East Coast vs West Coast Scotland Golf Tours: Which Is Right for You?

When planning a Scottish golf holiday, one question comes up early: East Coast or West Coast?

Both offer world-class links golf. Both carry Open Championship heritage. Yet the experience feels different from the moment you arrive.

If you are choosing between East coast Scotland golf tours and West coast Scotland golf packages, this guide will help clarify the decision.

The Personality of the East Coast

The East Coast, particularly Fife and Angus, is golf’s spiritual heartland.

St Andrews sits at the centre, supported by Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, Dumbarnie and Crail. Courses are tightly grouped, making travel efficient. The terrain tends to be firmer, the fairways running fast in summer, the turf closely linked to the traditions of links golf.

Signature East Coast courses include:

• Old Course, St Andrews
• Castle Course, St Andrews
• Carnoustie Championship Course
• Kingsbarns Golf Links
• Dumbarnie Links
• Crail Golfing Society
• Lundin Links

The atmosphere is vibrant. Towns are walkable. Restaurants and pubs sit within steps of historic clubhouses.

Accommodation frequently includes:

• Old Course Hotel
• Rusacks St Andrews
• Marine North Berwick
• Fairmont St Andrews

Wind patterns here tend to be steady rather than severe, though conditions always vary. For first-time visitors, the East Coast often feels iconic and accessible.

The Drama of the West Coast

The West Coast, particularly Ayrshire and the Mull of Kintyre, delivers raw theatre.

Here you find:

• Turnberry (Ailsa Course)
• Royal Troon
• Prestwick Golf Club
• Western Gailes
• Machrihanish Golf Club

Fairways weave between towering dunes. Sea views dominate. On clear days at Machrihanish, the opening tee shot over the Atlantic remains one of golf’s most stirring starts.

Weather can be more changeable. Winds can be stronger. The landscape feels expansive and slightly wilder.

Accommodation options often include:

• Trump Turnberry Resort
• Marine Troon
• Gailes Hotel
• Abbotsford Hotel
• Piersland House Hotel

For repeat visitors, the West Coast offers depth and fewer crowds.

Travel Routes from North America

Accessibility often shapes the decision.

East Coast itineraries:

• Fly into Edinburgh
• Short transfers to St Andrews or Fife
• Compact driving distances between courses

West Coast itineraries:

• Fly into Glasgow
• 45–60 minutes to Troon or Turnberry
• Longer scenic drives to Machrihanish

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow offer strong transatlantic connectivity from major US and Canadian hubs. For multi-region trips, flying into one and out of the other works well.

Ideal Trip Durations

For 5–7 night stays, the East Coast offers exceptional course density with minimal travel time.

For 8–10 night trips, combining East and West provides contrast and variety. Many itineraries begin in St Andrews before moving to Ayrshire.

If you are focused purely on the best region for Scotland golf as a first visit, the East Coast edges ahead for its concentration of iconic venues. For those seeking a second or third trip, the West Coast can feel more immersive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the East Coast easier for first-time visitors?
Yes, due to course density and walkable towns such as St Andrews.

Are West Coast courses more difficult?
They can feel more exposed to wind, but difficulty depends on conditions.

Can you combine both coasts in one trip?
Absolutely. Many tours split time between St Andrews and Ayrshire.

Which region has more Open Championship venues?
Both coasts feature Open rota courses, including St Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal Troon and Turnberry.

Choosing the Right Scottish Golf Experience

Both coasts deliver unforgettable links golf. The decision rests on atmosphere, travel rhythm and personal preference.

ProScot Golf Tours designs tailored East coast Scotland golf tours and West coast Scotland golf packages for American and Canadian travellers. Whether you favour St Andrews’ historic fairways or Turnberry’s coastal drama, we will build an itinerary that fits your group perfectly.