The R&A has reopened the World Golf Museum in St Andrews to visitors following an extensive redevelopment.
Beginning as a cabinet of curiosities in the 1800s, and known as the British Golf Museum for the past 30 years, the museum has been renamed the R&A World Golf Museum.
Closed since early 2020, the museum’s galleries have been redisplayed and re-interpreted, ready to welcome visitors to explore the rich history of golf through a new range of immersive and interactive displays.
Phil Anderton, Chief Development Officer at The R&A, commented: “Golf is synonymous with St Andrews – it was first played here in the 1500’s and The Old Course is the first 18-hole course in the world, so it is fitting that The R&A World Golf Museum resides just steps from its first tee. Golf is rich in tradition which has been built through centuries of enjoyment. It is these traditions and the evolution of the game which are explored in the galleries of The R&A World Golf Museum. Through the interactive galleries we hope to engage with current and new fans to deepen their knowledge and connection to golf.”
The story of golf is presented through six new thematic zones, each designed to engage and entertain through experiential and video displays.
The museum will also feature an exhibition celebrating the life of Severiano Ballesteros. Seve – His Life Through the Lens – will run for 18 months, including throughout The 150th Open in St Andrews, and visitors will enjoy a unique collection dedicated to his greatest achievements in golf, including winning The Open on three occasions in 1979, 1984 and 1988.
Angela Howe, Director – Museum & Heritage at The R&A said, “Our goal when developing The R&A World Golf Museum was to re-imagine the golf heritage experience; making it appealing to established golf fans whilst attracting and educating those new to the sport. The refurbishment of the galleries provides a modern back drop for people to learn about golf’s heritage via immersive, interactive and interesting exhibits. We are looking forward to opening on the 21 June and welcoming guests to enjoy all that The R&A World Golf Museum has to offer.’’
In addition to the galleries The R&A World Golf Museum also offers a retail shop and a café which overlooks the famed West Sands Beach.
Entry into the Museum is £12 for adults, £10 for concessions, £6 for children and free for children under the age of four.For more information, visit www.worldgolfmuseum.com.