The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews is the original home of golf, and is widely known as the most prestigious golf course in the world, despite still not offering women the opportunity of membership.

The club was founded in 1754 and its history is closely linked with the fortunes of the city of St. Andrews. Once the religious capital of Scotland, St. Andrews came under fire during the reformation; the university was in danger of being moved to Perth and the cathedral lay in ruins. The turning point was when “22 Noblemen and Gentlemen of the Kingdom of Fife” presented a silver club to be competed for over the linksland of St. Andrews in May 1754. It is thought that their motives were to promote the enjoyment of the game and the “conviviality which always followed”, and to stimulate the return of the glory days “when royalty and religious leaders were regular visitors”.

Today, St. Andrews is the leading authority on golf in the world. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews remains as a private golf club with a world-wide membership of 2,400. As a members’ golf club, it aims to provide first class golfing facilities. Twice yearly, in Spring and Autumn, the members meet to compete in competitions, which include the Spring and Autumn Medals.

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