Scotland is the cradle of golf—a country where rolling dunes, sea spray, and storied clubhouses set the stage for unforgettable rounds. But with over 550 courses to choose from, selecting the very best can be a challenge. That’s where we come in. We’ve handpicked Scotland’s best golf courses—12 must-play fairways that combine historical prestige, stunning scenery, and exceptional playability. Each course on this list is available as part of a ProScot Golf tour, ensuring you not only play world-renowned layouts, but enjoy the luxury, access, and seamless planning that come with our tailor-made packages. Whether you’re chasing Open Championship pedigree or discovering hidden gems, this list covers the best golf courses in Scotland—and your next dream round.
1. St Andrews Old Course
Known as the “Home of Golf,” the Old Course is where every serious golfer dreams of teeing off. Rich in history and challenge, it’s a rite of passage—and ProScot can help you secure that elusive tee time.
2. Kingsbarns Golf Links
A modern classic just outside St Andrews, Kingsbarns offers dramatic sea views, undulating terrain, and an elite layout that’s hosted the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. It’s a must for any Fife itinerary.
3. Carnoustie Golf Links
One of the toughest tests in championship golf, Carnoustie has hosted The Open multiple times and is known for its fierce finish and historic fairways. A dream (and a challenge) for low handicappers.
4. Muirfield
Located in East Lothian, Muirfield is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and has hosted The Open on 16 occasions. Exclusive, strategic, and steeped in tradition, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Royal Dornoch
Often rated among the world’s top 10 courses, Royal Dornoch blends stunning Highlands scenery with exceptional links play. The remote setting only adds to its magic—and its mystique.
6. Castle Stuart Golf Links
Set along the Moray Firth near Inverness, Castle Stuart has hosted the Scottish Open and is famed for its jaw-dropping views and elevated tee shots. It’s a must-play in the Highlands region.
7. North Berwick Golf Club (West Links)
Combining history with quirk and charm, North Berwick’s seaside layout features ancient stone walls, blind shots, and a famous redan hole. It’s fun, challenging, and unforgettable.
8. Trump Turnberry (Ailsa Course)
Recently redesigned, the Ailsa Course at Turnberry delivers championship-level golf with sweeping coastal views and luxurious surroundings. This Open venue is as dramatic as it is iconic.
9. Gleneagles (King’s Course)
Although inland, Gleneagles’ King’s Course is a beauty. Designed by James Braid, it features immaculate fairways, rolling parkland, and a majestic country estate setting.
10. Cruden Bay
A hidden gem on Scotland’s northeast coast, Cruden Bay combines quirky design, dune-swept fairways, and stunning North Sea vistas. It’s imaginative, challenging, and endlessly enjoyable.
11. Nairn Golf Club
Located in the Highlands, Nairn offers classic links play with immaculate greens and scenic coastal views. It’s also a regular host of amateur championships, and a perfect pairing with Castle Stuart.
12. Elie Golf House Club
Steeped in charm and history, Elie offers tight fairways, gorgeous views over the Firth of Forth, and a periscope in the starter’s hut. Yes, really. It’s a delightful stop just 20 minutes from St Andrews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to play these courses?
A: The ideal season runs from April to October. June and July offer the longest days, while April, May, and September provide quieter tee times and great conditions.
Q: Can I play all of these on one trip?
A: With smart planning and ProScot’s tour packages, you can absolutely create an itinerary that hits several of these iconic courses in a 7–14 day trip.
Q: Are these courses suitable for high handicappers?
A: I use my expertise (PGA Pro) to select golf courses to suit our clients with higher handicaps.
While some like Carnoustie are more challenging, many—like Elie, North Berwick, and Gleneagles—are enjoyable for all skill levels.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
A: You must start the booking process 18 – 24 Months in advance to book a package with Muirfield or St Andrews Old course.
Whether you’re chasing legendary status or simply the best views in golf, these 12 courses represent Scotland’s finest fairways. At ProScot Golf, we craft tailor-made trips that bring your dream rounds to life—stress-free and unforgettable. Contact us today to start building your personalised golf tour with guaranteed tee times and luxury accommodations.
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Excellent
John and Nicola were perfect hosts. They took care of everything and it made our trip unforgettable. Their attention to detail is incredible and everything went smoothly. We had a guaranteed tee time for the Old Course which was the centerpiece of the trip. And they were very fun and nice people to be around. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a Scottish golf vacation.
Read moreAWESOME!! Top notch course access and service from start to finish. Pro Scot Golf Tours is the ONLY way to go. Thanks John & Nicola!!
Read moreI could not imagine a better managed golf trip - everything was first class... from the transportation to the lodging to the dining. John and Nikola were an absolute joy to coordinate with. John is a knowledgeable and hilarious tour guide - our group really enjoyed his company. John was attentive, punctual, and high energy. I can't recommend ProScot enough and I hope to use their services again in the future.
Read moreShort answer: Stop looking, and hire ProScot. They're the best.
Longer answer: We recommend ProScot to everyone planning a UK/Ireland golf trip. We had three golf days over four nights in St Andrews. ProScot reserved a perfect short-term rental (all the amenities, perfect location, surprisingly low price), and secured tee times at the St Andrews Old, New, and Castle courses.
Nicola waited at Edinburgh airport for our delayed arriving flight, and drove us to St Andrews in ProScot's luxury van, with water and snacks. And even though our apartment was about a 9-iron from the First Tee, Nicola picked us up each day, took us to the practice facility and first tee box, and primed us with water and snack bars.
On the day we miscalculated the proper caddy gratuity and realized, on the first tee, that we were short on currency, Nicola raced to an ATM and sorted us out -- no questions, no fuss. Just fixing whatever needs fixing, with grace, and no stress.
When we played the Castle Course, our driver -- John -- regaled us with stories that only PGA Professionals possess, then gave us a couple incredibly useful tips at the practice facility.
After the trip we thought we had missed, or owed, an additional payment to ProScot. Nope. We had paid in full what they charged. Best value ever.
Thank you ProScott Golf Tours for an amazing time in Scotland! Five historic courses in six days including Carnoustie and the Old Course. If you are going to go to Golf’s holy land, go with a local that knows golf. Prompt, professional, informative, flexible and above all fun to be with, Nicola and John really take care of you like family. They have pre-thought about everything for your convenience, comfort and enjoyment! You are taken care of from landing to takeoff. Thank you ProScott GOLF Tours.
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