Golf in Scotland: The Ultimate Bucket List Trip
For golfers, Scotland isn’t just a destination — it’s a pilgrimage. Known as the home of golf, Scotland offers centuries-old links courses, dramatic coastal views, and a pure, traditional golfing experience you can’t find anywhere else in the world.
Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another round, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to about golf in Scotland – the ultimate bucket list trip
Why golf in Scotland Is Every Golfer’s Dream
1. Historic Courses With Legends Built In
Scotland is home to some of the oldest and most iconic courses in the world. Walking these fairways means stepping into the same turf where the game’s history was written.
2. Stunning Coastal Landscapes
Towering dunes, rugged cliffs, rolling greens, and sweeping North Sea views create a backdrop unlike any other golf destination.
3. Links-Style Play You Can’t Replicate
The firm fairways, unpredictable winds, pot bunkers, and natural terrain give you a test of golf that rewards creativity and course management.
Top Bucket List Courses in Scotland
1. St Andrews – The Old Course
Golf in Scotland is not complete without the Old Course. With the Swilcan Bridge, Road Hole, and 600 years of history, it’s the crown jewel of any bucket list.
Pro Tip: The ballot system is your best shot at playing the Old Course unless you book through an authorized tour operator.
2. Royal Dornoch
Remote, pure, breathtaking — Royal Dornoch offers one of the most memorable links experiences on Earth. With two 18 hole courses, the Championship course was ranked #2 in the world by Golf Digest.
3. Turnberry – Ailsa Course
With postcard views of the iconic lighthouse and rolling coastal dunes, Turnberry is equal parts beauty and beast. This is the epitome of golf in Scotland.
4. Kingsbarns Golf Links
A modern classic built right on the North Sea, Kingsbarns pairs world-class design with dramatic Scottish scenery. Many golfers rank it alongside St Andrews in their top three.
5. Carnoustie Golf Links
Known as one of the toughest tests in championship golf, Carnoustie will challenge every part of your game — especially when the wind picks up.
6. Muirfield
Home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, Muirfield delivers a traditional, strategic links layout with near-perfect conditioning.
How to Plan the Ultimate Scotland Golf Trip
Best Time to Go
May through September offers the best weather and longest daylight, giving you chances to squeeze in 36 holes or even a sunset round.
Booking Tee Times
Plan at least 6–12 months in advance, especially for St Andrews, Muirfield, and Royal Dornoch. Consider a tour package if you want guaranteed access.
Where to Stay
St Andrews: Perfect if you’re playing a North East itinerary.👉 Search Old Course Hotel accomodations on Expedia →
Edinburgh: Great for East Lothian (Muirfield, North Berwick). 👉 Search Edinburgh Hotel accomodations on Expedia →
Dornoch: Quiet, scenic base for Highlands golf. 👉 Search Royal Dornoch Hotel accomodations on Expedia →
Troon/Ayrshire: Ideal for Turnberry, Prestwick, and Royal Troon. 👉 Search Troon Hotel accomodations on Expedia →
Must-Have Experiences Beyond the Course
Your Scotland trip shouldn’t be all golf. Be sure to add in:
A whisky tasting at a Highland or Speyside distillery
Exploring Edinburgh Castle or Stirling Castle
Visiting local pubs with live Scottish music
Touring the rugged Isle of Skye or North Coast 500
These experiences elevate the trip from great to unforgettable.
Example 7-Day Scotland Golf Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Edinburgh → Play North Berwick
Day 2: Play Muirfield → Stay in Edinburgh
Day 3: Drive to St Andrews → Play the New or Jubilee Course
Day 4: Play St Andrews Old Course
Day 5: Play Kingsbarns
Day 6: Drive to the Highlands → Play Royal Dornoch
Day 7: Fly home from Inverness or return to Edinburgh
Final Thoughts
A golf trip to Scotland is more than a vacation — it’s a bucket-list journey every golfer should experience at least once. From the ancient links of St Andrews to the rugged beauty of the Highlands, Scotland delivers a blend of history, culture, and pure golf you can’t get anywhere else in the world.
Whether you’re planning with friends, family, or treating yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Scotland promises rounds you’ll talk about forever.
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