An Expat’s Guide to the Best Golf Courses in Scotland

July 5, 2023 Jordan Fuller

Image by Wolfgang Claussen from Pixabay

Golf and Scotland are inseparable. This is where the great game began, made popular by Mary, Queen of Scots! In fact, it was she who commissioned Scotland’s most historic course, St. Andrews, and firmly cemented the sport in the legends and stories of the country. 

If you’ve moved here recently, you can’t live in this country without being at least a little interested in getting out on one (or more) of the best golf courses in Scotland! Whether you’re completely new to the sport or you’ve been golfing for decades, swinging your clubs on these courses is a must… For your game and for your soul. 

The Old Course, St Andrews 

If you can only play one course, this should be it. You might be surprised and a touch disappointed if you’ve played the likes of Pebble Beach, because St Andrews is unassuming and much less majestic. 

But play a few rounds here, and you’ll come to love its every subtle curve and the undeniable air of history that floats around, despite the modernities. No matter your skill level, it’s playable and enjoyable, and the best part is, it remains a public golf course so anyone can enjoy the thrill of playing where the greats have played before. 

The course is surprisingly open, but don’t think it’s going to be a pushover. Bunkers hide just out of sight, and curves deceive you. The greens are large and easy to hit, but it’s worth brushing up on your putting before walking onto this course! 

The Ailsa Course, Trump Turnberry 

Jaw-dropping views make this course instantly eye-catching, but the golf is pretty great too! It’s worth noting upfront that it’s a walking-only course, but we can’t even be upset about that, for the scenery is too stunning to miss as you zoom around on a golf cart. 

There are no poor holes on this course, so come prepared for a fight of a round (in the best possible way). Every shot demands focus and attention—even more so if the wind is flicking off the water and coming back at you. 

Generous fairways make it easy to stay on course, but you’ll have to contend with the natural scenery, around which the course is masterfully designed. Don’t miss the chance to grab a selfie by the lighthouse on hole 9! 

Kingsbarns Golf Links, St Andrews 

Kingsbarn is every bit as beautiful as the other courses we’ve already mentioned, but it’s also an excellent option for beginner and junior golfers. For all its spectacular natural splendour, the course is surprisingly gentle, with generous fairways and spacious greens, complemented by easy-to-miss rough areas. 

At every turn, you’re faced with expansive views over the North Sea, which may come with rogue winds, so be prepared. Interestingly, this course is located just 6 miles away from St Andrews, which has no sea views… So it’s well worth visiting after a round at the legend. 

Plus, the Kingsbarns Distillery is right next door, so take this opportunity to enjoy two amazing elements of Scottish culture, golf and whisky. 

Dundonald Links, Ayrshire 

This modern-day links course features all the classic things that make a course a true links layout. Open fairways and wide greens make it seem easy, but don’t discount the things you can’t see from the tee—contoured, sloping putting surfaces with tiers to add to the challenge. 

Burns, bunkers, and brush jump out at you along the way, so you’ll need to employ your best powers of concentration to get a good score here. Don’t assume this course is less enjoyable because it doesn’t feature ocean views—the gameplay is excellent and well worth a round. 

Balgownie Links, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club 

There’s plenty of history on this course. Established in 1780, it’s the 8th oldest golf course in the world, so ticking this one off your bucket list is a satisfying moment. Like most great Scottish courses, it’s a links-style course with an out-and-back layout. 

It’s another course with gorgeous views over the water. The front nine run through dunes alongside the coast, and the back nine are played higher up, looking out over the sea. Pathways zig-zag across the rough landscape, making for a beautiful experience in a wild and rough landscape. 

Championship Course, Carnoustie Golf Links 

Carnoustie might be built on flat ground, but it’s a surprisingly tough course. With a superb array of holes, and stretching to a length of just over 6,400 yards from the shortest tees, you should come prepared for a test here. 

This one might not be a good choice for new golfers, but experienced players will relish the challenge. Note that if you’re looking for a course with breathtaking views, this one is NOT it—but if you’re looking for a great round, you’ll enjoy it here. 

Castle Stuart Golf Links, Cabot Highlands 

Don’t be confused about the location of this course—although it’s owned by Cabot, the same owner of iconic courses like Cabot Cape Breton Cabot Saint Lucia, it’s nestled firmly in the Scottish Highlands of Inverness. 

Interestingly, this course is built on farmlands along the Moray Firth coastline, with a wide open view over the water. It’s a course full of character, and golfers will enjoy every moment on this course that’s suited to most levels of ability. 

A second course is currently in planning, to be designed around the 400-year-old castle standing on the grounds. The new course is expected to open for play in 2024. 

Conclusion 

Whether you’ve just moved to the country, have been here for a while but are looking for a new hobby, or you’re considering making Scotland your home, you can’t separate the country and the culture from golf. 

The sheer beauty of the best golf courses in Scotland make them well worth a visit even if you’re just there for the food or the whisky! But if you do enjoy a good round and the Scottish countryside, these golf courses are must-visits for expats and visitors alike. 

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