Anstruther Golf Club

Anstruther Golf Club was established in 1890, with its first course opening on April 8, 1891, as a 7-hole layout near the seashore at Billowness, Anstruther Wester. Within two years, the course expanded to 9 holes, and in 1896 legendary course designer Old Tom Morris recommended acquiring additional land to enhance the course's appeal and draw more players to the area.

The original clubhouse was a small stone building located on what is now part of the golf course, and tea was served to six people at a time due to space constraints. In 1922, the clubhouse was relocated to the Marsfield building, starting a tradition of expansions and renovations, with significant changes to the clubhouse configuration completed in 1984.

While neighboring courses expanded to 18 holes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Anstruther Golf Club considered but ultimately did not proceed with an 18-hole expansion, remaining a 9-hole course with various plans put forward over the years. The most formal 18-hole proposal was submitted in 1910 by architect C. F. Anderson, but it was not supported financially and thus never realized.

During both World War I and World War II, the golf course faced financial challenges and physical changes, such as trenches and poles installed during the latter conflict to prevent enemy aircraft landings. The course was closed for play in September 1940 but reopened in April 1946 after the removal of war-era obstacles, and has faced financial and membership challenges throughout its history.

Since 1916, the golf course has seen few modifications other than alterations in the sequences of holes after the clubhouse was moved. Notable changes since then include a major repositioning of the first green in 1961 and the reshaping and lengthening of the 8th hole in 2008, which increased the overall safety and playability of the course.

The survival of Anstruther Golf Club has been attributed to the dedication and volunteer work of its members, particularly during challenging times when the club's existence was at stake. Members have actively participated in various construction projects and course improvements throughout the club's history, significantly shaping the club's current state.

The course is situated along the shoreline with stunning views and features a challenging sequence of par 3’s known as Anstruther Golf Club's version of Amen corner, including the hole known as The Rockies. The Rockies was voted the toughest par 3 in the UK by Today's Golfer in September 2007 and remains a significant test for all golfers visiting the course.