OLD COURSE HOTEL FOURTH FLOOR TRANSFORMATION EMERGES WITH INCREDIBLE CULINARY VISION
St Andrews, Scotland – 30th April 2025 – The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa announces the grand opening of its newly refreshed fourth floor. Perched above one of golf's most iconic landscapes, the space has undergone a stunning renovation over the last few months. A stylish redesign has transformed the iconic Road Hole Restaurant into the ultimate destination for relaxed fine dining, while chic, comfortable interiors bring new life to the Road Hole Bar. This renovation, led by acclaimed design firm Richmond International, has been a work of passion for the Old Course Hotel, a hotel that takes pride in its traditional Scottish hospitality and heritage.
The Road Hole Restaurant overlooks its namesake – the Old Course's legendary 17th hole – the new look draws inspiration from its breathtaking coastal surroundings, with a natural palette of earthy greens, rich burgundies, warm sandy tones, and delicate touches of sky blue.
"This renovation embodies our ethos of always evolving while remaining true to our roots," says Old Course Hotel's General Manager Phyllis Wilkie. "Our guests can savour both the landscape and cuisine that makes Scotland truly special and revel in the elevated, comfortable spaces that nod to our home in St Andrews, and give a true sense of place."
The restaurant features elegant, relaxed fine dining with a vibrant open kitchen providing a sense of theatre. Guests can watch as talented chefs flame-grill seafood and finish plates with artistic flair, transforming the finest local produce into signature offerings including St Andrews Bay lobster ravioli, perfectly cooked Fife lamb, and a French-inspired Vacherin dessert featuring East Neuk strawberries from nearby Blacketyside farm.
"We are very fortunate that our location on the coast of Fife puts us in the best spot to source some of the finest produce not just in Scotland, but the world," notes Mario Rodrigues, Director of Food and Beverage.
The transformation extends to the beloved Road Hole Bar, which becomes the hotel's social heart. By day, guests enjoy aromatic coffees and satisfying light fare, and as twilight descends, the space transforms into a sophisticated sanctuary for evening chatter and fine tipples. Whisky enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise exploring more than 300 varieties from distilleries in Scotland and around the world – from the peaty expressions of Islay to the honeyed notes of Speyside and beyond.
The Boardroom has seen a complete interior design refresh. The space features a beautiful cream woven wallpaper creating a soothing atmosphere, complemented by artwork depicting dreamlike Scottish landscapes and reimagined floral forms chosen to foster a connection between guests and their surroundings.
Boasting what may be one of the most spectacular views from any boardroom in Scotland, this versatile space serves both corporate meetings and private dining experiences, where guests can enjoy exceptional cuisine while taking in the breathtaking panorama. At the heart of the new Boardroom sits the original boardroom table, expertly reconditioned by Ayrshire-based Thomas Johnstone Ltd—a company founded in 1868 that has restored several original features on the fourth floor.
The renovation further celebrates heritage craftsmanship, with Thomas Johnstone Ltd breathing new life into the much-cherished piano, which had seen some sun damage over the years sitting beside the floor-to-ceiling windows.
The fourth floor launch also heralds the reopening of Swilcan Loft following a soft refurbishment. This contemporary seafood bar and chophouse offers an elevated take on surf and turf, utilising the best shellfish Scotland has to offer alongside prized cuts of beef and lamb from local farms. Additionally, The Deck at Road Hole Bar opens for the summer season as the dreamiest spot for outdoor lounging. Snuggle up in intimate pods and cosy blankets under the twinkling lights, with a sweeping view over the vistas of West Sands Beach, the Old Course, and St Andrews, creating the perfect setting for memorable gatherings and sundowners with a drink in hand.
"We're not just renovating a space," adds Wilkie, "we're creating living narratives that connect our guests to the soul of Scottish heritage while delivering truly indulgent good times."
The refurbishment brings together some of Scotland's most prestigious manufacturers. Johnstons of Elgin, established in 1797, provides luxurious fabrics for banquettes, dining chairs, and cushions, with designs inspired by the local landscape.
The custom contemporary tartan carpet, commissioned in honour of the late Herb Kohler Jr – who purchased the hotel in 2004, and always had a desire for tartan to be included in the interiors – was crafted by family-owned Ulster Carpets, the same company selected to create carpets for the King's Coronation.
The newly transformed fourth floor welcomes guests starting 30th April 2025.
For more information about Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, please visit https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/
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For further information, please contact Mercury Communications: oldcoursehotel@mercurycomms.com
About Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, St Andrews
Owned by Kohler Co, Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa St Andrews is a luxury five-star property, with 175 bedrooms including 34 suites, offering breath-taking views of the Fife coastline. St Andrews is renowned for golf worldwide, the hotel is set on Championship 18-hole golf course - The Old Course, which is the oldest course in the world. The Old Course Hotel also offers guests access to the Kohler championship Duke’s Course, the only Scottish Heathland venue in the ‘Home of Golf’.
The luxury resort also features Kohler Waters Spa and fitness centre, eight restaurants and bars, as well as wedding and events spaces. Following a multi-million renovation in 2018, Kohler Waters Spa has extended to 2,300 sq m and features 13 treatment rooms, a 20m pool, a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and plunge pool, as well as a gym and fitness centre. The spa is currently undergoing further refurbishment and will be revealed later in 2025. The hotel is also situated next to neighbouring Hamilton Grand, which comprises of 27 private residences and apartments, managed by Old Course Hotel. For further information visit: https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/
Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection, the ultimate portfolio of exceptional properties in the world’s most remarkable destinations. Globally sophisticated and culturally refined, the singular properties within this collection feature exquisite accommodations, stellar and intuitive personal service, renowned dining, and exceptional spas, setting the stage for the most unforgettable experiences. All guests of Old Course Hotel are eligible to enrol in the I Prefer Hotel Rewards program, which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary Internet to members upon every stay at more than 650 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide.
Address: Old Station Rd, St Andrews KY16 9S
