Major spend across hospitality, heritage, infrastructure and course quality reinforce long-term vision for ‘Golf’s Greatest Test’
Carnoustie Golf Links
Carnoustie Golf Links is in the process of delivering a major programme of investment designed to strengthen its position as one of the world’s premier golf destinations and to ensure that the Open Championship returns to the Fife venue.
Since the iconic venue, which has hosted The Open eight times, was acquired by international investor consortium MIJH Ltd in 2023, a total of £10.3 million has been spent on acquisitions and infrastructure improvements, spanning hospitality, heritage preservation, hotel redevelopment and course improvements.
And there are no plans to stop, as Carnoustie Golf Heritage and Hospitality Group set about delivering a programme worth into the tens of millions, with the ultimate ambition to secure the return of the Open Championship, which was last held here in 2018.
Key to this vision is ensuring the benefits extend beyond Carnoustie’s tees, fairways and greens and radiate outward into the local town and community. To that end, CGL has made targeted acquisitions to strengthen the visitor economy, acquiring established local hospitality venue Maxi’s – formerly Maxibells – for £500,000.
Wide-ranging improvements were made ahead of opening the doors to the public for the first time on May 26, integrating the bar and restaurant into the broader CGL experience.
Ross Blackadder, CGL’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “This is a local institution that matters deeply to people in Carnoustie, and we saw an opportunity to breathe new life into it, support local jobs and create something the community can be proud of. A great deal of work has taken place improving Maxi’s and we look forward to welcoming the community in now the doors have officially opened.”
Alongside these acquisitions, hospitality staffing levels have been significantly strengthened across the hotel and wider service operations – including the appointment of a new Head of Food and Beverage – to enhance visitor experience and support future growth.
CGL has also taken over Simpsons Golf Shop, the world’s second oldest golf shop, on Links Parade. Plans have been submitted to transform the legendary building into a heritage centre dedicated to celebrating Carnoustie’s rich golfing history and the greats to have played the game.
Simpson’s Golf Shop is now under the ownership of Carnoustie Golf Links
Mr Blackadder added: “The Simpson brothers are woven into the DNA of this course. Robert Simpson worked alongside Old Tom Morris on the redesign of Carnoustie Golf Links itself. To bring that building back into the family, so to speak, felt right.
“We are targeting completion in late 2026, early 2027, creating a destination celebrating both the game and the legendary figures who shaped Carnoustie’s story. As a Grade C listed building, we have taken the time to get this right, and the redevelopment will be undertaken carefully and respectfully to preserve its historic character.”
Alongside town and hospitality investment, Carnoustie is making major commitments to course quality and long-term sustainability. Most notably, £2.2m of state-of-the-art John Deere greenkeeping equipment has arrived on site, supporting championship-level course maintenance standards.
Beyond that, widespread irrigation improvements have taken place across the Links as Carnoustie makes good on its commitment to responsible greenkeeping.
CGL has invested in a new fleet of John Deere course machinery
Kevin Stott, CGL’s Links Superintendent, said: “At Carnoustie Golf Links, the team takes great pride in delivering authentic links turf conditions across all three courses, where attention to detail is everything. With high expectations from both season ticket holders and visiting golfers, maintaining outstanding playing surfaces throughout the season is always the priority.
“Investment in the latest John Deere machinery, alongside a brand-new state-of-the-art irrigation system across all three courses gives the team the tools and support needed to keep Carnoustie Golf Links performing at the very highest level. This continued investment is key to delivering future championships and maintaining the test of golf The Championship Course demands from the best golfers in the world.
“It’s all part of a long-term commitment to responsible greenkeeping, ensuring Carnoustie Golf Links continues to offer championship quality conditions in a considered way, while creating a memorable golfing experience for generations to come.”
Following extensive review and specialist advice, Carnoustie is also assessing options for redeveloping, upgrading and extending its existing hotel rather than pursue a new-build development. The decision reflects both the hotel’s iconic position overlooking the Links and a commitment to preserving an important part of Carnoustie’s identity.
Mr Blackadder added: “The building belongs here. A new-build would have replaced something with genuine character. Instead, we’re taking what exists and elevating it to a luxury standard. Various improvement works have already been completed, including upgrades to ground floor bar facilities and the swimming pool and spa areas.
“Future phases will include refurbished guest rooms and further enhancements designed to deliver the quality international visitors expect from a leading global golf destination. The ambition is clear: world-class service, exceptional facilities and a seamless connection between luxury accommodation and championship golf. This represents significant investment and a commitment we are taking seriously. Progress will speak for itself.”
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