THE BEST GOLF TRIPS IN SCOTLAND
Ultimate Golf Trip
This is the ultimate golf trip of Scotland – hitting all the courses that have held the Open and the ‘big names’ in the Home of Golf.
Muirfield
Muirfield - https://www.muirfield.org.uk/ - Known as the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and situated 35 minutes from Edinburgh it has held 16 Open and 11 Amateur Championships; the Ryder, Walker and Curtis Cups and the AIG Women’s Open Championship in 2022.
Locals Tip: Play it like the members – Fourballs in the morning, an incredible lunch in the clubhouse followed by afternoon foursomes (alternate shot).
Green Fees £325 or £495 for two rounds on the day (including lunch) – Tuesdays and Thursdays only.
Want to book? https://www.muirfield.org.uk/visitors-new/
St Andrews: Old Course - https://standrews.com/golf/courses/old-course - The oldest and most prestigious golf course in the world, situated in the town of St Andrews, Fife. The course has held the Open Championship a total of 30 times, along with hosting the Women's British Open and the Senior Open Championship. Tee times are in extremely high demand and the application window for 2023 is now closed but through entering a ballot for tee times there is still a chance of receiving a tee time.
Locals Tip: The other courses around St Andrews are incredible – the New and Jubilee follow very similar routing and sit adjacent to the Old Course. The Dunvegan pub is one of the best known locally for a post game drink – roughly a pitching wedge from the 18th green, something like this - (162) Hitting an ILLEGAL Shot at the MOST FAMOUS Golf Course in the World! - YouTube
Green Fees range are £295 from 17th April 2023 - 15th October 2023 and £210 in 16th October 2023 - 31st October 2023.
Want to book? Book Online Landing - St Andrews Links : The Home of Golf
St Andrews:
Old Course
Troon: Old
Troon: Old - https://www.royaltroon.co.uk/visit/ - Royal Troon is situated in Troon, South Ayrshire, which is southwest of Glasgow. The club, founded in 1878, has hosted the Open Championship 9 times and will host its 10th in 2024, along with hosting tournaments such as the Amateur Championship, the Senior Open Championship and the Women's British Open. With iconic holes such as the 11th hole, the par 3 ‘The Railway’ is often regarded as one of the toughest holes in golf.
Locals Tip: The postage stamp 8th is a great hole, measuring 123 yards you would think it would be straightforward – Enjoy!
Green Fees for Troon are £315 per golfer.
Want to book? Online tee booking - Royal Troon Golf Club
Turnberry - https://www.turnberrygolfclub.net/ - Turnberry, situated in South Ayrshire, is known for the spectacular scenery of places like the islands of Arran and Ailsa Craig, the Mull of Kintyre and even over to Ireland on a clear day. Hosting the Open Championship 4 times (most recently when Tom Watson narrowly missed out on victory), along with the Senior Championship and the Women’s British Open, the Ailsa Course is amidst the ruins of Turnberry castle where the legend has it that King of Scotland, Robert the Bruce, was born in 1274. The lighthouse and the ruins of the castle are a signature symbol of Turnberry that is recognised by golfers worldwide. The course was extensively remodelled a few years ago and the changes are spectacular.
Locals Tip: The halfway hut (a lighthouse) is spectacular – make sure you take the time to enjoy it.
Green Fees for the Ailsa course are £275 per person.
Want to book? Tee Times - Trump Turnberry
Turnberry
Carnoustie:
Championship
Carnoustie: Championship - https://www.carnoustiegolflinks.com/ - Carnoustie Golf Links, is situated in Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland. The Championship course is world renowned and has hosted the Open Championship on eight occasions along with the Women’s British Open and the Senior Open Championship. After being designed and established 180 years ago by Allan Robertson, assisted by Old Tom Morris, it is often rated highly amongst golf courses in the UK and widely regarded as the toughest course on the Open rota.
Locals Tip: The halfway hut (a lighthouse) is spectacular – make sure you take the time to enjoy it.
Green Fees for the Championship Course between 25th March - 30th April is £192, between 1st May - 16th October is £270, 17th October - 31st October is £192.
Want to book? Booking (carnoustiegolflinks.com)
Prestwick - https://www.prestwickgc.co.uk/ - Prestwick Golf Club, situated in Prestwick, South Ayrshire, was where the Open Championship Tournament originated. The Open Championship was played at Prestwick Golf Club 24 times. Old Tom Morris designed and built the original golf course at Prestwick, although golf had been played on the land for years previous to the establishment of Prestwick Golf Club. The iconic course is beside Prestwick Airport and has numerous holes that run alongside the railway tracks on the eastern side of the course.
Locals Tip: Brutal opening tee shot if you are not warmed up – a train line (out of bounds) runs along the right hand side of the 1st.
Green Fees for the course between May - September is £220 on weekdays and £250 on weekends, in April and October it is £180 on weekdays and £230 on weekends.
Want to book? Bookings | Prestwick Golf Club (prestwickgc.co.uk)
Prestwick
Ultimate Golf Trip (Courses not on The Open rota)
Kingsbarns
Kingsbarns - https://www.kingsbarns.com/ - Kingsbarns, located near St Andrews, Fife, is commonly ranked in Top 100 golf courses in the world. This scenic course has hosted tournaments such as the Women’s Open Championship, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship (along with Carnoustie and St Andrews) and the Open Championship Qualifying. Kingsbarns was originally opened in 1793, although after being redesigned and re-established a number of times and is now the only Scottish course to be built on links land in the last 70 years.
Locals Tip: A 5 minute walk from the clubhouse (2 mins from the 2nd tee) is the famous Cheesy Toast snack – a local institution that is well worth a visit - The Cheesy Toast Shack - Home | Facebook – the macaroni toastie (yes, toast with macaroni cheese in it) is amazing.
Green Fees from 27 March 2023 - 30 April 2023 is £315 and between 1 May 2023 - 13 November 2023 are £374.
Want to book? Booking Enquiries - Kingsbarns Golf Links
Royal Dornoch: Championship - https://royaldornoch.com/ - Royal Dornoch, is situated in Dornoch, Sutherland, Scotland. The club has two 18 hole golf courses, the Championship course and the Struie course. The Championship course is located on the Dornoch firth. The club was established 145 years ago, the Championship course was designed by Old Tom Morris. Although never hosting a modern professional tournament the Championship course is often considered the ‘King of Scottish Links Courses’. If this course was closer to central Scotland it would be the Open Rota, a truly amazing experience and links golf as it should be played. Don’t be put off by it’s location, you will regret not making the trip to Dornoch.
Locals Tip: Tie in a trip to Dornoch with a stop off at one of the local distilleries - Ten things to DO in Dornoch: Whisky - Dornoch (visitdornoch.com)
Green Fees for the Championship Course is £210 for a single round and £335 for 2 rounds.
Want to book? Teetimes - Royal Dornoch Championship Links Course
Royal Dornoch: Championship
Castle Stuart
Castle Stuart - https://cabothighlands.com/ - Cabot Highlands, formerly Castle Stuart, is an 18 hole golf course designed by Mark Parsinen and Gil Hanse. Taken from their website ‘Located in Inverness, Scotland, surrounded by the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, this celebrated property is woven into the fabric of the region’s rich golf history. Featuring a rugged natural landscape hugging the shoreline of the storied Moray Firth, this is a property worthy of Scotland’s “Home of Golf” prestige.’ With on site lodges being offered Castle Stuart is a great experience worth checking off the bucket list.
Green Fees for the Course are £210 for a single round (April and November) and £270 for May to October.
Want to book? Golf Links | Castle Stuart Golf Links | Dalcross
Edinburgh Golf Trip
Edinburgh offers some phenomenal sightseeing and history but alongside it a stretch of land down the coast that offers continuous high quality golf for miles. The major courses on this trip almost all occupy one strip of land so are easily reached and offer great golf.
North Berwick - https://www.northberwickgolfclub.com/ - North Berwick Golf Club, situated in East Lothian, around 45 minutes away from Edinburgh, is the 13th oldest golf club in the world and was the first club in the world to allow female members. The spectacular links golf club with views of the Firth of Forth, Bass Rock, Craigleith, Lamb and Firdra. The club has hosted many amateur events for both men and women and also hosted the final qualifying for the Open Championship.
Locals Tip: Watch out for the wall in front of the green on the 13th and one of the hardest greens in the world on 16.
Green Fees for 1st April 2023 - 31st October 2023 is £200.
Want to book? Book: North Berwick Golf Club
North Berwick
Gullane
Gullane - https://www.gullanegolfclub.co.uk/ - Gullane Golf Club, situated in East Lothian, around 40 minutes away from the City of Edinburgh, has 3 golf courses suited to all abilities and some of the best facilities in Edinburgh. It has been home to the Scottish Open and the Ladies Scottish Open. With views over Aberlady and Aberlady Bay, along with views of the coast of Fife and the Lomond Hills the scenery surrounding the golf club is always regarded highly.
Locals Tip: Arguably the best golfing facility in Edinburgh – if you have time play one of the other courses, a bit like St Andrews the main course gets all the plaudits but the other courses (specifically No. 2) are brilliant.
Green Fees for Course 1 is £210 for weekdays and £250 for weekends.
Green Fees for Course 2 is £85 for weekdays and £95 for weekends. Green Fees for Course 3 is £55 for weekdays and £65 for weekends.
Want to book? https://brsgolf.com/gullane/visitor_home.php
Dunbar - https://dunbargolfclub.com/ - Dunbar Golf Club, situated in East Lothian, around 30 miles East of Edinburgh, was established in 1857 and then further re-designed by Old Tom Morris in 1894. With records of golf being played in Dunbar for more than 400 years there are few other golfing locations in Scotland that can date as far back. A tricky course played along the coastline where the sea comes into play on numerous holes.
Locals Tip: A traditional Scottish links, old clubhouse, limited practise facilities but a brilliant golf course. Starts with two par 5’s but from No. 4 onwards you are never far from the sea.
Green Fees £115 from Monday - Wednesday, £130 on Friday and £145 on the weekend.
Want to book? Dunbar Golf Club - Booking Information
Dunbar
Renaissance
Renaissance - https://trcaa.com/ - Renaissance Golf Club, located in East Lothian, twenty miles east of the city of Edinburgh, has hosted numerous tournaments such as the Scottish Senior Open, Scottish Open (a joint PGA/DP World Tour event) and the Ladies Scottish Open. As one of the more modern clubs in Scotland Renaissance is just a few minutes away from the town of North Berwick, and the course showcases incredible views over the Firth of Forth and has amazing tradition despite the club being so modern. One of a few very private courses in Scotland, the joining fee is believed to be >£100,000.
Green Fees for the Course are not published and the club seems to be moving towards restricted access for visitors
Want to book? Contact - The Renaissance Club (trcaa.com) – best to give them a call and see what is possible.
Archerfield - https://www.archerfieldgolfclub.com/ - Archerfield Links, situated in East Lothian between the towns of Gullane and North Berwick, 45 minutes away from the City of Edinburgh, has two golf courses on site. One being a traditional links golf course while another is a mix of pine forest and fast-running links. Spectacular views and just a short drive away from North Berwick and Gullane, Archerfield strives for the full ‘Archerfield Experience’ all golfers.
Green Fees for the Course are not published and the club seems but is more accessible than Renaissance
Want to book? Archerfield Links - Get in Touch (archerfieldgolfclub.com) – best to give them a call and see what is possible.
Archerfield
Glasgow Golf Trip
The West coast of Scotland has some of the origins of the Open (Prestwick, Troon, Turnberry) all lay claim to significant parts of golfing history. They are joined by more modern courses like Dundonald that provide other challenges for the golfer.
Troon: Old
Troon: Old - https://www.royaltroon.co.uk/visit/ - Royal Troon is situated in Troon, South Ayrshire, which is southwest of Glasgow. The club, founded in 1878, has hosted the Open Championship 9 times and will host its 10th in 2024, along with hosting tournaments such as the Amateur Championship, the Senior Open Championship and the Women's British Open. With iconic holes such as the 11th hole, the par 3 ‘The Railway’ is often regarded as one of the toughest holes in golf.
Locals Tip: The postage stamp 8th is a great hole, measuring 123 yards you would think it would be straightforward – Enjoy!
Green Fees for Troon are £315 per golfer.
Want to book? Online tee booking - Royal Troon Golf Club
Turnberry - https://www.turnberrygolfclub.net/ - Turnberry, situated in South Ayrshire, is known for the spectacular scenery of places like the islands of Arran and Ailsa Craig, the Mull of Kintyre and even over to Ireland on a clear day. Hosting the Open Championship 4 times (most recently when Tom Watson narrowly missed out on victory), along with the Senior Championship and the Women’s British Open, the Ailsa Course is amidst the ruins of Turnberry castle where the legend has it that King of Scotland, Robert the Bruce, was born in 1274. The lighthouse and the ruins of the castle are a signature symbol of Turnberry that is recognised by golfers worldwide. The course was extensively remodelled a few years ago and the changes are spectacular.
Locals Tip: The halfway hut (a lighthouse) is spectacular – make sure you take the time to enjoy it.
Green Fees for the Ailsa course are £275 per person.
Want to book? Tee Times - Trump Turnberry
Turnberry
Prestwick - https://www.prestwickgc.co.uk/ - Prestwick Golf Club, situated in Prestwick, South Ayrshire, was where the Open Championship Tournament originated. The Open Championship was played at Prestwick Golf Club 24 times. Old Tom Morris designed and built the original golf course at Prestwick, although golf had been played on the land for years previous to the establishment of Prestwick Golf Club. The iconic course is beside Prestwick Airport and has numerous holes that run alongside the railway tracks on the eastern side of the course.
Locals Tip: Brutal opening tee shot if you are not warmed up – a train line (out of bounds) runs along the right hand side of the 1st.
Green Fees for the course between May - September is £220 on weekdays and £250 on weekends, in April and October it is £180 on weekdays and £230 on weekends.
Want to book? Bookings | Prestwick Golf Club (prestwickgc.co.uk)
Prestwick
Western Gailes
Western Gailes - https://www.westerngailes.com/ - Western Gailes, situated in Irvine, Ayrshire, is just 45 minutes away from the City of Glasgow. The reputation of this club is of being one of the finest in the game has spread worldwide and has attracted visitors such as Gary Player and Tom Watson.
Green Fees May - September are £190 per person, for 14th April - 30th April and October it is £150 per person.
Want to book? Book A Tee Time | Western Gailes Golf Club
Glasgow Gailes - https://www.gaileslinks.co.uk/the-course/ - Glasgow Gailes, situated in Ayrshire, South of Glasgow near both Turnberry and Royal Troon, is an Open Qualifying links golf course. It is a part of the prestigious Glasgow Golf Club, which has hosted 32 international competitions since 1927. Being one of the oldest golf clubs in the world, established in 1787, the club thrives with tradition and has the spectacular scenery to match.
Green Fees from October 2022 to April 2023 it is £220 for a 4 ball and £65 for a single round. Green Fees from May 2023 - September 2023 is £130 for a round.
Want to book? Glasgow Golf Club - Book Tees Times Online - Online Golf Booking (brsgolf.com)
Glasgow Gailes
Barassie Golf Club
Barassie Golf Club - https://www.kbgc.co.uk/ - Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club, situated on the outskirts of Troon, South Ayrshire, has 27 brilliant links holes that are perfect for golfers looking to explore the Ayrshire coastline. The scenery along the coastline is a joy for anyone to see and this club makes the most of the surrounding to enhance the experience for all players throughout the year.
Green Fees from January 1st - 31st March it is £45 for an individual and £160 for a fourball. Green Fees from 1st April - 30th April and 1st October - 31st October it is £70 for an individual and £240 for a four ball.
Want to book? Tee Time Reservation - Barassie Links (nexusweb.co.uk)
Dundonald - https://dundonaldlinks.com/ - Dundonald Links, situated on the west coast of Ayrshire, South of Glasgow, was designed by Will Fernie in 1911. The course was one of the longest in the world when it was first designed and established and has recently invested significantly in a new clubhouse and accommodation facility that are rated very highly.
Locals Tip: Extremely difficult off the back tees – only for the brave golfers out there!
Green Fees for the course are £250 in the summer.
Want to book? Dundonald Links - Book Tees Times Online - Online Golf Booking (brsgolf.com)
Dundonald
Fife Golf Trip
While the Old Course is the spiritual home of golf and the centrepiece for a Fife trip – there are so many other great courses in this area it would be a shame for a golfer to miss out on all the other great courses the area has to offer.
Lundin Links
Lundin Links - https://www.lundingolfclub.co.uk/ - Lundin Links, situated on the East Coast of Scotland offers some of the finest examples of links holes in Scotland. The course, almost unchanged since 100 years ago, includes the first five holes in classic links tradition proceeding from the Clubhouse to the Mile Dyke. After crossing the old and extinct railway line players play the more modern 9 holes which were designed by the world famous course designer James Braid on a mixture of links and parkland ground. The last 4 holes revert back to purely traditional links golf style holes. Lundin Links has hosted many final stage Open Qualifying rounds and although not being a long course, it continues to test each and every golfer's ability.
Green Fees - 1st May to 30th September is £150 before 12 noon and £120 after 12 noon, in April and October it is £100 before 12 noon and £80 after 12 noon.
Want to book? https://visitors.brsgolf.com/lundingc#/course/1
Leven Links - https://www.leven-links.com/ - Leven Links, situated on the East Coast of Scotland and next door to Lundin Links is another great example of links golf in Scotland. Taken from their website - “the strength of Leven Links lies in its succession of “less easy” holes and the fact that one turns at the 13th into the prevailing west wind with a lot of work still to be done. At the end is the Home Green, now known as Scoonie, which prior to 1893 was small and square but is now a large putting surface fronted by the “demonic” Scoonie burn. This wide natural water hazard had been described in the past as “yellow as Pactolus; as black as Styx, the colour of ketchup and the density of pea soup all accompanied with the smell of Gaol fever”. Not quite as challenging today it will still take two superlatively struck shots to reach the putting surface in regulation.” The Editor of Golf Monthly has described the older parts of Leven Links as “being one of the best stands of bents and fescues in Scotland – the place in summer to put away the solid ball, leave the wedge in the locker room and hone your chip and run approaches because this is where the real game is played.”
Green Fees - 1st May to 30th September is £95 during the week and £105 at weekends
Want to book? https://www.leven-links.com/play/book-online/
Leven Links
Carnoustie: Championship
Carnoustie: Championship - https://www.carnoustiegolflinks.com/ - Carnoustie Golf Links, is situated in Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland. The Championship course is world renowned and has hosted the Open Championship on eight occasions along with the Women’s British Open and the Senior Open Championship. After being designed and established 180 years ago by Allan Robertson, assisted by Old Tom Morris, it is often rated highly amongst golf courses in the UK and widely regarded as the toughest course on the Open rota.
Locals Tip: A number of other courses attached to it that are worth a play. Also, the clubhouse has indoor simulators to allow you to warm up (handy on those not so nice Scottish days)
Green Fees for the Championship Course between 25th March - 30th April is £192, between 1st May - 16th October is £270, 17th October - 31st October is £192.
Want to book? Booking (carnoustiegolflinks.com)
Montrose - https://montrosegolflinks.com/ - Montrose golf links, situated in Montrose, on the east coast of Scotland, is the 5th oldest golf course in the world. They describe is as - ‘Montrose is situated on the most famous coastline in the world for links golf. We have a classic links course in the 1562 Championship, where golf has been played for 460 years, making it the 5th Oldest in the world. Experience 36 holes of traditional links golf, suited to all ages and abilities, located within stunning scenery. The course you play now is a final layout from 1913 designed by Harry Colt, who decided to use our natural dunes to great effect. Harry, in 1907, also designed our Broomfield Course, which is shorter than the 1562 but equally challenging on a breezy day.’ With golf suited to a range of abilities Montrose is a perfect option for almost all golfers.”
Green Fees for the 1562 course vary throughout the times of the day from £70 to £100 and the green fees for the Broomfield course vary from £22.50 to £27.50.
Want to book? https://visitors.brsgolf.com/montroselinks#/course/3
Montrose
Dumbarnie
Dumbarnie- https://dumbarnielinks.com/ - Dumbranie links, situated in Leven, Fife, on the east coast of Scotland, has a historic setting on the north shore of Largo Bay. “Located only 11 miles from the Home of Golf itself, St. Andrews, this beautiful and secluded corner of the East Neuk of Fife has the most glorious views to the south across the Forth Estuary to the great links of Muirfield, North Berwick and to Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh. What makes this site so rich is its position along a mile and a half golden sandy beach where dolphins and seals are a regular sight just offshore from the course. The topography of this unique 345-acre site allows panoramic views of the sea from every hole on what is classic traditional Scottish linksland.’ Due to being situated so close to the home of golf it is the ideal place to play a round of golf on the journey into or out of St Andrews. A very new Scottish golf course still bedding in but very playable and enjoyable.
Green Fees for the course between 01 May 2023 and 22 October 2023 is £286.
Want to book? https://www.dumbarnielinks.com/standard-booking/
Gleneagles- https://gleneagles.com/golf/ - Gleneagles, situated in Perth, Fife, on the east coast of Scotland, has more than enough to satisfy not just golfers but everyone that arrives there. With 3 top golf courses it is one of the best golf resorts and hotels in the country. “Gleneagles’ reputation as a sporting paradise has flourished for over a century, and golf sits at its very heart. Our three championship golf courses in Perthshire, Scotland celebrate the history and evolution of golf itself - from The King's Course, our Braid-designed masterpiece and 'inland links' classic, and The Queen's Course, one of the finest par-68 heathland golf courses in the UK, to our contemporary Nicklaus-designed PGA Centenary Course. These 54 holes offer a world-class golfing experience to a broad spectrum of enthusiasts, from novices through to the finest players in the world.’ Gleneagles is the perfect destination for those looking to stay at a hotel and play golf or even just relax throughout the day.”
Local Tip: One of the few non links golf courses on this site – the hotel is magnificent and although the ryder cup course (Centenary) is probably best known, the other two courses are (arguably) more enjoyable!
Green Fees for the course between 01 June - 30th June for visitors is £245 and for 01 July - 30 Sept it is £300.
Want to book? https://pursuits.gleneagles.com/reservations/template/21459/?course=The+King%27s
Gleneagles
Aberdeen Golf Trip
The North East of Scotland has developed into an incredible golfing location – links golf as you would imagine it on some of the best courses in Scotland.
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Aberdeen - http://royalaberdeengolf.com/ - Royal Aberdeen, situated in Aberdeen, in the North East of Scotland, was originally founded in 1780. Hosting tournaments such as the Amatuer Championship and The Walker Cup, the club is suitable for those of all levels of ability, although the course does require the player to have a handicap in order to play. With iconic holes and the course being alongside the coastline, Royal Aberdeen has incredible scenery that everyone can enjoy.
Green Fees for 10th April - 7th May are £149 and for 8th may - 15th October it is £215
Want to book? http://royalaberdeengolf.com/page.aspx?pid=9992
Trump - https://www.trumpgolfscotland.com/ - Trump International, situated in Aberdeen, has spectacular scenery along Scotland's north east coastline. “The golf course follows a classic pattern of two out-and-back loops of nine holes. All 18 holes thread their way engagingly through the dunes, rising here to find views of the sea and coastline, plunging there into secluded valleys, offering a sequence of superlative topographies, landscapes, alternating between spaciousness and enclosure, then panoramic view, and the whole time a rich texture of vegetation and wildlife habitats surrounding the golf holes. The golf course will be lacking for nothing. The landscape framework of the site comes close to an ideal. There is nothing missing and the layout as conceived would contain no weak holes. It will produce simply the most dramatic, stimulating, invigorating stretch of golf anywhere I have seen in my career.” With an estate on site, hotels, restaurants and many more, Trump International is a great option for anyone, not just golfers.
Local Tip: A stunning course with iconic views. Worth hitting the back tees on 18 to see if you can hit the par 5 green in 3 shots!
Green Fees are around £325 per player.
Want to book? https://www.trumpgolfscotland.com/golf/tee-times
Trump
Cruden Bay
Cruden Bay - https://crudenbaygolfclub.co.uk/ - Cruden Bay Golf Club, situated in Cruden Bay, Aberdeen, in the North East of Scotland. “It is claimed that golf was played in the village of Cruden Bay as early as 1791. The original course, on the present site, was commissioned by the Great North of Scotland Railway (GNSR) following the expansion of the railways at the end of the 19th century, designed by Old Tom Morris of St Andrews, and opened in 1899.Our Golf Course creates unique challenges demanding the skills of power, placement and fine judgement upon the discerning golfer.”
Rated one of the best in the world, Cruden Bay has the perfect mix of challenges for all golfers but all while allowing everyone to enjoy the course. Some quirky holes including a blind par 3 add to the fun.
Local Tip: Once you have recovered your breath, get the camera phones out on the 9th tee for one of the best views in Scottish golf.
Green Fees for 1st May - 8th October are £165 on weekdays and £180 on weekends.
Want to book? https://crudenbaygolfclub.co.uk/visitors/green-fees/
Murcar Links Golf Club - https://murcarlinks.com/ - Murcar Links Golf Club, situated in Bridge of Don in Aberdeen. “In early December 1908, at a meeting in the Imperial Hotel, Aberdeen, it was decided to proceed with the formation of a new golf club. By March of the following year, the Murcar Links Golf Club officially came into being, but not without some controversy over the choice of name. James Braid and George Smith both advised on alterations and refinements to the Murcar course in the 1930s, but it is essentially the same layout that is in play today. Braid was also responsible for the design of the Strabathie 9-hole course at Murcar. Although this course appears relatively short by modern standards at 5,369 yards (when played as an 18, as each hole has 2 separate tees for competition purposes) it is challenging nonetheless, as the Strabathie Burn comes into play on no fewer than 6 of its 9 holes. When the Seaton Brick and Tile Company went into liquidation in 1924, Murcar Golf Club bought out the railway and ran it as a very successful transport venture to the club until 1949. By this time the motorcar was becoming more prevalent and public transport was improving too. In the AGM/EGM of November 2005, the Members of the time voted unanimously to return the Golf Club to its original 1909, ie Murcar Links. This coincided with its re-launching in 2006 with : a completely refurbished Clubhouse, alterations and improvements to the Murcar Links and the building of a state of the art practice facility. The rest (as they say) is history!”
Local Tip: This course backs onto Royal Aberdeen so is a great option for 36 holes in a day.
Green Fees are £130 per round on weekdays and £150 per round on weekends.
Want to Book? https://www.brsgolf.com/murcarlinks/visitor_home.php
Murcar Links Golf Club
Moray
Moray - http://www.moraygolf.co.uk/home.aspx?i=no - Moray golf club, situated in Lossiemouth on the North East of Scotland, was founded in 1898. “The Old Course was laid out by Old Tom Morris who became a frequent visitor and played a number of exhibition matches in the early years. In these early years of Moray Golf Club, the membership included a number of distillers and the effects of their vision and foresight continue to be enjoyed by members to the present day. These distiller members had been laying down whisky since the formation of the club and in 1900 the club purchased one hogshead (54 Imperial gallons) of Glen Grant 1894 whisky at 7/6 per gallon, one of 1897 at 5/- and two of 1900 at 2/6. Glen Grant continued to be the "club malt" until 1992 when the club changed to "Macallan" having laid down hogsheads of Macallan some years previously.In 2002 the club were unable to purchase more stocks of Macallan and laid down a number of year's supply with the local Glen Moray Distillery.Today's "club malt" is a 12 year old or a 15 year old single malt Glen Moray.’ Moray has two courses, the old course and the new course, meaning that it is suitable for golfers of all abilities.
Local Tip: Tie it into a visit to a local distillery to sample some of Scotland’s finest whiskies
Green fees for 1st April - 31st October is £125 for the old course and £30 for the new course.
Want to book? http://www.moraygolf.co.uk/page.aspx?pid=65814
Highlands Golf Trip
The North of Scotland offers some amazing golf – from the well known landmark courses of Dornoch,Castle Stuart and Nairn to the hidden gems of Brora, Tain and Golspie there is something for everyone.
Royal Dornoch: Championship - https://royaldornoch.com/ - Royal Dornoch, is situated in Dornoch, Sutherland, Scotland. The club has two 18 hole golf courses, the Championship course and the Struie course. The Championship course is located on the Dornoch firth. The club was established 145 years ago, the Championship course was designed by Old Tom Morris. Although never hosting a modern professional tournament the Championship course is often considered the ‘King of Scottish Links Courses’. If this course was closer to central Scotland it would be the Open Rota, a truly amazing experience and links golf as it should be played. Don’t be put off by it’s location, you will regret not making the trip to Dornoch.
Locals Tip: Tie in a trip to Dornoch with a stop off at one of the local distilleries - Ten things to DO in Dornoch: Whisky - Dornoch (visitdornoch.com)
Green Fees for the Championship Course is £210 for a single round and £335 for 2 rounds.
Want to book? Teetimes - Royal Dornoch Championship Links Course
Royal Dornoch: Championship
Castle Stuart/Cabot Highlands
Castle Stuart/Cabot Highlands - https://cabothighlands.com/ - Cabot Highlands, formerly Castle Stuart, is an 18 hole golf course designed by Mark Parsinen and Gil Hanse. This is a stunning golf course, host to the Scottish Open (Phil Mickleson won here the week before winning the Open at Muirfield) the views are incredible. Currently 18 holes but with plans to expand the facility this is a must visit course for any trip to the highlands.
Local Tip: Make sure you take a local caddy, arguably the best in Scotland!!
Green Fees for the Course are £210 for a single round (April and November) and £270 for May to October.
Want to book? Golf Links | Castle Stuart Golf Links | Dalcross
Nairn Golf Club - https://www.nairngolfclub.co.uk/ - Nairn Golf Club, an iconic golf club that has been around since 1887 is a tricky yet extremely enjoyable place to play golf. “The Nairn Golf Club has attracted golfers and golfing interest ever since it was founded in 1887. Within the clubhouse our impressive Archive room holds an extended library of books, reports, competition records, photographs, trophies, pictures, collections clubs and artefacts have been assembled, catalogued and are both referenced and displayed. Extensive collections have been assembled by prominent local members KM Cameron, RJR Gordon and RD Gordon linking the Club to a wider history of the game.”
Nairn has been host to many great tournaments such as the Walker Cup which included players like Matt Kuchar, Luke Donald, Paul Casey and Charley Hull.
Green Fees are £130 in April and October and £190 from May to September.
Want to book? https://www.nairngolfclub.co.uk/web/pages/visitors
Nairn Golf Club
Nairn Dunbar Golf Club
Nairn Dunbar Golf Club - https://nairndunbar.com/ - Nairn Dunbar is a special 18 hole golf course, ranked 9th out of the North of Scotland’s top 100 golf courses. “Situated on the stunning Moray Firth, you are provided with unbelievable scenery as you enjoy your round. When Sir Alexander Duncan of Boath stepped onto the first tee here in 1899, he declared this golfing gem open to all members and visitors. Situated in the busy golfing community of Nairn, our course is one not to be missed.”
Local Tip: situated close to Nairn, an easy 36 hole day with a number of local hotels able to offer a relaxing bed for the evening.
Green fees in April and October are £65pp before 2pm and £45pp after 2pm, from May to September it is £100pp before 3pm and £70pp after 3pm.
Want to book? https://nairndunbar.com/visitors-booking/
Golspie Golf Club - https://www.golspiegolfclub.co.uk/ - Founded in 1889, Golspie is a course to challenge all levels of golf and for all levels to enjoy throughout. “With a design influenced by the great James Braid, our 6021-yard course embodies thee true spirit of Scottish Golf. Breath-taking views to both sea and mountains make it a delight to play for all abilities. But also its a course where links holes lead to heathland with unforgettable pin placements and bunkering throughout. When it’s game over, our clubhouse will ensure you experience the highest standards in Highland hospitality. Sit back and enjoy stunning outlook over the Moray Firth and the friendliest welcome in the whole of Scotland. Situated on the North Coast 500 route, come and find out all that makes Golspie Golf CLub that extra bit special.”
Green Fees on a daily rate is £90.
Want to book? https://www.golspiegolfclub.co.uk/online-booking/
Golspie Golf Club
Tain Golf Club
Tain Golf Club - https://www.tain-golfclub.co.uk/ - Tain Golf Course, located 34 miles North is often considered Old Tom Morris’ northern jewel. “In 1889, a few local devotees of the game had the good sense to invite Old Tom Morris to give the once-over on a piece of land that they proposed to acquire on lease from a local land owner. It was reckoned by Tom Morris that only fifteen holes be constructed and the course opened in this fashion in 1890 but a lack of resources (unfortunately an often recurring theme for the Tain Club over the next century) meant that this was soon reduced to twelve holes. Over the decades, as equipment and especially the golf ball improved immeasurably, many of the original holes became too short for the “modern game” and further adjustments were made to the course until today, few holes can be said to be original. Those that have stood the test of time are the present ninth (playing to the original green), tenth, fourteenth and fifteenth, although these were not their original designations and several others retain parts of the original Tom Morris design.” A course with such history and an iconic course designer is without doubt worth a trip.
Green Fees for a single round in April and October is £50 and for a single round in May to September is £80.
Want to book? https://www.tain-golfclub.co.uk/visitors
Brora Golf Club - https://broragolfclub.co.uk/ - Brora Golf Club is situated in Brora, just over 50 miles away from Inverness. “The golf course design is recognised as being one of James Braid’s finest pieces of work. The green staff work tirelessly to preserve the original design, whilst presenting a course that is regularly acclaimed for its quality. The perfect balance between challenge and fun, and in a breath-taking setting. Our clubhouse provides a spectacular view of the golf course and surrounding links land, and our trained staff are on hand to make your visit to Brora Golf Club comfortable and enjoyable. Refreshments are available from the bar, food is available from the restaurant and our Professional Shop will take care of all your golfing needs.”
Local Tip: Brora, Tain and Golspie are incredible courses – golf as it should be – try to fit at least one into your trip to the Highlands.
Green Fees in April are £80, from May to October it is £125.
Want to book? https://broragolfclub.co.uk/visitors/on-line-booking
Brora Golf Club
Skibo Castle, The Carnegie Club
Skibo Castle, The Carnegie Club - https://www.carnegieclub.co.uk/golf-championship-links.html - Skibo Castle, situated 40 miles away from Inverness, is perfect for not just golf but also relaxing and dining. “The Carnegie Links is the jewel in Skibo’s crown. An 18-hole Championship course on the banks of the Dornoch Firth, it offers players 6,903 yards of golfing genius. There are no tee times at Skibo, so members are free to play as and when the mood takes them.Members love the modern Highland luxury of the Skibo Clubhouse, which has views over both the Carnegie Links and the Dornoch Firth. Golfers also appreciate the fully-stocked Halfway House where they can partake of some light refreshments and perhaps even a wee tipple to fortify them for the return leg back to the Clubhouse.’
Green Fees are £300 with limited availability to non members.
Want to book? https://www.carnegieclub.co.uk/golf-championship-links.html
The Islands Golf Trip
For those who are a bit more adventurous and have some time on their hands – logistically difficult but well worth the effort, the Islands of Scotland have some stunning courses
Ardfin Golf Club - https://www.ardfin.com/golf/ - Ardfin golf club, located on the island of Jura, on the Inner Hebrides. “Ardfin's course is the result of herculean effort. It was designed and built over six years by legendary golf architect, Bob Harrison, whose impressive work includes the Moonah, Ellerstan, The Grand and Nirwana, Bali. He believes golf courses should look as natural and as spectacular as possible, a goal he has excelled at with Ardfin. The whole course is wild and rugged and has been designed to minimise interference with nature, so greens are narrow with fewer bunkers required than most courses, due to the challenging cliffside landscape. Ardfin has already been hailed as "A modern masterpiece" and "An experience that is not available anywhere else." making it a course that should now be on every golfer's bucket list.’
With accommodation and a world renowned golf course on the estate, Ardfin represents everything a golfer could look for when deciding to play a course.
Local Tip: A long journey to get to but fast making a name as one of the most stunning courses in Scotland
Green Fees are not disclosed but this is one of the most exclusive clubs in Scotland
Want to book? https://www.ardfin.com/
Ardfin Golf Club
Machrihanish Golf Club
Machrihanish Golf Club - https://www.machgolf.com/ - Machrihanish Golf Club, located north of the Mull of Kintyre is an iconic golf club with a world renowned championship course. “The Championship Course is a playable, enjoyable, and balanced mix of dramatic and subtly compelling holes. The world class links, crafted by “The Almighty” as Old Tom himself remarked, is mostly characterised by rolling dunescape and marvellous green sites. The course is a wonderful 18-hole journey from start to finish. Often described as spiritual, Machrihanish is a love affair of sport and nature – challenging but fair, charming, and thrilling. Golf as it was intended to be.”
Local Tip: The first tee is spectacular and often rated the best opening tee shot in Scotland – pick a line and be brave.
Green Fees for March and October are £95 and from April to September it is £120.
Want to book? https://www.machgolf.com/greenfees
Machrie Golf Club - https://themachrie.com/ - Machrie Golf Club is located on the isle of Islay on the West coast of Scotland. “The Machrie is an iconic Scottish championship links stretching to over 7000 yards from the back tees from next season. An original Willie Campbell design dating back to 1891, it is now a masterpiece redesigned by DJ Russell and reopened in 2018. Among many recent accolades, it ranks inside the top 50 UK&I and top 20 in Scotland. The perfect links terrain is set on unique dunelands bordering on the magnificent Laggan Bay in Islay. Exceptionally maintained with stunning Hebridean views of ocean, the peaks of Beinn Bheigeir and the Paps of Jura, it will captivate all levels of golfer and will test every aspect of the game. The course offers four sets of tees suitable for all handicaps, and offers generous fairways. But well-placed tee shots are needed to reward players with a chance to attack the pin placements. The inspired run offs, contoured greens and revetted bunkers provide an array of shot selections around the greens which will let the imagination run wild.”
Local Tip: Reached by boat and with accommodation on site this course comes highly recommended by all who visit.
Green Fees are £180 per round from April to October.
Want to book? https://themachrie.com/the-golf/green-fees/
Machrie Golf Club
Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club
Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club - https://machrihanishdunes.com/golf/the-course/ - Machrihanish Dunes Golf Club is located in Kintyre, on the west coast of Scotland. “And now, with the mighty Atlantic providing a dramatic backdrop, today’s golfers can enjoy the game as it was meant to be played. Here you will experience, possibly for the first time, golf the way it began. This is the true essence of the game at its most basic: golfer against the elements, golfer against himself, and golfer against a wholly natural course that is never stagnant. The joy of the game in its oldest and purest form – links golf – lies in adapting to the precise conditions of time and place. The ever-changing linksland at Machrihanish Dunes gives you a rare opportunity to create and craft golf shots you might never have imagined playing before. Machrihanish Dunes encourages thought, creativity, and imagination. For the golfer who accepts the invitation, the reward is a truly unforgettable experience.”
Local Tip: Within 5 miles of Machrihanish, a more modern layout with a number of blind shots – much easier second time round
Green Fees are £80 for a single round.
Want to book? https://machrihanishdunes.com/golf/book-golf/
Dunaverty Golf Club - http://www.dunavertygolfclub.com/ - Dunaverty Golf Club is located in southend, Argyll and Bute, Scotland. “The course is a fine par 66 18 hole natural links extending to 4,799 yards. High and low handicappers alike will enjoy its testing layout, the springy turf on the undulating fairways and arguably one of the finest set of greens in Scotland. Spectacular views over the landscape, Sanda Island to the south, Ailsa Craig and Ayrshire to the east and Northern Ireland to the south west, will add to the golfers enjoyment of this challenging and exceptionally well maintained course.”
Local Tip: don’t be put off by the short length of this course – it is spectacular, fences round the green to stop roaming sheep, holes running along the beach – a really fun golf course easily combined with a game at Machrihanish and Machrihanish Dunes. An honesty box for green fees.
Green Fees from March to October are £40 on weekdays and £45 at weekends.
Want to book? http://www.dunavertygolfclub.com/contactus/index.htm
Dunaverty Golf Club
