In golf, the term ‘links’ refers to a specific type of golf course, typically located on coastal sand dunes and characterized by its natural, undulating terrain, deep bunkers, few water hazards, and strong winds. Links courses originated in Scotland and historically used the natural landscape without altering the land, providing a unique and challenging golf experience.
Origin and Characteristics of Links Golf Courses
Links golf courses have their origins in Scotland and were among the first types of golf courses ever created. The name ‘links’ is derived from the Old English word ‘hlinc,’ meaning ‘rising ground’ or ‘ridge.’ These courses were typically built along the coast where the natural dunes and ridges provided the ideal landscape for golf.
Undulating Terrain
One of the main features of links courses is their undulating terrain. The natural hills and valleys create a unique golf experience, as each hole is apt to have a different elevation and varying slopes. This terrain requires golfers to hone their ball-striking skills and make precise shots.
Deep Bunkers and Few Water Hazards
Links courses traditionally have deep bunkers, known as ‘pot bunkers,’ which add to the challenge of playing these layouts. These bunkers often have high, steep faces that make escaping difficult. In contrast, links courses generally have few water hazards, as they are built on sandy soil with little water accumulation.
Strong Winds and Firm Turf
The coastal location of links courses exposes them to strong winds that can significantly influence ball flight. Golfers must account for these variable wind conditions as they play each hole. Additionally, the firm and fast turf often found on links courses allows for significant roll-out on well-struck shots, making it essential for golfers to plan their shots accordingly to account for the added distance.
Strategies to Play Links Golf Courses
The Run-Up Shot
One of the most important aspects of playing a links course is mastering the run-up shot. Due to the firm turf conditions, golfers are encouraged to use a lower-trajectory shot that lands short of the green and rolls up onto it. This technique can be quite different from what is required at traditional parkland courses, where players often aim for a higher trajectory to stop the ball on soft greens.
Club Selection and Ball Flight
When playing a links course, club selection becomes critical due to the effects of the wind. Golfers need to choose the proper club to control ball flight, often opting to use lower-lofted clubs to keep the ball low and piercing through the wind. It’s essential to consider a shot’s shape and trajectory to minimize the influence of wind on the ball.
Putting and Chipping on Links Greens
Putting on links greens can pose an added challenge due to the undulating surfaces and often thicker grass around the greens. Reading the break accurately and controlling the pace of putts are essential skills to master. Additionally, chipping from the tight lies around links greens may require the use of different clubs and techniques to achieve optimal results.
Golf Universe’s Top Links Courses to Experience
At Golf Universe, we believe that playing a true links course is an essential part of every golfer’s journey. The historic connection and unique golfing experiences provided by these courses are unmatched by any other golf course style. To aid our readers in discovering some of the best links courses, we have compiled a list of must-play destinations.
The Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland
As the birthplace of golf, the Old Course at St. Andrews should be at the top of every golfer’s list. This iconic links course has a storied history that dates back over 600 years and has been the setting for numerous Open Championships. Navigating the town’s ancient stone walls and mastering the legendary double greens are just a few of the challenges you’ll face during this bucket-list experience.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, California, USA
Pebble Beach Golf Links is one of the most sensational courses in the world. Set along California’s stunning coastline, this famous layout blends spectacular scenery with challenging golf holes. Marine bunkers, rolling fairways, and notoriously-small greens make for unforgettable rounds where precision and strategy are paramount. A visit to Pebble Beach immerses golfers in an experience like no other, which is one of the reasons Golf Universe wholeheartedly recommends this course.
Royal County Down, Northern Ireland
Lying amongst the dramatic dunes and sweeping landscapes of Northern Ireland, Royal County Down has gained a reputation as one of the world’s premier links courses. The mystique of the ancient Mourne Mountains, gorse-lined fairways, and the ripping wind will challenge golfers skill and mental fortitude. A round at Royal County Down is a rite of passage for any serious golfer and comes highly recommended by us at Golf Universe.
Experience the Joys of Links Golf
As a blog about golf, Golf Universe believes it’s imperative for golf enthusiasts to experience links golf firsthand. The blend of natural landscapes, rich history, and strategic challenges make links courses an essential part of any passionate golfer’s journey. When you find yourself teeing it up on one of these remarkable tracks, embrace the wind, adapt your shot-making, and most importantly, savor the unique experience that is links golf.
Frequently Asked Questions
After reading about links golf courses, you may find yourself with some lingering questions. In this FAQ section, we address some common inquiries to help clarify any uncertainties and enhance your understanding of this unique style of golf.
What is the main difference between links and parkland courses?
Links courses are typically found on coastal terrains with undulating landscapes and sandy soil, featuring fewer trees, deep pot bunkers, and strong winds. Parkland courses, on the other hand, are often located inland with plenty of trees, lush fairways, and softer greens, resembling more of a traditional garden or park setting.
Why do links courses have such deep bunkers?
Deep bunkers, known as pot bunkers, have formed naturally on links courses over time due to wind and water erosion. These bunkers add to the challenge and character of links golf, requiring precision and a good understanding of bunker play to avoid being trapped by their steep walls.
How do I prepare for playing a links course for the first time?
Before playing a links course, practice controlling your ball flight, especially keeping it low into the wind. Master the run-up shot, as well as chipping and putting on undulating surfaces. It’s also helpful to study the course layout and familiarize yourself with the challenges you may face, such as blind shots, hidden bunkers, and deep rough.
Are all links courses located in the United Kingdom?
Though links courses originated in the United Kingdom, they can be found worldwide, particularly in coastal regions with similar soil and weather conditions. Notable links courses outside of the UK include Bandon Dunes in Oregon, USA, and Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania, Australia.
Why is links golf considered more challenging than other types of golf?
Links golf can be more demanding due to its unique terrain, firm and fast conditions, and strong wind exposure. These factors require golfers to adopt different playing strategies and adapt their shot-making skills accordingly. The natural, unaltered design of links courses also tends to offer less margin for error compared to other course types.
