Leven Links Golf Club

Leven Links in Fife, Scotland, tracks its history back to 1846, making it one of the oldest golf courses around. The beginnings of the course are sketchy, but it's known that it was extended to 18 holes in 1868 and that until 1876, the course was maintained by players and their families. The original Leven Links layout was retained until 1909 when a division at the Mile Dyke with Lundin Links extended the eastern section.

The golf course is 6,506 yards from the championship tees and a par 71. It plays long in the first four holes, all par 4s of varying length (No. 1 is 416 yards, No. 4 is 450), but it's much more up and down as you end the front nine.

No. 5 is the first par 3, a 163-yard hole. The wind is a constant hindrance at Leven Links, with No. 5 being no exception. If it's not a factor, a three iron or a wedge should get you on the green. No. 6 is the longest hole on the course, a 569-yard par 5. It's also the only hole over 500 yards. You should aim for the bunker, because the out of bounds attracts balls. You'll finish the front nine off with another par 3, the third of the round so far, a 171 yarder. It's arguably the easiest of the par threes.

No. 11 is a 368-yard par 4. It might go against your instincts, but you're better served by slicing your drive, as the green is guarded by three bunkers that are difficult to get out of. No. 12 and 13 are back-to-back par 5s. You'll want to avoid the burn at the back on No. 12, while the wind is a factor on 13.

The golf course ends with a splash. No. 18 has been called one of the finest finishing holes in golf. The 456-yard par 4 is made harder by the appearance at the front of the green of the Scoonie Burn. Get it on the green in two, and you'll be the envy of many.

Visitors are welcome at Leven Links Monday to Friday after 9:30 a.m., and Saturday and Sunday after 10:30 a.m. Visitors should be members of recognized golf clubs or societies and affiliated to a Golfing Union. Handicap certificates may be requested.

Location: On main Kirkcaldy to St Andrews road. 10 miles east of Kirkcaldy on Leven Promenade.