Remember the old Golfino shop outside the Old Course Hotel? That changed some years ago into a ‘meet and greet’ for those looking to hold their weddings at the five red star hotel. Now? It has a new lease of life and is named in fond tribute to the man who bought the hotel in 2004 and whose family’s business continues to invest in St Andrews …

Herb’s is a vibrant addition to the hotel’s menu of award-winning dining options and has created what is fast becoming a ‘must visit’ for those who love cafe culture. It is just one of several significant upgrades to the iconic hotel as it enters the 12-month countdown to The Open’s return in 2027.

Open from early morning – 6am seven days a week – Herb’s caters to everyone, not only hotel guests on early departures or arrivals but also golfers heading to the links, and locals who want something different to start their working day.

Wellbeing

And the offering is different. The coffee shop exudes a chilled, European-inspired style and is blessed with free and easy parking – right outside the door. No need to battle through the traffic in town.

The affectionate nod to the late Herb Kohler is not missed on those who know the hotel and its history.

You will find classic coffees, teas, and bakes. The hotels’ team of chefs has created what they call “a wellness focused menu” which includes specialty drinks – from Rose Vanilla Latte and Hojicha Shaken Espresso to what are described as “functional drinks” with Coconut Collagen Latte and Sea Buckthorn Citrus Sparkle. But don’t panic … you can still order your regular Flat Whites, Cappuccinos and more, and the coffee is delicious!

And then there is a menu of freshly-blended smoothies: the Berry & Beetroot or the Green Keeper made with spinach, kale and green apple, a perfect grab-and-go vitamin boost.

Sit in or outside to enjoy their breakfasts and lunches – or use the Herb’s Hatch for the ease of takeaway options. The choices are many – from Fresh Pastries and Chia Seed Pudding or Bircher Muesli Vitality Cups to a selection of sandwiches and super-fresh salad bowls that use seasonal, Scottish produce and locally sourced ingredients.

Enhancements

The new coffee shop is one in a series of enhancements at the hotel – a newly redesigned lobby (below) created in collaboration with Richmond International is at the very heart of the destination.

Just off the lobby is a new retail outlet – The Emporium. The new boutique offers a unique collection – keepsakes as souvenirs of a stay or perfect gifts for loved ones whilst visiting.

Go Pro

For golfers – visiting and local – the hotel’s Pro Shop has also reopened following a refurbishment. Premium golfing apparel and equipment is available from brands including Glenmuir, Kjus, Malbon and Peter Millar among others. Both the Pro Shop and The Emporium have been designed in collaboration with leading architectural practice, Unwin Jones Partnership.

Outstanding views …

A selection of bedrooms have also “undergone a refresh” and the hotel’s suites – including the Penthouse (below) and signature Royal & Ancient – have undergone complete refurbishment.

Countdown …

All golf lovers know The Open returns to St Andrews in July 2027. The continued investment in the Old Course Hotel is testament to the owners’ commitment to support and promote the Home of Golf.

Phyllis Wilkie, Old Course Hotel general manager, says: “This season marks an important moment as we unveil new and refreshed spaces that elevate the guest journey from the moment of arrival. From the redesigned lobby to The Emporium and our new Pro Shop, each space has been thoughtfully crafted to enhance comfort, style and experience.”

She adds: “The addition of Herb’s is particularly exciting, bringing a more relaxed, community-focused dimension to the hotel and creating a coffee shop space that feels as welcoming to locals as it is to our guests. Our new spaces, combined with an exciting programme of events for 2026, form part of an ongoing commitment to consistently elevate our guests’ experience while keeping the same features that make a visit to Old Course Hotel so special.”

 

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