12 Famous championship golf courses in Scotland

The Old Course at St Andrews is at the top of every golfer's bucket list. The oldest public golf course in the world has hosted The Open Championship many times and offers supreme challenges along way, including the notorious Hell Bunker. At sunset, don't forget to snap a selfie at the Swilcan Bridge!

St Andrews is a town dedicated to the game, with the R&A World Golf Museum showcasing the early history of golf competition in Scotland. Whilst you're in town, don't miss a delicious meal overlooking the ocean at The Seafood Restaurant, or a burger at the Jigger Inn, before finishing the day in style with a night's stay at the Old Course Hotel.

Founded in 1878, Royal Troon is considered one of the most challenging links courses in the world. Set within the beautiful Ayrshire coastline, an area dotted with incredible golf courses, it proudly hosted the prestigious 152nd Open Championship back in 2024.

After watching or playing some golf, explore the seaside town of Troon, and walk along the blissful promenade with an ice cream and admire the boats at Troon Yacht Haven. Here, you can also enjoy a lovely sit-down dinner at Scott's Bar & Restaurant overlooking the marina and with views towards Arran and Ailsa Craig, or sample some tasty seafood delights by the sea.

Overlooking the Moray Firth, Castle Stuart has been a longtime favourite with golfers across the globe. In 2016, the game's finest players were here in action at the Scottish Open. 

As you play, look out for landmarks including Castle Stuart itself, Chanonry Lighthouse and Kessock Bridge. Relax after a day on the green with a trip to the club spa, or why not spend a night in Inverness, our most northerly city? Musts for foodies are sister restaurants The Kitchen and The Mustard Seed, both stylish riverside restaurants serving up locally-sourced European dishes with a unique Highland twist.

Skirting the famous loch and making use of the uniquely varied landscape, The Carrick at Cameron House has hosted the Ladies Scottish Open and EuroPro Tour events in the past. Warning: the awe-inspiring surroundings might distract you from making the perfect putt.

After a round on the course, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park awaits with its imposing Munros, sparkling lochs and serene walking trails. Stay over at the Cameron House for a taste of true luxury, with spa treatments and several dining options.

Loch Lomond’s ‘sister’ course Dundonald Links proudly hosted the men's and ladies' Scottish Open in 2017 - the first time in history that both events have been played on the same course back-to-back.

Designed by Kyle Phillips, the course gives a real test to all levels of golfer. There are excellent facilities and a cosy clubhouse to boot with magnificent views across to Arran. Dundonald is in great company with the likes of Prestwick and Royal Troon nearby, and is only around 40 minutes away from Glasgow Airport by car.

For a slice of history, visit the impressive medieval tower house Dundonald Castle or have a hearty meal at The Ship Inn, a few miles away in the town of Irvine, which offers traditional Scottish meals aplenty.

One of East Lothian's finest courses, Gullane has welcomed fierce golfing competition for 350 years, proudly showcasing its three courses to the public. On Gullane No.1, enjoy sensational views across to Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth. Remember to book in advance as playing here is always popular. Known as Scotland's Golf Coast, East Lothian is dotted with magnificent courses, so you can try a few while you're here.

Take the chance to explore more of East Lothian - make a visit to the fascinating Museum of Flight at East Fortune, visit the beautiful Tantallon Castle or wander along the sands at North Berwick and enjoy views across to the Bass Rock. During the summer months, enjoy some freshly-caught seafood at the Lobster Shack, a quaint eatery on North Berwick's harbour. Try out the local specialities at the cosy Duck Inn in the village of Aberlady.

This illustrious course hosted the first ever Open Championship in 1860. With its pristine terrain, undulating greens and perfectly-designed holes, at Prestwick Golf Club you can immerse yourself in golfing history. A stone cairn marks the spot where the first tee was struck in Open Championship golf. There are two other courses nearby, the Prestwick St Nicholas and Prestwick St Cuthbert, both offering fabulous 18-hole tests.

Whilst you're visiting the town, stop for a bite to eat in one of the town's pubs or restaurants. Don't forget to explore more of the blissful Ayrshire coastline and practice your swing with more golf courses in the region. 

Carnoustie is a name that strikes both excitement and fear into the hearts of golfers! Known as one of the toughest links courses in the world, it has hosted multiple Open Championships, including the dramatic 1999 championship, famously won by Scottish golfer Paul Lawrie. Its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable coastal winds make it a true test of skill and nerve, earning its reputation as a championship venue of the highest order.

Just a short drive from St Andrews, Kingsbarns offers a modern twist on classic links golf. Opened in 2000, it quickly established itself as a world-class course and is now a regular stop during the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. With sweeping views over the North Sea and a layout that rewards creativity, Kingsbarns combines beauty with challenging play, making it a must-visit for serious golfers.

Nestled in the heart of Perthshire, Gleneagles is synonymous with luxury and world-class golf. The PGA Centenary Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and the 2019 Solheim Cup, cementing its status as a championship venue. Its rolling fairways and strategic bunkering offer a parkland-style challenge that contrasts beautifully with Scotland’s coastal links.

Few courses can match the drama and history of Turnberry’s Ailsa Course, one of the golfing highlights of a trip to Scotland’s west coast. With spectacular views of Ailsa Craig, this course has staged four Open Championships, including the legendary “Duel in the Sun” between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977. Its stunning setting and demanding design make it one of the best golf courses in Scotland.

Cruden Bay may not have the same global fame as St Andrews or Carnoustie, but among golf purists, it’s considered one of Scotland’s finest. Located in Aberdeenshire, this classic links course offers a quirky, challenging layout with blind shots and towering dunes. The course has hosted many top amateur events and has a unique character and pedigree.