St Andrews Ladies' Putting Club

It is better known as The Himalayas, which as anyone who has experienced it knows, is a very apt description of this riotous facility that sits between the Old Course and West Sands in St Andrews.

It was founded in 1867 as a venue for ladies, who were enjoying tackling the putting course the Old Course caddies had set-up but which was causing friction between the sexes (this was the 1800s at least...)

The ground that was commandeered was rough, covered in gorse that was used to dry clothes and full of rabbit holes - but a nine-hole course was laid out by Old Tom Morris that "required a cleek and a putter".

More ground was later acquired to the north and as the surface became more smooth only putters were used.

It became so popular that in 1900 there were 400 lady members and 200 'Gentlemen Associate' members.

These days there are now half as many lady members but it is more popular than ever with visitors. 'The Himalayas' are open to the public daily from April to September (and in March and October, weather permitting), with all standards of putters welcome - from age three upwards. Equipment hire is included in the green fee of £3 (adult), £1 (child under 12) and £1 (senior).

So what do you get for £3? The most entertainment you can imagine with one club in your hand, and really all you need to know is that its nickname is entirely accurate.

It is one of the seminal experiences on every discerning golfers' pilgrimage to St Andrews. And just to be clear, it is not easy!