The best golf courses in Scotland

Golf in Scotland is as much about atmosphere as it is about scorecards. It’s early‑morning tee times with the sea mist rolling in, historic clubhouses full of stories, and courses that have changed very little over centuries. Here, 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 in St Andrews.
• Some of the most prestigious tournaments, including The Open, the Scottish Open and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
• A remarkable variety of courses, from classic seaside links to parkland and nine‑hole layouts.

Whether you’re planning a once‑in‑a‑lifetime pilgrimage, a relaxed golf break with friends, or a longer tour exploring multiple regions, Scotland makes it easy to build an unforgettable itinerary.

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

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

Known as the Home of Golf, 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

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 and open coastal landscapes.

Golf in Moray