Scotland may be the home of golf, but that doesn’t mean every month offers the same experience. Weather, daylight hours, course conditions, and availability all play a part when deciding the best time of year to golf in Scotland. Whether you’re planning to play the Old Course in July or explore hidden Highland gems in spring, timing can be the key to a perfect trip. In this guide, we break down what each season offers—so you can plan the best golfing holiday based on your preferences, group size, and budget. With insights from the team at ProScot Golf, we’ll help you find the sweet spot between sunshine, savings, and tee-time availability.
Spring (April – May) Fresh Fairways & Fewer Crowds
- Weather: Mild, with occasional rain. Average temperatures: 8–14°C.
- Benefits:
- Courses reopen in excellent condition after winter maintenance
- Fewer tourists = more availability for tee times and hotels
- Lower shoulder-season prices
- Top Picks:
- Gullane, North Berwick, and Elie on the east coast
- Royal Dornoch and Castle Stuart in the Highlands
Why Go – Ideal for experienced golfers who want excellent playing conditions and more freedom to explore without peak-season pricing.
Summer (June – August) Peak Play & Long Days
- Weather: Warmest months, occasional rain. Avg. temps: 14–20°C.
- Benefits:
- Up to 18 hours of daylight—play until nearly 10pm!
- Full access to all courses and club facilities
- Prime time for festivals and sightseeing (especially in Edinburgh)
- Top Picks:
- St Andrews (Old Course, New Course, Kingsbarns)
- Carnoustie, Trump Turnberry, and Gleneagles
Why Go – Perfect for first-timers and groups wanting to play Scotland’s marquee courses with maximum daylight and activity.
Autumn (September – October) Golden Hours & Great Value
- Weather: Crisp and cooler; stable early autumn, wetter later. Avg. temps: 10–15°C.
- Benefits:
- Courses still in top condition
- Spectacular autumn scenery (especially inland and Highlands)
- Off-peak pricing returns
- Top Picks:
- Nairn and Royal Dornoch for foliage and fewer crowds
- East Lothian’s courses for drier late-season rounds
Why Go – For repeat travellers or couples seeking beauty, tranquillity, and excellent value on premium courses.
Winter (November – March) Quiet Links & Hidden Opportunities
- Weather: Cold, wet, shorter days. Avg. temps: 1–8°C.
- Benefits:
- Major price reductions on accommodation and green fees
- Many links courses remain open
- Great for a quick off-season getaway with light golf
- Top Picks:
- Crail, Kingsbarns, North Berwick (links courses with good drainage)
- Stay at Ness Walk or Marine Hotel for spa and comfort
Why Go – For seasoned links lovers not afraid of a waterproof and those chasing budget-friendly, crowd-free experiences.
Special Events to Consider
- The Open Championship: Held in July; book 12 months ahead if planning to attend or play nearby
- St Andrews Old Course Ballot: Available most of the year, but demand spikes in summer
- Festival Season: Edinburgh festivals (August) can limit availability and raise prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the absolute best month to golf in Scotland?
A: June offers the best combination of weather, daylight, and course condition. September is a great alternative with fewer crowds.
Q: Are Scottish courses open year-round?
A: Most links courses stay open all year, though inland parkland courses may close or restrict play in winter.
Q: Can I play the Old Course anytime?
A: It’s open almost year-round, but closed on Sundays and during select winter dates. Summer demand is high—book early or enter the daily ballot.
Q: Is spring a good season for golf in Scotland?
A: Yes—especially April and May. You’ll enjoy excellent conditions without the summer crowds or premium prices.
Scotland is a year-round golfing destination, but the best experience depends on what you’re after—sunshine, solitude, or savings. Let ProScot Golf help you plan the perfect trip at the perfect time. Contact us today for expert advice, guaranteed tee times, and custom itineraries built around your ideal season.
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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 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 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 moreThank 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.
Read moreWhat a perfect vacation with 5 beautiful days of golf. Nicola was great. She ensured we were in the Old Course balloting-system and that we were also checked in for the Old Course singles daily lottery. I was fortunate to secure two opportunities to play the Old Course. Nicola went out her way many times, including traveling back to pick me up from another course to ensure I made my Old Course check in time. She also meet up with me on the 18th tee to follow me in while taking pictures of a very memorable experience. ProScotGolf provides exceptional customer service and value. I will be planning my next trip soon.
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