St Andrews is now such a mecca for golfers from around the world, that it unsurprisingly has a vast selection of official and independently owned pro-shops and golf merchandise stores. I like to consider it a golfing theme park, but in a classy, refined manner - if that makes sense...
The Links Trust (who manage all seven of the links at St Andrews) have numerous golf shops. Their flagship outlet is now situated directly to the right of the 18th green. It's an enormous store that sells countless varieties of golf shirts, hats, umbrellas, bag tags, outerwear and even tea cups - all crested with that all important Links Trust logo.With top of the line brands ranging from Burberry to Ralph Lauren, this is the place to pick up your high-end designer clobber. It doesn't come cheap though. Expect to pay around £70 ($110 US) for a premium golf shirt or £20 ($30 US) for a cap.
Perhaps the most famous golf shop in town is Auchterlonies, which sits proudly on the corner opposite the Dunvegan pub, around a hundred yards from the final green. They have been making hand-crafted wooden clubs since the firm's inception in 1895. Of course now they also offer the latest in equipment in addition to a wide range of clothing and accessories. What I like most about Auchterlonies is their honest approach and pricing. With their prime location and rich heritage, they could almost be forgiven for charging the earth - but they don't. The clubs are priced at recommended retail price, or even less in some cases, and their high quality golf shirts range from around £25 - £60. They also ensure they are at the fore-front of innovation, having the latest putters and drivers the very week they are released.
There used to be two excellent, independently owned pro-shops further into town, but since Jim Farmer left the trade to assume his position as Honorary Professional at the R&A, I have only tended to use 'The Pro Shop' on Ellice Place. This is a great little shop, owned by local scratch golfer Andrew Donaldson. Here, you can trade in your old equipment, or even pick up a quick sleeve of Pro V1's on your way to the course.
Last year witnessed the first branch of a major chain to arrive in St Andrews when Nevada Bob's opened it's doors on Market Street. Yes, they may sell 2-piece golf balls at a heavily discounted price by the barrel-load, but shopping here is a little like going to the Big Apple and buying a I♥NY tee-shirt that was made in Taiwan.
For the real experience, support the local businesses and you will be sure to leave St Andrews with your own little piece of history.
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