Welcome to the seventh edition of the Destination Golf Guide to Scotland’s Top 100 Courses.
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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 2023 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.
* Please note that due to the exclusivity of Loch Lomond, Renaissance and Archerfield, we have decided to exclude these courses from the guide. If, however, you receive an invitation to play one, drop everything and go.
And a special mention of thanks to SIGTOA, Wilkinson Golf, Belhaven Brewery, Glenmuir and our Editors Choices for 2023:
South West / Ayrshire: Irvine – Western Gailes – Kilmarnock Barassie – Prestwick.
Islay: Machrie.
Perthshire & Hearthlands: Carnoustie – The Dukes – Dumbarnie – Montrose – Blairgowrie – Forfar – Downfield.
South East / East Lothian: Royal Musselburgh – Glen – Longniddry.
North East / Aberdeen: Trump International Aberdeen – Newburgh on Ythan – Peterhead.
Highlands / Inverness: Muir of Ord – James Braid Trail – Highlands Golf Escapes.
To view all of our Golf Guides, visit: www.destinationgolf.travel or follow our travel on social media @DGgolfguide
Kevin Markham – Scotland Editor.
Destination Golf Media Ltd.