St Andrews – The Old Course The Sacred Ground Where Golf Was Born
Founded in 1552, St Andrews is officially the oldest golf course in the world and regarded as the "Home of Golf." Nestled in the historic coastal town of St Andrews, the Old Course is a globally revered pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts. This legendary links course features iconic landmarks such as the Swilcan Bridge and the infamous Road Hole. Despite its prestige, it maintains a degree of public accessibility, though tee times must be reserved well in advance. The Old Course has hosted The Open Championship 30 times and remains a symbol of the game's origins and enduring legacy.
Muirfield – East Lothian A Masterclass in Tradition and Precision
Home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Muirfield is one of the most exclusive and historic links courses in the world. Established in 1744, it offers a refined layout known for its fairness and meticulous conditioning. The course has hosted numerous Open Championships and other prestigious events, including the Women’s British Open. With its immaculate design and sea breeze challenges, Muirfield provides a pure test of golf rooted in centuries-old tradition.
Royal Dornoch – Championship Course Wild Beauty in the Scottish Highlands
Tucked away in the remote Highlands, Royal Dornoch dates back to 1877 and is widely considered one of the finest and most natural links courses in the world. Its rugged charm and sweeping vistas across the Dornoch Firth offer a golfing experience that is both exhilarating and serene. Despite its isolation, it consistently ranks among the world’s top courses. The Championship Course is known for its domed greens, strategic bunkering, and pure, unspoiled beauty.
Trump Turnberry – Ailsa Course Clifftop Majesty with Championship Prestige
Set along the dramatic Ayrshire coast, the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry has undergone a stunning transformation following its 2016 redesign. With views over the Firth of Clyde and the iconic Turnberry Lighthouse, the course is as visually striking as it is challenging. A four-time host of The Open, Turnberry’s blend of history and contemporary elegance makes it one of Scotland’s most captivating venues for championship golf.
Carnoustie – Championship Course The Ultimate Test of Golfing Nerve
Known globally as one of the toughest courses in championship golf, Carnoustie challenges even the most seasoned players. Established in 1850 in Angus, its narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable coastal winds make for a stern examination of skill and mental fortitude. It has hosted The Open Championship eight times and remains a mecca for those seeking to conquer a truly demanding links course.
Kingsbarns Golf Links A Modern Classic on the North Sea Shore
Though only opened in 2000, Kingsbarns has quickly earned its place among Scotland's golfing elite. Located near St Andrews, the course features sweeping sea views and a fluid design that feels timeless. Known for its playability and welcoming layout, Kingsbarns co-hosts the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and is often praised for its impeccable conditioning and thoughtful routing along the rugged coastline.
Gleneagles – The King’s Course Parkland Grandeur in a Five-Star Estate
Opened in 1919, the King’s Course at Gleneagles combines luxury with a regal golfing experience. Designed by James Braid, the course features heather-lined fairways, gently rolling hills, and stunning Perthshire landscapes. Gleneagles, also home to the PGA Centenary Course (host of the 2014 Ryder Cup), is more than just a course—it is a world-renowned resort offering impeccable service, accommodation, and leisure facilities.
North Berwick – West Links Historic Quirk and Coastal Charm
Dating back to 1832, North Berwick’s West Links is one of the oldest continually played courses in the world. The course offers a charming blend of traditional links golf with unique architectural features, such as the famous "Redan" hole. Located along the East Lothian coast, the views across the Firth of Forth complement the distinctive layout that has influenced course designs globally.
Castle Stuart Golf Links Elegance and Drama Above the Moray Firth
Located just outside Inverness, Castle Stuart is a modern links course with panoramic views over the Moray Firth. Opened in 2009, it was designed with dramatic elevation changes, broad fairways, and artistic bunkering. Despite its youth, Castle Stuart has hosted multiple Scottish Opens and is lauded for its accessibility and visual storytelling throughout the round. It seamlessly balances strategic challenge with breathtaking Scottish scenery.
Cruden Bay Golf Club Untamed Dunes and Enchanting Design
Founded in 1899, Cruden Bay offers a distinctly wild and romantic links experience in Aberdeenshire. The course is carved into towering dunes and features blind shots, elevated tees, and undulating fairways that create a truly unique round. Revered for its originality and charm, Cruden Bay provides a whimsical, almost otherworldly experience that harks back to the golden age of golf design.