Standing proudly between the 1st and 18th fairways of the Old Course at St Andrews. The Swilcan Bridge is one of the most recognised landmarks in golf, which you cross as you play the famous 18th hole on the Old Course. This ancient stone arch holds deep significance for golfers worldwide. Serving as a symbol of golf's heritage and its connection to St Andrews, the Home of Golf.
When you consider the sheer scale of some of the world's most famous bridges. The modest size of the Swilcan Bridge stands in stark contrast, measuring just 30 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 6 feet tall.
Originally built over 700 years ago, the Swilcan Bridge is said to have been built to help shepherds move their livestock across the Swilcan Burn. A small stream that winds across the 18th and 1st fairways. Long before golf ever arrived, the bridge served the local farming community, a reminder that this sacred patch of land once had a very different purpose.
With the historic skyline of the 'Auld Grey Toun' of St Andrews behind it and the famous Royal & Ancient Clubhouse and Hamilton Grand. The Swilcan Bridge creates one of the most iconic photo opportunities in sport. For professional golfers, crossing the bridge during The Open Championship has become a symbolic moment. A quiet pause, a wave to the crowd, and a step into golfing history as they make their way up the 18th hole.
Photographed in the opposite direction, the Swilcan Bridge has the famous Old Course Hotel as its backdrop. The small white building just before it being the Jigger Inn. (No trip to St Andrews is complete without a visit to the Jigger.) With views over the famous 17th hole, the "Road Hole."
From Jack Nicklaus' farewell in 2005 to Tom Watson's emotional final crossing in 2015. Tom Watson concluded his Open Championship journey as darkness descended over St Andrews. The bridge has played host to the greatest names in the game. No one more iconic than Tiger Woods, who lifted the Claret Jug at St Andrews in 2000 and 2005.
The Swilcan Bridge has become a stage in its own right, where silence, pride, and tradition take centre stage. The Old Course closes on Sundays, except during tournament weeks. Allowing you the chance to have your moment on the Swilcan Bridge.
In 2023, a stone platform was controversially installed at the approach to the bridge to combat damage caused by the large volume of foot traffic. The modification was met with widespread criticism and was quickly removed, restoring it to its former glory. Highlighting the importance of this iconic landmark.
