Destination Golf Scotland 2021
Welcome to the fifth edition of the Destination Golf Guide to Scotland’s Top 100 Courses.
Click to launch digital edition: https://joom.ag/Ua4I
It was from Scotland that golf spread to the rest of the world. It was a gift that we are grateful for and today this planet of ours boasts in the region of 34,000 golf courses. Over 600 of them are here in Scotland. The greatest early designers came from here – names such as Old Tom Morris (1821-1908), Willie Park Jr (1864-1925), James Braid (1870- 1950), and Donald Ross (1872-1948) spring to mind – and their legacy can be found on every fairway you walk because their creations helped to influence the generation of designers that followed. ‘The Home of Golf’ says it all.
In our 2021 guide you will find 100 exceptional courses. Some are clustered together to the point they run into each other, while others sit miles from anywhere, clinging to a peninsula or tucked away on the islands that sprinkle the coastline like confetti. Rich pickings are to be had and your toughest decision will be choosing where to start.
Scotland boasts six excellent golfing regions. I have my favourites, just like any golfer, but wherever I’ve played I have always been thrilled by the courses this country has to offer – indeed, many of them don’t even appear in this Top 100, emphasising the country’s quality in depth.
Scotland is not only about golf. It is a stunningly beautiful place to spend time and explore, and it boasts a proud and rich history… and even richer whisky. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to combine all of these on one visit and sometimes on one course, so use this guide to map out the perfect golf trip. The people of Scotland will welcome you with open arms.
With special thanks to Catriona Matthew, Paul Lawrie, Sandy Lyle and our partners for 2021:
SOUTH WEST: Irvine GC – Western Gailes GC – Kilmarnock Barassie GC – Troon (Old/Portland) – Prestwick GC – Machrie GC – Southerness GC – Marine & Lawn Hotel (Troon).
PERTHSHIRE & HEARTLANDS: Wilkinson Golf – Kingdom Drones – Hawkswood House – Scotscraig GC – Forfar GC – Blairgowrie GC – Carnoustie GC – Marine & Lawn Hotel (Rusacks).
SOUTH EAST: North Berwick GC – Gullane GC – Glen GC – Kilspindie GC – Royal Musselburgh GC – Scotlands Golf Coast – Marine & Lawn Hotel (North Berwick).
NORTH EAST: Newburgh on Ythan GC.
HIGHLANDS: Muir of Ord GC – James Braid Golf Trail – Golspie GC – Highland Golf Escapes.
Kevin Markham – Scotland Editor.
Destination Golf Media Ltd.