The New Course is often overlooked in favour of its famous sibling, but many locals and purists argue it’s the better test of golf. Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1895, it’s a more structured layout than the Old Course – narrower fairways, more distinct holes, and fewer shared greens. Accuracy is rewarded here. The undulations are subtler, and the bunkers are placed with more strategic intent than visual intimidation. It begins with a firm handshake – the 1st hole is a demanding par 4 requiring precision. The stretch from holes 6 to 9 is particularly strong, with doglegs and raised greens that call for creative shot-making. The 10th is a brutal par 4 into the prevailing wind. The closing stretch is less famous than the Old, but no less challenging, with deep bunkers guarding greens and wind always in play. It’s a shot-maker’s course, where control and decision-making count. A caddie isn’t essential but highly useful for bunker avoidance and links nuance.