fee is £18. Please book in advance.
The Jubilee and Eden Courses are not safe for buggies. No personal buggies are allowed on the Links.
So, there you have it. Just get a note from your doctor and you're good to go. Below is a partial list of other good courses that have buggies available:
Ireland:
- Ballybunion's Cashen Course
- Kinsale Golf Club
- Portmarnock Golf Club
- St.Margarets Golf Course
- The K Club
- Druids Glen
Scotland:
- Royal Dornoch Golf Course
- Nairn Golf Club
- Gleneagles
If you already know the region of the country to which you'd like to travel, my best advice would be to contact the courses in that region (many have websites and email addresses) and inquire about the use of "buggies."
Hope this helps. Have a great trip!
