Golf is played on many types of courses, but one of the oldest and most respected styles is links golf. If you have ever wondered what is links style golf, you are not alone. This term is often used in golf discussions, especially during major tournaments like The Open Championship. However, many beginners and even casual players are not fully clear on what it really means.

You will learn the meaning, history, design, features, playing style, and why links golf is so special. By the end, you will have a clear and complete understanding of what is links style golf and how it differs from other types of golf courses.

What Is Links Style Golf?

To answer the question what is links style golf, we need to go back to the basics.

Links style golf refers to golf played on a special type of course called a links course. These courses are usually built on coastal land, often between the sea and farmland. The word “links” comes from an old English word meaning “rising ground” or “ridge.”

So, what is a links style golf course in simple terms? It is a golf course located near the coast, built on sandy soil, with natural terrain, strong winds, and very few trees.

Unlike modern golf courses, links courses use the natural land as much as possible. They are not heavily shaped or decorated. Instead, they follow the natural curves of the land.

The History of Links Golf

To fully understand what is links style golf, we must look at its origins.

Golf began in Scotland over 500 years ago. The first golf courses were built on coastal land where farming was difficult. This land was sandy, uneven, and covered with grass and dunes. People started playing golf there because it was not useful for crops.

These early courses became known as links courses. Famous examples include St Andrews, which is often called the “home of golf.”

Over time, golf spread around the world. However, many modern courses were built inland and designed differently. Even so, links golf remains the purest and most traditional form of the game.

Key Features of a Links Style Golf Course

If you are asking what is links style golf course, it helps to know its main features. These features make links courses unique and challenging.

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Coastal Location

Most links courses are near the ocean. This location brings strong winds, which play a big role in the game. Wind can change the direction and distance of the ball.

Sandy Soil

Links courses are built on sandy ground. This helps with drainage, so the course stays firm and dry even after rain.

Natural Terrain

The land is not heavily changed. Hills, dunes, and uneven ground are left as they are. This creates a natural and sometimes unpredictable playing surface.

Few Trees

Unlike parkland courses, links courses have very few trees. This means there is little protection from the wind.

Firm Fairways

The grass is short and the ground is hard. This allows the ball to roll a long distance after landing.

Deep Bunkers

Bunkers on links courses are often deep and steep. They are designed to be challenging and sometimes difficult to escape.

What Is Link Style Golf Course Compared to Other Types

To better understand what is link style golf course, let’s compare it with other common types of courses.

Links vs Parkland Courses

Parkland courses are usually inland and surrounded by trees. They have softer ground and more water features. Shots are often played through the air.

Links courses, on the other hand, are open, windy, and firm. Players often use the ground to control the ball.

Links vs Desert Courses

Desert courses are built in dry areas with sand and rocks. They are often man-made with added grass and water systems.

Links courses are natural and require very little artificial design.

How Links Golf Is Played

Understanding what is links style golf also means knowing how it is played differently.

Low Shots Are Important

Because of strong winds, players often hit low shots to keep the ball under control. High shots can be easily affected by wind.

Ground Play Matters

On links courses, the ball rolls a lot. Players use this to their advantage by planning where the ball will land and roll.

Creativity Is Key

Every hole can be played in different ways. Players must think carefully and adapt to changing conditions.

Weather Plays a Big Role

Weather can change quickly near the coast. Wind, rain, and even sunlight can affect the game.

Why Links Style Golf Is Challenging

If you are still asking what is a link style golf course and why it is so special, the challenge is a big reason.

Unpredictable Wind

Wind can change direction and strength at any time. This makes club selection and shot planning more difficult.

Uneven Lies

The natural terrain means the ball may not sit flat. Players must adjust their stance and swing.

Fast and Firm Greens

Greens on links courses are usually faster and harder. This makes putting more challenging.

Famous Links Golf Courses

To understand what is links style golf course, it helps to look at famous examples.

St Andrews (Scotland)

Known as the home of golf, this is one of the oldest and most famous links courses in the world.

Royal Birkdale (England)

A regular host of The Open Championship, known for its fair but challenging layout.

Pebble Beach (USA)

While not a pure links course, it has many links-like features and is located on the coast.

What Is a Links Style Golf Course in the USA

In the United States, true links courses are rare because of geography. However, some courses are designed to look and play like links courses. These are often called “links-style” courses.

So when asking what is a links style golf course in the US, it usually means a course designed to copy the features of traditional Scottish links courses.

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Examples include:

• Wide fairways
• Few trees
• Wind exposure
• Firm playing conditions

Equipment and Strategy for Links Golf

If you plan to play links golf, you need the right approach.

Club Selection

Players often use longer clubs for low shots. A 3-iron or hybrid can be useful.

Shot Control

Control is more important than power. Keeping the ball low helps manage the wind.

Course Management

Planning each shot carefully is key. You must think about where the ball will roll after landing.

Common Misunderstandings About Links Golf

Many people misunderstand what is links style golf.

Not All Coastal Courses Are Links

Just being near the ocean does not make a course a true links course. It must have sandy soil and natural terrain.

Links Does Not Mean Easy

Some think links courses are easier because they are open. In reality, they can be more challenging due to wind and terrain.

Why Links Golf Is Loved by Players

Despite its difficulty, links golf is highly respected.

Tradition

It connects players to the origins of the game.

Skill Development

It tests creativity, control, and strategy.

Natural Beauty

The coastal scenery and natural landscape make it a unique experience.

Modern Trends in Links Style Golf

Today, many new courses are inspired by links design. Even inland courses try to copy the look and feel.

Designers focus on:

• Natural shapes
• Minimal water use
• Sustainable design

This shows that links golf is still important in modern golf.

How to Know If You Are Playing a Links Course

If you are unsure what is a links style golf course, look for these signs:

• Near the coast
• Sandy soil
• Strong wind
• Few trees
• Rolling terrain

If most of these are present, you are likely playing a links-style course.

Tips for Beginners Playing Links Golf

If you are new to links golf, here are simple tips:

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• Keep your shots low
• Use the ground to your advantage
• Watch the wind carefully
• Stay patient and flexible

Conclusion

So, what is links style golf? It is the oldest and most traditional form of golf, played on natural coastal land with wind, sand, and rolling terrain. It focuses on skill, creativity, and strategy rather than power.

Understanding what is links style golf course helps you appreciate the game more deeply. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, playing on a links course offers a unique and memorable experience.

FAQs About What Is Links Style Golf

What is the main difference between links and regular golf courses?

Links courses are natural, coastal, and windy, while regular courses are often inland with trees and softer ground.

Why is it called links golf?

The name comes from an old English word meaning rising ground or coastal dunes.

Are links courses harder to play?

Yes, because of wind, firm ground, and uneven terrain.

Can beginners play links golf?

Yes, but it may be more challenging. It is a great way to improve skills.

What is a links style golf course in simple words?

It is a golf course near the sea with natural land, few trees, and strong winds.

Do links courses have water hazards?

They usually have fewer water hazards than other courses.

Why are there no trees on links courses?

The sandy soil and coastal winds make it difficult for trees to grow.

Is The Open Championship played on links courses?

Yes, it is always played on traditional links courses.