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  4. Golf

Leven Links Golf Course in the Kingdom of Fife.

Fife Council / Airborne Lens

The best golf courses in Scotland

With a legacy stretching back more than 600 years, there’s no finer place to play golf than the country that gave the game to the world.

Why Scotland for golf?

From legendary links courses shaped by wind and sea to welcoming parkland fairways in the heart of our cities, Scotland offers an unrivalled golfing experience for players of every level. Golf in Scotland is as much about atmosphere as it is about scorecards. Experience early-morning tee times with the sea mist rolling in, listen to golf stories in historic clubhouses, and walk courses that have changed very little over centuries. Here you will find that golf is woven into everyday life, from small coastal towns to world-famous resorts. Scotland is home to: 

  • The oldest golf course in the world at St Andrews. 
  • Some of the most prestigious tournaments, including The Open Championship, held at St Andrews from 11 to 18 July 2027, as well as the Scottish Open and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. 
  • A remarkable variety of courses, from classic seaside links to parkland and nine-hole layouts. 

Famous courses in Scotland

Some Scottish courses are woven into the very fabric of the game. Follow in the footsteps of golfing greats and book a round of golf at one of Scotland's famous championship courses.

Tee-off somewhere iconic

Tournaments and events

Scotland continues to host some of the biggest events in the global golfing calendar, offering visitors the chance to experience elite golf in iconic settings.

Alfred Dunhill Links Championship

Don’t miss the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship across the historic Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns.

Genesis Scottish Open

In East Lothian, this Rolex Series event gives leading players a final chance to qualify for The Open and The Masters.

155th Open Championship

The Open returns to the iconic Old Course, St Andrews. Register now for tickets.

Golf breaks, tours & packages

Many visitors choose to experience Scotland through a guided golf tour or tailored package, combining tee times, accommodation, and transport. These are a great option if you want to play multiple courses across different regions, or if you’re visiting for the first time and want local expertise.

You can also plan your own golf break around one base – staying in a city, coastal village, or countryside retreat and playing a mix of famous courses and local favourites nearby.

Scottish accommodation with golf nearby

Royal Troon Golf Course

Where to play golf in Scotland

Every part of Scotland has its own golfing character, shaped by landscape, history and local traditions. Discover somewhere new to play the game you love.  

East Lothian

Often called Scotland’s Golf Coast, East Lothian boasts more championship links per square mile than anywhere else in the country, all within easy reach of Edinburgh. 

Golf in East Lothian

Fife

Fife is synonymous with St Andrews and is a must for first-time visitors. Alongside famous links, you’ll find a dense cluster of traditional courses overlooking the coast.

Welcome to Fife

The Glen Golf Club At North Berwick

Ayrshire & Arran

On the west coast, dramatic seaside courses sit alongside views of Arran and Ailsa Craig. Ayrshire is home to some of Scotland’s most storied Open Championship venues, Turnberry and Troon. 

Golf in Ayrshire

The Highlands

Play your game against a remote, rugged and unforgettable backdrop. Highland golf offers spectacular natural links where the scenery is every bit as memorable as the golf itself. 

The finest Scottish Highland golf courses

Trump Turnberry

© Trump Turnberry

Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

From historic inland courses to modern championship links, the north-east offers variety, challenge and year-round playability. 

Golf in Aberdeenshire

Moray Speyside

Less crowded but consistently high quality, this region combines classic links courses with whisky country. Why not relive your finest shots over a quiet dram? 

Golf in Moray

Cruden Bay Golf Club, Aberdeenshire

Scottish Borders, Perthshire, Dumfries & Galloway

Ideal for a quieter golf break, these regions blend parkland and links courses with peaceful countryside and warm local welcomes. 

Golf in Dumfries & Galloway

Golf in the Scottish Borders

Golf in Perthshire

Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire

Plan your golf trip

From luxury resorts and historic hotels to cosy B&Bs and self‑catering cottages, you’ll find accommodation to suit every style of golf holiday.

Hotels in Scotland

From historic hotels in city centre locations to cosy hotel stays in the countryside, plan and book your hotel break today.

Self-catering holiday accommodation in Scotland

Self-catering stays allow you to relax in a space that feels like home whilst you explore the glorious Scottish countryside and attractions nearby.

Luxury holidays and breaks in Scotland

Plan your luxury getaway in Scotland, from sumptuous accommodation to Michelin-star dining.

Stay in a castle in Scotland

Climb up the grand staircase to a luxury bedroom fit for a king or queen.

FAQs

When is the best time to play golf in Scotland?

The main golf season runs from late spring to early autumn, when daylight is long and courses are in peak condition. Summer offers long, relaxing evenings, while spring and autumn can be quieter and excellent for value. 


Do I need a handicap to play in Scotland?

Some championship courses require proof of handicap, particularly during peak season. Many other courses welcome players of all abilities without restrictions. 


Can beginners play golf in Scotland?

Absolutely. Scotland has hundreds of friendly, affordable courses ideal for beginners, as well as coaching facilities and shorter nine‑hole layouts. 


Do I need to book tee times in advance?

Yes, especially for well-known courses and during summer. Booking ahead is strongly recommended. 


Can I hire clubs and equipment?

Most major courses and resorts offer club hire, making it easy to travel light. 


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