Travelling over Scotland over many weeks, we arrived at the Old Course Hotel as one of the only two five-star hotels on our list of places to stay. We booked an Old Course Suite for two nights, at over 600 pounds per night for bed and breakfast. The suite was attractive at first glance but had many problems - no kleenex, one chair only (not two) at the dining table, no dressing area where you could plug in a hairdryer and use a mirror at the same time (!) and worst of all, a duvet/comforter and pillows filled with polyester, not down. Even fairly middling hotels offer "pillow menus" nowadays.

We had dinner on the first night at the famous Road Hole Grill - most of the staff were European, with strong accents, so although we are Scottish and Canadian, we actually had a language problem! The service at first was too attentive, when the restaurant was quite empty, then as it got busier, it wasn't attentive at all. We had a lovely table overlooking the golf course, but were very disappointed in the food. The chef is trying too hard and we realized (too late) that they actually specialize in steak dinners for hungry golfers in spite of all the fuss about fine dining. Steak and chips would have been the right choice.

One of the two elevators broke down for many hours, which made us nervous about using them, and although we had been given a welcome glass of champagne and hors d'hoeuvre on arrival in our room, we were left with the dirty glasses and plates even after the housekeeping staff had come in to do a "turn down".

If the room rate was under 200 pounds, these complaints would be trivial; as it stands at over 600 pounds (well over $1200) per night, everything should be perfect. This hotel is owned by the Kohler corporation, which is certainly not doing a good job of managing it. The fabulous, historic golf course alone is not enough to excuse their performance, but unfortunately people will come here for that reason alone.

Unfortunately this has spoiled our trip to Scotland and has given us a "ripped off" feeling which is extremely unpleasant.

I booked this holiday as a surprise for my husband's 50th birthday via Scotland For Golf and it turned out to be a very very enjoyable weekend.We booked the 'his and hers' package which included a round with the golf pro ( we were lucky enough to get onto the old course in the ballot).Everything about the trip was wonderful from the organisation of the golf with the pro to the service at the hotel which was first class. The Spa is very good ( especially the rooftop jacuzzi) and the food excellent.Rooms were very clean and nicely decorated and the hotel feels very luxurious. The setting was wonderful and we enjoyed two very good meals, one informal at The Sands hotel restaraunt and one at the Road House Grill ( more formal).All the staff were very friendly and helpful.
Would recommend both Scotland For Golf and the hotel very highly and will definitely be back as soon as possible.

I stayed at this hotel for a short romantic getaway.

I had a mostly pleasant experience at this hotel. The staff were friendly and approachable, the room was nicely decorated with a large comfortable bed and a bathroom with bath. The room had a small balcony which was enjoyable to open at night but we didn't have a view of the golf course, but instead the car park to the rear, which detracted slightly. We did book it as a special offer, but next time I would request a golf course view. The hotel is located a ten minute walk from the centre of St Andrews but is pleasant and scenic. Staying here was a perfect base for a romantic, celebratory trip and it was comfortable enough to feel like a treat. I would stay here again.

Had a wonderful arrival and staff went out of their way to help during our stay. Room was excellent overlooking the course. Afternoon Tea in the library was lovely especially sitting in front of the fire. Restaurant on the top floor was closed for refurbishment so we had dinner in our room.
After the weekend we were fully refreshed and would advise this hotel to anyone.
The hotel is ugly on the outside but that is the only downside. Bonuses include the health club, the deep baths, the peacefulness and the variety of places to eat. A nice breakfast was included in the price.