Scotland is known for some of the world’s most popular golf courses, which draw golfers of all skill levels.
Players usually seek out reviews which aid them in selecting a specific course based on the design of the course, rating of the difficulty, available services, and total experience.
This document explains in detail Scottish golf courses in Scotland and analyses them critically, considering their conditions, design from the available feedback, and layout. It also explains the quality of the greens, maintenance, and the overall difficulty of the course for novices and skilled players.
Table of Contents
Overview of Scotland's Golf Courses
Heritage and History of Scottish Golf
Scotland is one of the oldest nations to play golf, dating back over 600 years. The Old Course at St Andrews, which was built in the 15th century, set many standards which are still adhered to today.
Scottish golf often assimilates traditions with golf courses designed to be in harmony with the original ways of playing the game.
Most courses go to great lengths to maintain the natural state of the land without making major alterations.
The golf courses in Scotland have played a major role in the development of the laws of the game and the equipment used. This rich heritage and history makes golfing in Scotland a unique experience as it combines the sport and historical significance.
Scottish Golf Courses Classification
Scotland primarily has three types of courses: links, parkland and moorland. Links courses are located mostly along the coast and have sandy soil, dunes, and wind. Inland courses are parkland with trees and lush grass, which is less exposed.
Notable Regions for Golf in Scotland
Key regions include Fife, Ayrshire, and Aberdeenshire. Fife hosts St Andrews, known as the “Home of Golf,” and several championship courses.
Ayrshire offers Turnberry and Royal Troon, famous for hosting the Open Championships.
| Region | Famous Courses | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Fife | St Andrews (Old Course, New Course) | Historic, links, coastal |
| Ayrshire | Turnberry, Royal Troon | Championship, links, windy |
| Aberdeenshire | Royal Aberdeen, Cruden Bay | Moorland, rough terrain |
| East Lothian | Muirfield, Gullane | 105+ mph |
Top-Rated and Famous Golf Courses
Golfing Links and Championship Venues of Legend
The Old Course at St Andrews is perhaps the most famous golf course in Scotland, virtually recognisable all around the world.
It provides a traditional links-style experience with its strategically placed hard bunkers, such as the vastly recognised Road Hole.
Troon Royal and Muirfield are also frequent hosts of The Open Championship, making them top favourites for serious golfers.
Carnoustie Golf Links is recognised for its challenging layout, which is hard to master. The Floor Ailsa Course of Turnberry offers breathtaking views of the sea while maintaining a tough championship course.
Underrated Gems and Rising Stars
Scotland is home to several underrated goliath golfing courses, and ‘West Kilbride Golf Club’ and ‘Machrihanish Golf Club’ are no exception.
While ‘West Kilbride Golf Club’ offers peaceful greens set in a historical locale, ‘Machrihanish Golf Club’ is what it’s called for – boasting wild coastal views and fierce winds challenging even the most seasoned golfers.
| Course Name | Type | Known For | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Andrews Old Course | Championship Links | Historic layout and The Open | Public |
| Royal Troon | Championship Links | Difficult bunkers and fairways | Private |
| Castle Stuart | Modern Links | Accessibility and design | Public |
| Machrihanish | Coastal Links | Scenic views and wind challenge | Public |
| Dundonald Links | Modern Links | Variety and value | Public |
Comprehensive Scotland Golf Course Rankings
Ranked among the best in golf, Scotland boasts numerous courses from which golfers can choose based on their design, difficulty, and landscape.
We have ranked the courses based on their history, layout, and player experience, and this section showcases places considered the best in terms of play, those that feature mild challenges, and those with breathtaking vistas.
| Rank | Course Name | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | St Andrews Old Course | The Home of Golf |
| 2 | Muirfield | Championship-level difficulty |
| 3 | Royal Troon | Tough coastal links |
| 4 | Carnoustie | “Car-nasty” for difficulty |
| 5 | Royal Aberdeen | Traditional seaside layout |
| 6 | Kingsbarns | Modern, well-maintained |
| 7 | North Berwick | Unique holes, seaside views |
| 3 | Turnberry | Stunning cliffside views |
| 9 | Gleneagles | Resort style, varied holes |
| 10 | Western Gailes | Remote and wild links |
Best Courses for Challenging Play
Scotland is home to some of the most challenging golf courses that test one’s strategy, accuracy, and stamina.
Carnoustie Golf Links is notorious for its fierce rough and quick greens. Muirfield presents quick fairways which are littered with complicated bunkers.
Others include the Royal Aberdeen with its long, narrow fairways and deep bunkers.
Castle Stuart has tricky winds and water that can challenge mid- and high-handicappers. Most people consider these courses to be ideal for advanced players craving a challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best-rated golf courses in Scotland?
St Andrews Old Course is considered the best and has many reputable golfers. Royal Aberdeen and Muirfield also have high professional ratings. Because of their design, historic significance, and good entertainment value, these courses are very challenging.
What public golf courses in Scotland are under £100, but are the best value for money?
Many island golf courses provide good value under £100, in these are Dunbar, Cruden Bay, and Western Gailes, which are strong in design and reputably priced. These allow golf lovers to have fun without being burdensomely charged.
Which public golf courses are the most well-known in Scotland?
Besides St Andrews, Musselburgh Links and Gullane Golf Club are top public courses. These courses are well kept and open to the public making them popular among golf enthusiasts around the world.
What is the best month to go for a golf trip to Scotland?
June and July are the best suited for golf trips as St Andrews is a favourite for many.
A massive plus is that the weather is generally warm with longer days, which makes golfing more pleasant.
What are some lesser-known but highly rated golf courses in the southern part of Scotland?
Dalmellington and Southerness are greatly appreciated but not very famous golf courses located in the southern part of Scotland.
These offer breathtaking views along with superbly manicured fairways to golfers, which is unlike many crowded areas.
