Top 10 Links Golf Courses in Scotland
Scotland, the birthplace of golf, is known for its stunning and challenging links courses. With an abundance of breathtaking landscapes and world-famous courses, golf enthusiasts flock from all corners of the globe to experience the magic and test their skills. In this article, we’re taking a journey through the best links golf courses in Scotland, which are not to be missed.
1. The Old Course at St. Andrews
No list of Scotland’s best links courses would be complete without mentioning the Old Course at St. Andrews. Known as the “Home of Golf,” this course is steeped in history and is easily one of the most famous golfing locations in the world. With large double greens, deep pot bunkers, and the iconic Swilcan Bridge, the Old Course is a truly magical experience for golfers of all skill levels.
2. Carnoustie Golf Links
Located on the east coast of Scotland, Carnoustie Golf Links is known as one of the most challenging and prestigious courses in the world. Featuring the famed Barry Burn and a series of treacherous bunkers, Carnoustie has tested the skills of the greatest golfers throughout history. This links course hosts The Open Championship, making it a must-visit for any golf lover.
3. Muirfield Golf Club
Muirfield Golf Club is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and is another regular host of The Open Championship. Known for its impeccable course design, Muirfield features two loops of nine holes, with the outward nine circling clockwise and the inward nine circling counter-clockwise. This unique configuration challenges players to navigate varying wind conditions, making for an unforgettable golfing experience.
4. Royal Troon Golf Club
Located on the west coast, Royal Troon Golf Club is one of Scotland’s most popular links courses. With its incredible coastline views and challenging layout, this course offers a balance of beauty and difficulty. The club’s signature hole, the par-3 eighth hole known as the “Postage Stamp,” is one of the shortest holes in major championship history yet considered among the toughest.
5. Turnberry (Ailsa Course)
The Ailsa Course at Turnberry is a true gem, with stunning coastal views and a rich golfing history. Having hosted four Open Championships, the Ailsa Course offers a fantastic challenge for golfers of all handicaps. The course’s lighthouse and the Ailsa Craig – a massive rock formation in the Firth of Clyde – serve as magnificent backdrops to the already picturesque setting.
6. Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Heading north, the scenic Royal Dornoch Golf Club showcases the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The course’s renowned architect, Old Tom Morris, designed a layout that perfectly blends with the surrounding landscape. Featuring challenging pot bunkers and narrow greens, Royal Dornoch provides a fair test to golfers while remaining one of Scotland’s most enjoyable links courses.
7. Kingsbarns Golf Links
Despite being a relatively new course, Kingsbarns has quickly earned its place among Scotland’s top links courses. Situated just a few miles from St. Andrews, this course effortlessly blends tradition with modern course design. With its dramatic coastline views and impeccable playing conditions, Kingsbarns offers a truly memorable golfing experience.
From historical landmarks to modern marvels, Scotland’s top links courses exemplify the best that the game of golf has to offer. Whether you’re a novice or a professional, these courses are sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years to come. So start planning your trip and book your tee times – Scotland’s finest links courses await!
