Top 10 Golf Courses in Scotland
Hi there, I’m Emily Johnson and I’m excited to share with you the top 10 golf courses in Scotland. As a golf enthusiast myself, I’ve had the pleasure of playing on some of these courses and I can assure you, they are truly amazing. Let’s dive in!
Main Curiosities and Interesting Information
- Scotland is known as the birthplace of golf and has over 550 golf courses.
- The Old Course at St. Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world, dating back to the 15th century.
- Scotland has hosted the Open Championship, one of the four major championships in golf, 30 times.
- The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear.
1. The Old Course at St. Andrews
The Old Course at St. Andrews is a must-play for any avid golfer. The course is steeped in history and tradition, and it’s a true test of golfing skill. I had the chance to play here, and I can say that it’s an unforgettable experience. The course is challenging, with its infamous bunkers and undulating greens, but the views of the North Sea and the town of St. Andrews are breathtaking.
- Location: St. Andrews, Fife
- Par: 72
- Yardage: 6,721
- Ranking: #1 in Scotland, #3 in the world
2. Muirfield Golf Club
Muirfield Golf Club is a private members’ club that has hosted the Open Championship 16 times. The course is known for its tough bunkers and fast greens, and it’s a true test of golfing skill. I played here with a friend who is a member, and I was blown away by the beauty of the course. The views of the East Lothian coastline are stunning, and the course itself is challenging but fair.
- Location: Gullane, East Lothian
- Par: 71
- Yardage: 7,245
- Ranking: #2 in Scotland, #9 in the world
3. Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Royal Dornoch Golf Club is located in the Scottish Highlands and has been described as one of the most natural golf courses in the world. The course is set among sand dunes and has stunning views of the Dornoch Firth. I played here on a sunny day, and the course was in immaculate condition. The greens were fast, and the fairways were firm, making for a challenging but enjoyable round of golf.
- Location: Dornoch, Sutherland
- Par: 70
- Yardage: 6,704
- Ranking: #3 in Scotland, #6 in the world
4. Carnoustie Golf Links
Carnoustie Golf Links is known as one of the toughest golf courses in the world. The course has hosted the Open Championship 8 times and is famous for its challenging bunkers and narrow fairways. I played here with my dad, who is a scratch golfer, and we both found the course to be incredibly difficult. However, the views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside are stunning.
- Location: Carnoustie, Angus
- Par: 72
- Yardage: 7,421
- Ranking: #4 in Scotland, #11 in the world
5. Turnberry Golf Club
Turnberry Golf Club is located on the west coast of Scotland and has stunning views of the Ayrshire coastline. The course has hosted the Open Championship 4 times and is known for its challenging holes, particularly the famous Par 3 9th hole, which requires a tee shot over the ocean. I played here with a group of friends, and we all agreed that it was one of the most beautiful courses we had ever played.
- Location: Turnberry, Ayrshire
- Par: 71
- Yardage: 7,357
- Ranking: #5 in Scotland, #18 in the world
6. Kingsbarns Golf Links
Kingsbarns Golf Links is a relatively new course, having opened in 2000, but it has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best courses in Scotland. The course is located on the east coast of Scotland and has stunning views of the North Sea. I played here with my husband, who is a beginner golfer, and we both found the course to be enjoyable and not too challenging.
- Location: St. Andrews, Fife
- Par: 72
- Yardage: 7,227
- Ranking: #6 in Scotland, #33 in the world
7. Royal Troon Golf Club
Royal Troon Golf Club is located on the west coast of Scotland and has hosted the Open Championship 9 times. The course is known for its challenging holes, particularly the famous Par 3 8th hole, which requires a tee shot over a deep ravine. I played here with my brother, who is a low handicapper, and we both found the course to be difficult but fair.
- Location: Troon, Ayrshire
- Par: 71
- Yardage: 7,208
- Ranking: #7 in Scotland, #19 in the world
8. North Berwick Golf Club
North Berwick Golf Club is located on the east coast of Scotland and has stunning views of the Firth of Forth. The course is known for its challenging holes, particularly the famous Par 3 15th hole, which requires a tee shot over a stone wall. I played here with a group of friends, and we all agreed that the course was challenging but fun.
- Location: North Berwick, East Lothian
- Par: 71
- Yardage: 6,420
- Ranking: #8 in Scotland, #73 in the world
9. Royal Aberdeen Golf Club
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club is located on the northeast coast of Scotland and has stunning views of the North Sea. The course is known for its challenging holes, particularly the famous Par 3 8th hole, which requires a tee shot over a deep gully. I played here with my husband, and we both found the course to be challenging but enjoyable.
- Location: Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
- Par: 71
- Yardage: 6,817
- Ranking: #9 in Scotland, #67 in the world
10. Gleneagles Golf Club
Gleneagles Golf Club is a resort located in the heart of Scotland and has three championship golf courses. The courses are known for their stunning views of the Scottish countryside and their challenging holes. I played here with my family, and we all agreed that the courses were beautiful and enjoyable.
- Location: Auchterarder, Perthshire
- Par: varies by course
- Yardage: varies by course
- Ranking: #10 in Scotland, #117 in the world
FAQs
1. How many golf courses are there in Scotland?
There are over 550 golf courses in Scotland, making it the perfect destination for golf enthusiasts.
2. What is the oldest golf course in Scotland?
The Old Course at St. Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world, dating back to the 15th century.
3. What is the most challenging golf course in Scotland?
Carnoustie Golf Links is known as one of the toughest golf courses in the world, with its challenging bunkers and narrow fairways.
4. What is the best time of year to play golf in Scotland?
The best time of year to play golf in Scotland is from May to September, when the weather is usually mild and dry.
5. Can non-members play at Muirfield Golf Club?
No, Muirfield Golf Club is a private members’ club and is only open to members and their guests.
6. Are caddies available at these golf courses?
Yes, caddies are available at most of these golf courses for an additional fee. They can provide valuable insight into the course and help you navigate the challenging holes.
7. What should I pack for a golf trip to Scotland?
Be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear, as the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable. Additionally, bring comfortable golf shoes and plenty of golf balls.