8. Carnoustie Championship – Top 100 UK and Ireland golf courses 2012

Architect: Allan Robertson, extended to 18 by Old Tom Morris Stats: 6,695 yds, par 70, SSS 74 GF: £140 Visitor information: Open seven days a week but recommended to book in advance either through the reservations department or online W: carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk 2010 Ranking: 7 (down 1) Improvements since 2010 Rankings: Course: None

Panellists' Comments: "Historic working-class links played through slightly inland medium scale sandy terrain"; "A treat for all genuine golf fans offering an opportunity to retrace the footprints of the great Open champions of the past"; "Carnoustie is an absolutely magnificent golf course and provides the ultimate test of skill and nerve with undoubtedly the toughest finish in the British Isles"; "Playing Carnoustie is like fighting a 12-round bout with a bear."

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