Golf fans around the world will once again turn their attention to Scotland when The Open returns to the Old Course at St Andrews in 2027.
As the birthplace of golf and one of the most iconic sporting venues on the planet, St Andrews always attracts huge interest whenever The Open comes to town. Tickets, hospitality packages, accommodation, and travel plans are already becoming a hot topic among golf enthusiasts eager to secure their place at the 155th Open Championship.
But while the spotlight will shine firmly on St Andrews, savvy visitors may want to look just a little further north when deciding where to base themselves.
Enter Dundee.
Close to the Action Without the Premium Price Tag
Located less than 30 minutes from St Andrews, Dundee offers a practical and often more affordable alternative for visitors attending The Open.
Accommodation demand in St Andrews is expected to be exceptionally high, as it is every time the Championship returns to the Home of Golf. Hotel prices can rise significantly, availability becomes limited, and many visitors find themselves looking further afield for options.
Dundee provides the perfect balance.
Visitors can enjoy a wider choice of hotels, serviced apartments, guest houses, and city-centre accommodation while remaining within easy reach of the tournament.
For many golf fans, it simply makes sense.
More Than Just a Place to Sleep
One of Dundee’s biggest advantages is that it offers far more than a convenient base.
After a day walking the fairways of the Old Course, visitors can return to a city packed with excellent restaurants, lively bars, cultural attractions, and a growing food and drink scene.
The city’s waterfront has transformed dramatically in recent years, becoming one of Scotland’s most attractive urban destinations. Visitors can stroll alongside the River Tay, explore the V&A Dundee, enjoy a meal overlooking the waterfront, or simply relax with a drink while discussing the day’s play.
Golf may be the reason for the trip, but Dundee gives visitors plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
A Food and Drink Scene Worth Exploring
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, traditional Scottish hospitality, or somewhere to enjoy a post-round pint, Dundee has options to suit every taste.
Independent restaurants sit alongside popular national brands, while the city centre and waterfront continue to attract new hospitality businesses.
From fresh seafood and Scottish steaks to international cuisine and craft beer venues, visitors attending The Open will find plenty of choice once the final putt has dropped for the day.
And unlike some major sporting destinations, you’re unlikely to spend half the evening standing in a queue.
Easy Connections Throughout the Championship
Getting between Dundee and St Andrews is straightforward.
Regular bus services operate between the two locations, while taxis and private transfers are readily available. Dundee’s rail connections also make it an ideal base for visitors travelling from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and beyond.
For international visitors arriving via Edinburgh Airport, Dundee provides an accessible and convenient location from which to explore not only The Open but the wider east coast of Scotland.
Make a Scottish Golf Trip of It
One of the advantages of staying in Dundee is access to an incredible collection of golf courses beyond St Andrews itself.
Carnoustie, often regarded as one of the world’s greatest championship courses, is only a short drive away. Monifieth, Panmure, Downfield, and numerous other highly regarded venues are all within easy reach.
For golf enthusiasts planning a longer trip, Dundee offers the opportunity to experience multiple world-class courses while keeping accommodation and travel logistics relatively simple.
Experience Scotland Beyond the Fairways
The Open may be the headline act, but visitors staying in Dundee will also find themselves perfectly positioned to explore Angus, Perthshire, Fife, and the wider east coast.
From historic castles and coastal villages to countryside walks and cultural attractions, there’s plenty to see between tournament days.
It’s one of the reasons many visitors discover that a golfing trip quickly becomes a Scottish holiday.
Looking Ahead to 2027
With hospitality packages now on sale and demand expected to be extremely strong, planning ahead for The Open at St Andrews is already becoming a priority for many golf fans.
Those looking for a convenient, welcoming, and often more affordable base would do well to put Dundee firmly on their shortlist.
Because while the world’s greatest golfers battle it out in St Andrews, one of Scotland’s most exciting cities could be waiting just up the road.
