Scotland is pretty much a golfer’s paradise, with its esteemed sporting heritage and impressive range of fairways and greens. In fact, it has the world’s highest number of courses per capita. For golf enthusiasts, a trip north of the border is basically a pilgrimage.
Generally accepted as the birthplace of golf since the Middle Ages, the land otherwise known as Caledonia boasts some of the world’s most iconic, challenging and showstopping courses. From rugged coastal landscapes to lush parklands, there’s a golfing experience to suit all tastes. Whether you’re drawn to the history and tradition of St. Andrews or the breathtaking scenery of Royal Dornoch, there’s something for every golfer and every ability.
Each location we’ve selected offers a unique golfing experience, so if you’re looking for the top golf courses in Scotland, read our comprehensive guide and find out what makes each one so special.
St. Andrews Links, Fife
Our tour of the best golf courses in Scotland starts with none other than St. Andrews Links, which is synonymous with golfing history and often referred to as The Home of Golf. The Old Course, which was established around 1400, is the most famous course in the world. Its iconic double greens, deep bunkers, and the Swilcan Bridge make it a must-visit for golfers with a weakness for tradition and prestige. The town of St. Andrews is charming in itself, with several other outstanding courses in close proximity making it even more of a draw.
St. Andrews is open to members of the public, making Scotland’s most illustrious golfing venue fairly accessible. If you’re wondering whether it’s expensive to play golf in Scotland, you may be surprised to find out that playing at one of the best comes at a relatively reasonable price. You can get a three-day, three-course package (including the Old Course) from £175, depending on the time of year. What’s more, this also includes £25 towards food and drink.
Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Highlands
Nestled in the east Highlands, Royal Dornoch was founded in 1877 (though people are said to have played here since at least 1616) and is renowned for its stunning scenery. This links course offers challenging fairways set against a backdrop of rolling white sand dunes and rugged coastlines. The coastal waters of Dornoch Firth provide a magical setting for any activity, which is why golfers don’t just head here for a round or two but also to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.
This isolated course features sumptuous accommodation that prides itself on traditional hospitality, so you can truly relax and be taken care of in the splendour of these wild yet elevating surroundings. That’s not all though; in 2020, Royal Dornoch was named Golfscape’s number one in the World’s Top 100 Golf Courses.
Muirfield, East Lothian
The world’s oldest club, Muirfield, is a privately owned links course dating back to 1744. Home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, it’s known for its exclusivity, elegance and rich history. Hosting the Ryder Cup, Walker and Curtis Cup, along with 16 Open Championships, it comes second only to St. Andrews in the number of tournaments played here.
This course features impeccable fairways, undulating greens, and a demanding, circular layout that sits close to the sea, with weather conditions often adding drama to the game. Contrary to what its exclusive reputation suggests, playing here isn’t a privilege reserved only for members; visitors can also play here on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Royal Troon Golf Club, Ayrshire
Located on the west coast of Scotland and founded in 1878, Royal Troon is known for its tournament pedigree. It will host golf’s original major, The Open Championship, for the tenth time in 2024. The first and last club in Great Britain to have been afforded royal status by Queen Elizabeth II, it has produced a list of champions not to be sniffed at, including course record holders Tiger Woods and Greg Norman.
The challenging layout of Royal Troon, with deep rough, gorse and broom often accompanied by strong coastal winds, always adds an element of unpredictability to the game. Its iconic 8th hole, the Postage Stamp, is a test of precision that’s become infamous in the golfing world. It’s located on high ground with a dropping shot over a gully to a long, narrow green with two bunkers and a crater bunker. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also on the side of a sandhill.
Trump Turnberry, Ayrshire
Trump Turnberry is more than just a golf course; it’s a luxury resort that attracts those who prefer the finer things in life. While this is undeniably a place to enjoy golf with a side of opulence, the courses themselves still have serious standing and have established their place in history.
The two stunning courses, Ailsa and King Robert the Bruce, are world-class venues. The Ailsa Course is notable for its jaw-dropping coastal views against Arran and Ailsa Craig; as the host of four Open Championships, it has also set the scene for some of golf’s most memorable moments over the years. The 2017-established King Robert the Bruce course offers a more modern, accessible golfing experience, while still proudly displaying views of castle ruins, a lighthouse and a rousing coastline.
Bathgate Golf Club, West Lothian
Although this venue may be lesser seen on the top golf course lists, Bathgate is undoubtedly up there if you’re looking to find out how to play cheap golf in Scotland. Two Ryder Cup captains were created here in Eric Brown and Bernard Gallacher, as well as Ryder Cup player Stephen Gallacher. Established in 1892, the fairway is suitable for all abilities and ages, making for a welcoming environment for men, women, children and adults. You can enjoy a refurbished sports bar and catering, from lunch menus to full catering packages for functions.
You can play for £40 a round during the week, £45 a round on a weekend, or £55/£60 for a full day of play. If you want to sign up for the full membership, it’s £707, or £537 for ages 26-29. Adult memberships are discounted to £537 if you’re playing after 5.30pm on weekdays, or after 2.30pm at the weekend.
Carnoustie Golf Links, Angus
Golf enthusiasts are thought to have played at Carnoustie Golf Links since around 1560, with some of the game’s earliest ambassadors originating from here. It has hosted the Open eight times and been associated with a variety of headline-grabbing moments. The course was officially founded in 1867 and has produced Open Championship winners in Britain, America, Canada, South Africa and Australia.
Carnoustie is famed for its difficulty, earning the nickname ‘Car-nasty’ among pros. The challenging Championship Course features narrow fairways, thick rough, and treacherous bunkers. It’s a true test of a golfer’s skills and nerve, making it a favourite for those wanting a challenging round. You can play a single round at a cost of £66 and upwards (from 2024), with various package offers available.
Gleneagles, Perthshire
Gleneagles is a world-renowned golf resort with three championship courses – the King’s, the Queen’s, and The PGA Centenary. The latter, designed by Jack Nicklaus, has hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and the 2019 Solheim Cup. The entire estate offers superior facilities and a luxurious experience for golfers. Despite that, the course is known for its warm and friendly welcome, putting you fully at ease as you enjoy unbridled luxury and partake in world-class dining, shopping and spa facilities.
Golf purists love the King’s Course for its high-quality design on incredible terrain, around valleys, woods, streams and glens, with a good amount of tests requiring good technical skills. That said, the Queen’s is enchanting too and has seen its own share of illustrious names grace its ridges, woodland setting and lochans.
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, Aberdeenshire
Situated along the North Sea and founded in 1780, Royal Aberdeen is one of Scotland’s oldest and most traditional links courses. The Balgownie course is particularly beloved for its front nine, running along rugged coastline, while the back nine challenges golfers with gorse-lined fairways. It’s a classic Scottish golf experience, with the fantastic surroundings of Aberdeen Beach and the North Sea.
The club has hosted the Scottish, Open, Walker Cup and Amateur Championship, while ranking highly among the world’s best venues, even in front of some that are considered the best Open and US Open courses.
Balcomie Links, Crail
Balcomie Links is home to The Crail Golfing Society, which began life in 1786 alongside only six other golf clubs the world over. It’s right over on the east of the Kingdom of Fife, at Fife Ness, with the original course well preserved since the first nine holes were laid out in 1895 by the father of golf, Old Tom Morris.
Balcomie often sees famous players enjoying a game here while competing over at St Andrews, such is its reputation as a highly enjoyable place to play. However, anyone can play here, from members to visitors, and see how it’s retained a truly authentic feel. There are unique features at every turn, from the landmark lifeboat shed to the old railway sleepers and the Danes Dike defensive wall.
Shiskine Golf Course, Blackwaterfoot
Nestled on the stunning Isle of Arran, Shiskine stands out as one of the hidden gems among Scotland’s golf courses. With panoramic views of the Kilbrannan Sound and the Kintyre Peninsula, the course is surrounded by heathland, beaches, and rocky outcrops, making it a visual feast. The 12-hole layout allows players to appreciate the scenic beauty without the pressure of an 18-hole round.
This classic course provides players with the authentic Scottish links experience. The firm, fast-running fairways and curving greens are a nod to the sport’s heritage. The unpredictable coastal winds add an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the game. Shiskine’s welcoming and friendly atmosphere also adds to its charm. It’s a course where both beginners and seasoned pros can enjoy a game without intimidation. The community-driven, laid-back ambience makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely round.
Cruden Bay Golf Course
Situated on the rugged Aberdeenshire coast in northeastern Scotland, Cruden Bay is a true masterpiece of links golf and is widely considered one of the finest in the country. With its captivating natural beauty and a layout that’s both challenging and exhilarating, it offers a golfing experience that’s second to none, with towering sand dunes, expansive beaches, and dramatic cliffside views of the North Sea.
Cruden Bay embodies the true spirit of traditional links golf. The firm, bouncy fairways and rolling greens are surrounded by natural dunes and rugged bunkers, emphasising the need for creative shot-making and precision. It’s a place where golfers can fully experience the magnificence of the sport’s origins. The clubhouse, with its panoramic views of the course and sea, is a perfect spot for relaxation after a round of golf, complete with delicious Scottish cuisine.
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