First look at Carnoustie's new golf heritage centre
Plans to turn a landmark building and the world’s second oldest golf shop into a heritage centre have been revealed by Carnoustie Golf Links.
Simpson’s Golf Shop on Links Parade was acquired last year with the aim of integrating the historic building into the town’s wider visitor experience.
In partnership with architectural firm Studioarc, work is now underway to transform the Grade C listed premises, which dates back to the 19th century, into a new heritage centre celebrating the famous Links’ unrivalled place in golfing history.
Work due to be completed by the end of this year.
Newly released artist impressions offer the first glimpse of how Simpson’s will look following its restoration, featuring interactive installations, screens showing archive video footage and a roaring fireplace where visitors can enjoy a dram.
Ross Blackadder, Carnoustie Golf Links’ chief operating officer, said: “Simpson’s is far more than an old shop; it’s one of Carnoustie’s most important buildings and a landmark in the history of golf. It deserves to be protected, enhanced and celebrated and that’s exactly why we acquired it.
“We saw an opportunity not only to preserve an iconic part of Carnoustie’s heritage, but to create something that gives visitors a deeper appreciation of the people and stories that have made this place so special.
“As a listed building, every decision has been made carefully and respectfully to retain its historic character while ensuring it has a sustainable future. We are creating a heritage centre worthy of Robert Simpson.”
Part of the shop will continue to be used for retail, allowing visitors to buy merchandise.
Lyndsey Bowditch, director of Studioarc, said: “Our approach has been to retain and restore the character and fabric of this historic building, while introducing carefully considered contemporary elements that will bring the remarkable story of Robert Simpson and his workshop to life.
“Robert was an innovative clubmaker, golfer and businessman, and this unique building was a working place where generations of craftsmen-made hickory golf clubs that were sent to golfers across Britain and around the world. We want visitors to feel a real connection to that story – to the tools, materials, skills and craftsmanship that defined Simpson’s – rather than simply creating a modern visitor attraction within an old building.”
The redevelopment forms part of a wider programme of investments being made by Carnoustie Golf Heritage and Hospitality Group (CGGH), which acquired the Link’s in 2023. So far more than £10 million has been spent on acquisitions and infrastructure improvements
Established in 1883, Simpson’s is an integral part of Carnoustie’s history and has been associated with generations of clubmakers, professionals and golfers.
It was acquired by Robert Simpson in the early 19th century, who changed its name from Charles Brand Clubmakers.
One of the six Simpson brothers who helped to shape the modern game of golf, Robert also worked alongside legendary golfer and course designer Old Tom Morris on the restructure of Carnoustie Golf Links. Widely regarded as one of the greatest clubmakers of all time, he died in the town in 1923 aged 61.