Practice your swing against the beautiful backdrop of the Old Course at St. Andrews, the home of golf, and tee off in the country that started it all and still boasts the gold standard for golf courses around the world. The Macdonald Rusacks Hotel is within putting distance of the 18th hole.
At Macdonald Hotels, our Scottish heritage is in our name. Stay at any of our 13 hotels in Scotland, a land of big cities and beautiful countryside, and you’ll quickly find there’s so much to see and do. The landscape’s full of drama and unspoilt beauty – the perfect playground if you like wild, open spaces.
There are hundreds of years of history and tradition in Scotland, from ancient castles to mythical creatures. Our hotels in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are smart and sophisticated places to stay, so you can explore, shop and enjoy the famous Scots hospitality. It’s little wonder that cities in Scotland rank amongst the top destinations for European city breaks and you can find the best they have to offer from our hotels.
For golf lovers, Scotland is paradise. With over 500 courses including Spey Valley, one of the finest courses Scotland has to offer, you can get in 18 holes from a number of our hotels. Once you’ve finished your round, retreat to the bar at your Macdonald Hotel and celebrate accordingly: with a dram of malt whisky.
Macdonald Rusacks Hotel – Pilmour, The Links, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9JQ
St Andrews is a must-visit destination: from being a Scottish setting for Royal romance, to its famous West Sands beach which was immortalized in the Oscar-winning movie Chariots of Fire, it’s Cathedral, aquarium and boutiques. Oh, and did we mention golf? Macdonald Rusacks Hotel is within a sand wedge of the 18th hole of the world-famous Old Course. Stylishly remodeled on a golfing theme, Macdonald Rusacks Hotel offers luxurious accommodation occupied by some of the great names in the game’s history. Unquestionably Scotland’s greatest golfing hotel, we even have a dedicated Golf Concierge so you won’t miss a thing.
Macdonald Rusacks Hotel is delighted to bring you Rocca Restaurant, our three AA Rosette restaurant which serves delectable Scottish dishes using the finest produce from local suppliers so you can enjoy exquisite dishes prepared by our team of passionate chefs. For a more relaxed dining experience, visit One Under Gastro Pub, where you can catch all the live sport while enjoying a quiet drink or a delicious meal. R Bar is an elegant spot to unwind with friends. Enjoy a glass of Champagne or try out our excellent whisky selection while taking in one of the most famous views in sport.
Whether you’re in St Andrews to play golf, attend a business event or wedding – Rusacks Hotel lets you do so in style, and with beautiful surroundings.
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Stylishly remodelled and steeped in tradition
Scottish seaside setting
Great location for history, culture and family activites
Overlooks world’s most famous golf course
Complimentary Wifi
Dedicated Golf Concierge to assist
Three AA Rosette restaurant
Golf coaching packages
Pets welcome
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Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa,
North Berwick
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The Macdonald Marine Hotel in North Berwick is renowned for its beautiful coastal setting and glorious 19th century Victorian architecture. Situated on the East Coast of Scotland, our North Berwick Hotel has 83 unique bedrooms to choose from – a world of four star luxury.
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Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa boasts extensive conference facilities and a luxurious spa complex making it the ideal base for business stays as well as leisure breaks. Our North Berwick hotel is also home to the award-winning Craigleith restaurant, where you can enjoy the finest Scottish cuisine in a very Scottish setting, with views of the Firth of Forth. Our Macdonald North Berwick hotel is also the perfect choice for golfers, who can choose from 20 championship courses in the surrounding area.
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As Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa is within easy distance to Edinburgh by car or rail, you have the option of both the quiet tranquillity of the seaside and the busy tourist attractions the city has to offer, including Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Catering for a wide range of functions and occasions such as weddings and business events, Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious experience in a beautiful coastal setting.
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Stunning coastal views
Award-winning thermal spa
Close to West Links Golf Course
83 individually styled bedrooms
30 minutes outside Edinburgh
50 minutes from Edinburgh Airport
Vital Health and Wellbeing Club
Award-winning restaurant
Complimentary Wifi
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https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Macdonald_Marine_Hotel_and_Spa_Double_Room.jpg360857Midlands Golferhttps://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpgMidlands Golfer2017-02-05 20:02:042017-06-13 18:52:05Macdonald Hotel
The Green Hotel Golf and Leisure Resort is situated in the picturesque town of Kinross, surrounded by 5000 acres of beautiful south Perthshire countryside. Ideally located within central Scotland, Edinburgh and Perth are just a short drive away.
The resorts offers a choice of two hotels each with their own distinct character: The Green is the more traditional historic property and just across the village green, The Windlestrae has a more contemporary feel.
On offer is a super range of facilities, including 93 bedrooms across both hotels, landscaped gardens, a leisure club (with 20 metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, jacuzzi, steam and sauna), Beauty Room Spa, a choice of 3 restaurants, 2 bars and a range of private meeting rooms. The resort has its own two fabulous onsite parkland golf courses: The Bruce and The Montgomery. Both are 18 hole courses, mature and well-maintained with wide tree-lined fairways and well-kept greens, providing excellent examples of Scottish parkland golf with the added bonus of magnificent views across beautiful Loch Leven and of the West Lomond Hills.
Resident staying at the resort receive fantastic discounted green fees. This area of Scotland is of course a golfer’s paradise, with easy accessibility to many of Scotland’s renowned courses including Gleneagles, Carnoustie, Blairgowrie and almost 100 more courses within an hour’s drive.
The hotel is only 45 minutes from St Andrews and other renowned coastal links courses.
As well as golf, the area offers a wealth of activities to enjoy in very beautiful countryside, including many fabulous walks, fishing, boating, canoeing and gliding – all available around the stunning Loch Leven nature reserve and Heritage Trail, just a short walk from the hotel. Also nearby guests can enjoy falconry, clay pigeon shooting, motor sports at Knockhill and horse riding.
Onsite at the resort, there is also has a super Olympic standard curling rink and a very unique music venue, “Backstage at The Green” which often has on offer a great range of original bands and the very best of the tributes, something certainly different to enjoy during your stay!
The Green Hotel – The Green Hotel Golf and Leisure Resort, Kinross, Perthshire KY13 8AS
COME AND ENJOY THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR YOUR SCOTTISH GETAWAY!
There truly is something different for every guest to enjoy during their day
TWO GREAT COURSES ON YOUR DOORSTEP, 200 MORE WITHIN AN HOURS DRIVE
Kinross offers two courses: The Bruce and The Montgomery. If you come across a group or society that has spent the day playing both courses, ask the golfers which course they enjoyed the most. Some will say “The Bruce” while others will say “The Montgomery.” The best way to answer the question for yourself is to play them both; come for the day or take advantage of one our value-laden stay-and-play packages.
Both courses are mature and well-maintained and provide excellent examples of Scottish parkland golf with the added bonus of magnificent views of Loch Leven and the West Lomond Hills. The owners renovated and improved both courses three years ago and the work has significantly added to the playability and enjoyment.
Also enjoy any of the 200 other courses, all within an hours drive, including: St Andrews, Carnoustie, Muirfield, North Berwick, Gullane, Gleneagles and many more.
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Central Scotland location just 40 minutes from Edinburgh, 20 minutes from Perth and 60 minutes from Glasgow
FACILITIES
93 Bedrooms
3 Restaurants
Bars
Great Leisure Facilities
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Stay and Play Golf Packages from only £89 pp*
Includes 1 night dinner, BB and round of golf on your choice of course.
Special rates available for longer stays
(*based on twin occupancy)
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Screen-Shot-2017-02-05-at-17.46.25.png7962804Midlands Golferhttps://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpgMidlands Golfer2017-02-05 18:58:362017-06-13 18:52:26The Green Hotel
Set within the beautiful Fife coastal area known as the East Neuk, with only a 15 minute drive to St Andrews, the Old Manor Hotel in Lundin Links enjoys a commanding hilltop position, with panoramic views over Lundin Golf Course and across the Firth of Forth.
The Old Manor Hotel is the perfect location for your golfing holiday.
Fife has a huge selection of world class golf courses and the Old Manor Hotel sits within 20 minutes of most of them with stunning views over Lundin Golf Course and the Firth of Forth. We are the perfect location for a golfing break.
23 bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities and can offer our guests a choice of room styles; standard twin and double, sea view rooms, superior rooms and for those special romantic occasions a Four Poster bedroom.
Our Seaview Restaurant is open to both residents and non-residents. With stunning panoramic views and a lovely atmosphere, a wide choice of locally sourced freshly prepared dishes are offered for dinner.
If you’d like to arrange a break for yourself or your party please drop us an email at reception@theoldmanorhotel.co.uk with the dates you’re thinking of and we’ll get back to you with some options.
Alternatively give us a call on the number below
The Old Manor Hotel – Leven Road, Lundin Links KY8 6AJ
The Old Manor Hotel boasts being family-owned and is located in one of the most scenic areas of this glorious corner of Scotland in the Kingdom of Fife. The hotel sits in the splendid East Neuk which is situated just a short 15 minute drive outside of the beautiful university town of St Andrews, commanding a superb view of the coastline and surrounding areas.
The views from the hilltop setting mean guests staying at the hotel enjoy panoramic views over the Firth of Forth and the splendid Lundin Golf Course. Our hotel is ideally situated close to so many wonderful places and where there is so much to do and enjoy.
Dining in Glorious Settings
When it comes to dining our Seaview Restaurant is great for families. The tables are well spaced, the view is amazing and you can watch ships passing up and down the Firth of Forth as well as the occasional oil rig.
We pride ourselves in serving only the best regional produce in all our restaurants which guarantees you get to savour many of Fife’s culinary delights in lovely settings and all of which are served to perfection. We also have an excellent childrens menu.
The Ideal Golfing Base
For golfing enthusiasts who want to play a couple of rounds while the family visit one of Fife’s many attractions The Old Manor Hotel is perfect doesn’t get much better with the best golf courses being located just a stone’s throw away from our hotel whether it’s the Lundin Links right through to the home of golf in St Andrews.
A Glorious Coastline That Boasts the Best Beaches Ever!
If you are not familiar with the region, then be prepared to discover some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet! Miles of clean bays, coves and stretches of sand are just a short distance away for your to enjoy and explore. This makes staying at The Old Manor Hotel an ideal choice for a family summer holiday in a glorious setting steeped in natural beauty.
Children of All Ages are Warmly Welcomed
Being a family run hotel, we welcome children of all ages and offer guests a spacious Family Suite which comprises of a twin room together with a double room and shared bathroom. It’s the perfect option for families travelling with two children who can share a room.
For families travelling to Fife with 3 or 4 children, we have three en-suite rooms available which are an ideal choice. Children under the age of 12 stay with us free of charge with only meals having to be paid for (this includes breakfast)! We offer all young guests their own menu with a great choice of popular things that kids love to eat!
The Perfect Base for an Enjoyable Stay
The great thing about making The Old Manor Hotel your base for your visit to Fife, is it’s ideal location whether you are travelling as a family, as a couple or single person. Exploring the region whether it’s the pretty coastal villages and harbours or inland towns and villages of which there are many, our hotel is the perfect gateway to them all.
To find out more about our lovely hotel and how we can help you enjoy your stay in Fife a more memorable experience all round, please do not hesitate in getting in touch with us either by phone or by email today.
[/full_width
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/the-old-manor-hotel-overhead-view.jpg5401600Midlands Golferhttps://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpgMidlands Golfer2017-02-05 18:17:472017-06-13 18:52:26The Old Manor Hotel
ENJOYING UNINTERRUPTED VIEWS OF THE CARRICK AND SCOTTISH COUNTRYSIDE, MAYBOLE IS AN ATTRACTIVE NINE HOLE PARKLAND COURSE IN SOUTH AYRSHIRE
A Quaint 9 Hole course located in the Kingdom of Carrick, Maybole Golf course offers unrestricted views of the regions southern uplands and the Carrick Hills.
Located in the gently rolling landscape of the town’s Memorial Park, Maybole Golf courses offers few hazards and generous fairways, making it the perfect course for beginners or those looking for a more relaxing game of golf.
Golf South Ayrshire operates 8 superb courses throughout the region. Each course boasts its own unique history, challenges and stunning Scottish scenery, alongside illustrious neighbours Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.
With a variety of different types to choose from ranging from links to parkland, each of our courses has its own individual character and varying degrees of difficulty, meaning that they have something to suit every level of golfer. These include three classic James Braid designs, the 4th most difficult course in Scotland at Troon or a leisurely stroll in the Carrick Hills.
Not only that, each of our fantastic courses are maintained to the same high standards, ensuring no matter which course your guest plays, we’re sure they’ll be impressed!
With 8 courses to choose from, Golf South Ayrshire offers more courses with more choice than any other provider in Ayrshire.
Each of the courses are maintained to the same high standards as many in the region but can be played for a fraction of the cost.
We have a number of different packages – each tailored to suit individual golfing needs.
Follow in the footsteps of world famous designer and course architect James Braid or retrace Jack Nicklaus’ famous legacy playing in Troon.
If golf isn’t the main purpose of your trip, or your would like the flexibility to play some of the other fantastic courses in Ayrshire, maybe our 3, 5 or 7 day unlimited golf passes will meet your needs.
Unlimited Golf
.
A great way to enjoy all the golf you want from April – October.
.
The 3, 5 or 7 day tickets offer fantastic value with unlimited golf per day on all 8 Golf South Ayrshire courses, without restriction. Available from the clubhouses or Starter on the first day of play, the 3 and 5 day ticket can be used within 7 days and the 7 day ticket can be used within 14 days.
Braid Trail
.
Follow in the footsteps of World respected course architect, James Braid with this fantastic golfing experience (Available April – October)
.
This fantastic golfing trail includes 3 rounds of golf which can be played over 3 days at Belleisle Park (2 courses) and Girvan Golf Course.
If time is tight, why not take advantages of our mini package which gives you the flexibility to choose your ideal round combination to be played over 2 days?
Troon Links Experience
.
Enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. (Available April – October)
.
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus’ and enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. This golf package includes Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton.
If time is tight, why not take advantage of our mini package, which gives you flexibility to choose your ideal 2 round combination?
Guaranteed Visitor Times
.
Up to 40 tee times per day are reserved for visitors which are bookable up to 12 months in advance.
.
We all know plans can change, especially when organising a holiday. Your reservation can be moved at no extra cost, up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
A DELIGHTFUL PARKLAND COURSE SET IN THE HEART OF BURN’S COUNTRY IN SOUTH AYRSHIRE
A delightful parkland course. Playing here you are aware that you are in the heart of ‘Burn’s Country’, where the famous poet Robert Burns was born and raised.
First opened in 1960, Dalmilling is set between Ayrshires famous racecourse and the A77. This honest, open course began life as a 9 hole course to ease demand on the towns other courses, Belleisle and Seafield. Originally used for agricultural purposes the course was extended to an 18 hole layout in 1966 and then further altered in the 1980’s to the course we have today. Set in a gentle rolling landscape and adjacent to the River Ayrshire, where some of its tributary burns add interest to the early holes. Including the sixth, a 135 yard par 3 which is virtually surrounded by water!
At only 5686 yards long and a Par 69, rounds here will rarely take longer than 3 and a half hours.
Golf South Ayrshire operates 8 superb courses throughout the region. Each course boasts its own unique history, challenges and stunning Scottish scenery, alongside illustrious neighbours Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.
With a variety of different types to choose from ranging from links to parkland, each of our courses has its own individual character and varying degrees of difficulty, meaning that they have something to suit every level of golfer. These include three classic James Braid designs, the 4th most difficult course in Scotland at Troon or a leisurely stroll in the Carrick Hills.
Not only that, each of our fantastic courses are maintained to the same high standards, ensuring no matter which course your guest plays, we’re sure they’ll be impressed!
With 8 courses to choose from, Golf South Ayrshire offers more courses with more choice than any other provider in Ayrshire.
Each of the layouts are maintained to the same high standards as many in the region but can be played for a fraction of the cost.
We have a number of different packages – each tailored to suit individual golfing needs.
Follow in the footsteps of world famous designer and course architect James Braid or retrace Jack Nicklaus’ famous legacy playing in Troon.
If golf isn’t the main purpose of your trip, or your would like the flexibility to play some of the other fantastic courses in Ayrshire, maybe our 3, 5 or 7 day unlimited golf passes will meet your needs.
Unlimited Golf
.
A great way to enjoy all the golf you want from April – October.
.
The 3, 5 or 7 day tickets offer fantastic value with unlimited golf per day on all 8 Golf South Ayrshire courses, without restriction. Available from the clubhouses or starter on the first day of play, the 3 and 5 day ticket can be used within 7 days and the 7 day ticket can be used within 14 days.
Braid Trail
.
Follow in the footsteps of world respected course architect, James Braid with this fantastic golfing experience (Available April – October)
.
This fantastic golfing trail includes 3 rounds of golf which can be played over 3 days at Belleisle Park (2 courses) and Girvan Golf Course.
If time is tight, why not take advantages of our mini package which gives you the flexibility to choose your ideal round combination to be played over 2 days?
Troon Links Experience
.
Enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. (Available April – October)
.
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus’ and enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. This golf package includes Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton.
If time is tight, why not take advantage of our mini package, which gives you flexibility to choose your ideal 2 round combination?
Guaranteed Visitor Times
.
Up to 40 tee times per day are reserved for visitors which are bookable up to 12 months in advance.
.
We all know plans can change, especially when organising a holiday. Your reservation can be moved at no extra cost, up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
Girvan is a popular links/parkland course which has remained largely unchanged since James Braid took advantage of the same stunning views of Ailsa Craig as at its illustrious Turnberry neighbour.
The course, lying on the northern outskirts of the town, is unusual in that it is divided into two distinct parts. The opening 8 holes are pure links, adjacent to the coastline, and the second 10 holes are parkland. This latter part has the added problem of the river, from which the town takes it name winding through the land. Care should be taken on the 9th tee, as this hole is named after the gentleman who stepped back to admire a good driver only to take an unscheduled dip in the river.
At only 5064 yards and a Par 64, Girvan is not the longest, good club selection and clever course management are key to scoring well around this memorable course.
Golf South Ayrshire operates 8 superb courses throughout the region. Each course boasts its own unique history, challenges and stunning Scottish scenery, alongside illustrious neighbours Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.
With a variety of different types to choose from ranging from links to parkland, each of our courses has its own individual character and varying degrees of difficulty, meaning that they have something to suit every level of golfer. These include three classic James Braid designs, the 4th most difficult course in Scotland at Troon or a leisurely stroll in the Carrick Hills.
Not only that, each of our fantastic courses are maintained to the same high standards, ensuring no matter which course your guest plays, we’re sure they’ll be impressed!
With 8 courses to choose from, Golf South Ayrshire offers more courses with more choice than any other provider in Ayrshire.
Each of the courses are maintained to the same high standards as many in the region but can be played for a fraction of the cost.
We have a number of different packages – each tailored to suit individual golfing needs.
Follow in the footsteps of world famous designer and course architect James Braid or retrace Jack Nicklaus’ famous legacy playing in Troon.
If golf isn’t the main purpose of your trip, or your would like the flexibility to play some of the other fantastic courses in Ayrshire, maybe our 3, 5 or 7 day unlimited golf passes will meet your needs.
Unlimited Golf
.
A great way to enjoy all the golf you want from April – October.
.
The 3, 5 or 7 day tickets offer fantastic value with unlimited golf per day on all 8 Golf South Ayrshire courses, without restriction. Available from the clubhouses or Starter on the first day of play, the 3 and 5 day ticket can be used within 7 days and the 7 day ticket can be used within 14 days.
Braid Trail
.
Follow in the footsteps of world respected course architect, James Braid with this fantastic golfing experience (Available April – October)
.
This fantastic golfing trail includes 3 rounds of golf which can be played over 3 days at Belleisle Park (2 courses) and Girvan Golf Course.
If time is tight, why not take advantages of our mini package which gives you the flexibility to choose your ideal round combination to be played over 2 days?
Troon Links Experience
.
Enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. (Available April – October)
.
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus’ and enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. This golf package includes Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton.
If time is tight, why not take advantage of our mini package, which gives you flexibility to choose your ideal 2 round combination?
Guaranteed Visitor Times
.
Up to 40 tee times per day are reserved for visitors which are bookable up to 12 months in advance.
.
We all know plans can change, especially when organising a holiday. Your reservation can be moved at no extra cost, up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
TROON LINKS – THE HOME TO THREE FANTASTIC COURSES: DARLEY, LOCHGREEN AND FULLARTON
Troon Links is a collection of 3 excellent courses. Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton which play alongside Royal Troon, Portland and Barassie to form a group of six layouts that encircle the famous golfing town.
Darleyis a traditional links course, which offers a true challenge to even the most accomplished golfer. Featuring tight fairways and plenty of hazards, it is widely recognised as one of the countries toughest golfing challenges. At a little over 6300 yards, Darley is not as long as Lochgreen but if you score well here you’ll have played very well indeed.
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus, as this is the course where he qualified for his first ever Open Championship back in 1962. He didn’t win that time, but would go on to win the competition several times on his way to becoming one of golf’s greatest ever players.
Lochgreen is predominately a links course, with one stretch known as the ‘Dovecot Section’ – providing holes of a more parkland character, at 6785 yards and par 74, it is the longest of the 3 courses.
Fullarton is the perfect course for both beginners to the game or for the more accomplished golfer looking to hone their short games.
An inland links course, with undulating fairways, small greens and strategically placed bunkers, providing a great golfing experience for all. At just under 5000 yards, eight par 3 holes and one hole over 400 yards, rounds here will take less than 3 hours to complete. Making it the perfect choice if time is tight or if you’re warming up to play Darley or Lochgreen.
Featuring tight fairways and plenty of hazards, its widely recognised as one of the countries toughest golfing challenges
True challenge to even the most accomplished golfer
Lochgreen
Par 74 and 6822 yards
The course Jack Nicklaus qualified for his first ever Open Championship back in 1962
Lochgreen is predominately a links course
It is the longest of the three courses
Fullarton
Par 64 and 4867 yards
Inland links
It has undulating fairways, small greens and strategically placed bunkers
Perfect for beginners, or the more accomplished golfers to hone their short games
Golf South Ayrshire
Golf South Ayrshire operates 8 superb courses throughout the region. Each course boasts its own unique history, challenges and stunning Scottish scenery, alongside illustrious neighbours Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.
With a variety of different types to choose from ranging from links to parkland, each of our courses has its own individual character and varying degrees of difficulty, meaning that they have something to suit every level of golfer. These include three classic James Braid designs, the 4th most difficult course in Scotland at Troon or a leisurely stroll in the Carrick Hills.
Not only that, each of our fantastic courses are maintained to the same high standards, ensuring no matter which course your guest plays, we’re sure they’ll be impressed!
With 8 courses to choose from, Golf South Ayrshire offers more courses with more choice than any other provider in Ayrshire.
Each of the courses are maintained to the same high standards as many in the region but can be played for a fraction of the cost.
We have a number of different packages – each tailored to suit individual golfing needs.
Follow in the footsteps of world famous designer and course architect James Braid or retrace Jack Nicklaus’ famous legacy playing in Troon.
If golf isn’t the main purpose of your trip, or your would like the flexibility to play some of the other fantastic courses in Ayrshire, maybe our 3, 5 or 7 day unlimited golf passes will meet your needs.
Unlimited Golf
.
A great way to enjoy all the golf you want from April – October.
.
The 3, 5 or 7 day tickets offer fantastic value with unlimited golf per day on all 8 Golf South Ayrshire courses, without restriction. Available from the clubhouses or Starter on the first day of play, the 3 and 5 day ticket can be used within 7 days and the 7 day ticket can be used within 14 days.
Braid Trail
.
Follow in the footsteps of world respected course architect, James Braid with this fantastic golfing experience (Available April – October)
.
This fantastic golfing trail includes 3 rounds of golf which can be played over 3 days at Belleisle Park and Girvan Golf Course.
If time is tight, why not take advantages of our mini package which gives you the flexibility to choose your ideal round combination to be played over 2 days?
Troon Links Experience
.
Enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. (Available April – October)
.
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus’ and enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. This golf package includes Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton.
If time is tight, why not take advantage of our Troon Links mini package, which gives you flexibility to choose your ideal 2 round combination?
Guaranteed Visitor Times
.
Up to 40 tee times per day are reserved for visitors which are bookable up to 12 months in advance.
.
We all know plans can change, especially when organising a holiday. Your reservation can be moved at no extra cost, up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
HOME TO NOT ONE, BUT TWO FANTASTIC COURSES DESIGNED BY LEGENDARY ARCHITECT JAMES BRAID.
Designed by legendary golf course designer James Braid, Belleisle and Seafield are located in the picturesque parkland setting of Belleisle Park, Ayrshire.
Opened in 1972, Belleisle – a respected Championship course quickly gained its reputation as one of the UK’s finest inland public courses.
Alongside its ‘little sister’ Seafield, each offer their own unique golfing challenges, making the most of the natural landscapes and are a ‘must’ for any Braid and golfing fan.
Belleisle is a classic and a parkland golf venue set in Belleisle Park, where beech tree lined and extra long fairways are interlaced by the Curtecan Burn.
Belleisle Park – Belleisle Park, Doonfoot Road, Ayrshire KA7 4DU
Widely recognised as one of Britain’s finest public parkland courses
Retaining much of its original design, the classic course works its way through the picturesque Belleisle Estate
Seafield Course
Par 67 and 5492 yards
Often Recognised as ‘Belleisle’s Little Sister’
Opened in 1907 and redesigned to its current layout by James Braid in 1927
Rare combination of links and parkland holes that will test the skills and talents of even the most experienced golfer
Golf South Ayrshire
Golf South Ayrshire operates 8 superb courses throughout the region. Each course boasts its own unique history, challenges and stunning Scottish scenery, alongside illustrious neighbours Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.
With a variety of different types to choose from ranging from links to parkland, each of our courses has its own individual character and varying degrees of difficulty, meaning that they have something to suit every level of golfer. These include three classic James Braid designs, the 4th most difficult course in Scotland at Troon or a leisurely stroll in the Carrick Hills.
Not only that, each of our fantastic courses are maintained to the same high standards, ensuring no matter which course your guest plays, we’re sure they’ll be impressed!
With 8 courses to choose from, Golf South Ayrshire offers more courses with more choice than any other provider in Ayrshire.
Each of the courses are maintained to the same high standards as many in the region but can be played for a fraction of the cost.
In 2016, we moved into our much anticipated £1.6 million clubhouse at Belleisle Park, which boasts panoramic views over Seafield Golf Course, a licensed cafe, excellent PGA Pro Shop and a dedicated golf simulator room. Our family friendly clubhouse offers the perfect setting in which to recall a round after playing one or both of our James Braid classics.
We have a number of different packages – each tailored to suit individual golfing needs.
Follow in the footsteps of world famous designer and course architect James Braid or retrace Jack Nicklaus’ famous legacy playing in Troon.
If golf isn’t the main purpose of your trip, or your would like the flexibility to play some of the other fantastic courses in Ayrshire, maybe our 3, 5 or 7 day unlimited golf passes will meet your needs.
Unlimited Golf
.
A great way to enjoy all the golf you want from April – October.
.
The 3, 5 or 7 day tickets offer fantastic value with unlimited golf per day on all 8 Golf South Ayrshire courses, without restriction. Available from the clubhouses or starter on the first day of play, the 3 and 5 day ticket can be used within 7 days and the 7 day ticket can be used within 14 days.
Braid Trail
.
Follow in the footsteps of world respected course architect, James Braid with this fantastic golfing experience (Available April – October)
.This fantastic golfing trail includes 3 rounds of golf which can be played over 3 days at Belleisle Park (2 courses) and Girvan Golf Course.
If time is tight, why not take advantages of our mini package which gives you the flexibility to choose your ideal round combination to be played over 2 days?
Troon Links Experience.
Enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. (Available April – October).
Follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus and enjoy a truly authentic 3 round golfing experience in the famous golfing town of Troon. This golf package includes Darley, Lochgreen and Fullarton.
If time is tight, why not take advantage of our mini package, which gives you flexibility to choose your ideal 2 round combination?
Guaranteed Visitor Times
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Up to 40 tee times per day are reserved for visitors which are bookable up to 12 months in advance.
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We all know plans can change, especially when organising a holiday. Your reservation can be moved at no extra cost, up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability.
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The 5 times Open Champion James Braid, who, in his later years became a renowned golf course architect, designed the new course at Musselburgh. A Championship standard layout, which at 6725 yards long is a true test of golf for even the most accomplished golfer.
The Golf Club was formed in 1938. Having lost the Open Championship when the Hon Company moved to Muirfield, Musselburgh Town Council decided to build a championship course at Monktonhall.
Over the years the course has hosted many amateur championships and on two occasions the Scottish Professional Championship. It has the distinction of being a Regional Open Championship Qualifying course for Scotland until 2010 and in 2013 a Local Final Qualifying venue for The Open at Muirfield.
The Course– The 5 times Open Champion James Braid, who in his later years become a renowned golf course architect, designed the new course. He designed a Championship standard course, which at 6725 yards long is a true test of golf for even the most accomplished golfer.
Musselburgh Golf Club is only 20 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh and 30 minutes from Edinburgh Airport, at the east end of the Edinburgh Bypass.
Musselburgh – The Musselburgh Golf Club Ltd, Monktonhall, Musselburgh, Midlothian EH21 6SA
The Glen Golf Club is one of the most popular of East Lothian golf courses. Whether you have played golf in Scotland before, or if its your first visit, this is a golfing venue not to be missed.
This North Berwick course enjoys superb views across the Firth of Forth and provides an enjoyable text of golf for all levels of players.
If you are planning a golfing holiday in Scotland or organising a golf tour or golf package, take the opportunity of including The Glen. East Lothian golf is special and The Glen enjoys a central location in the ‘Edinburgh Golf Coast’. We look forward to hearing from you!
The course: in the 17th century golf was first played in North Berwick on these historic East Links. Originally laid out as a nine-hole course in 1894, it was extended to 18 holes in 1906 with a design provided by James Braid and Ben Sayers.
The Glen enjoys a breathtaking cliff top location with many spectacular holes offering views of the Firth of Forth and its islands including the Bass Rock, the world renowned bird sanctuary. The Glen is an all year round course and its seldom closed due to weather, playing normal greens and tees throughout the year.
An ideal location for visitors and golf outings. We will be delighted to put together a package for you which provides for all your needs at an acceptable cost. Visitors are welcome 7 days a week.
The Glen Golf Club, Tantallon Terrace, North Berwick, East Lothian EH39 4LE
Scotland is a land of hidden gems – and for golfers Kilspindie Golf Club is one of the finest, lying hidden among the nature reserve of Aberlady Bay, the quaint village of Aberlady, and the teaming waters of the Firth of Forth.
Playing these traditional Scottish links, you may witness sea-birds diving for food, migratory geese, and seals sunning on the sand. In the distance, you can see the profile of Edinburgh, its Castle, and the long extinct volcanic cone of Arthur’s Seat. The course is secreted away from the village via a few hundred yards of private, single-track road.
Kilspindie is a favourite of any golfer who has played it; quick, deceptive greens, well defined fairways; a good challenge, whatever your handicap! Kilspindie has been host to an alternative Ryder Cup, with 12-man teams playing with pre- 1930’s hickory shafted clubs.
Kilspindie is reputed to be the 35th oldest golf club in the world, instituted in 1867. The charm of the 114-year-old club is complemented by the warmth of the welcome from Keith Martin (Club Manager), Golf Pro Graham Sked, Mrs Marion Harkness and her dedicated bar staff, and Paul Kinnoch and his catering staff.
Kilspindie – Kilspindie Golf Club, The Clubhouse, Aberlady EH32 0QD
The links were designed by Park and Sayers with minor modifications over the years
What is interesting, for example is that the first hole, par 3, is due north whilst the 2nd hole is the only par 5 and, when played into the prevailing wind from the south west, can play more like a par 6 or 7
In addition to being a links heaven, East Lothian also has some cracking parkland courses and this is undoubtedly one of them. The course is set in peaceful walled surroundings and provides a thoroughly enjoyable test throughout. Here, they also go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome, so don’t miss out on a real treat.
Ideally located close to the A1, Haddington Golf Club is a mature 18 hole Par 71 golf course enjoying peaceful walled surroundings with the River Tyne on its north boundary.
Set in 130 acres, the course contains many natural features with abundant indigenous wildlife. Changes to the course in recent years include new ponds and bunkers offering an excellent challenge for all levels of golfers.
Haddington is an enjoyable and challenging alternative to the various links courses in the area.
The clubhouse provides members and guests with a relaxed, family, friendly atmosphere.
Enjoy a drink, snack or meal in the lounge or first floor dining room, offering spectacular views over the course and over the Lammermuir Hills.
Haddington – Haddington Golf Club, Amisfield Park, Haddington EH41 4PT
Formed in 1921, Longniddry Golf Club in East Lothian’ ‘the cradle of golf’ , is situated on the south shore of the Firth of Forth, arguably the finest stretch of golfing coastline in Scotland.
Longniddry Golf Club is the closest seaside course to Edinburgh, located on the South shore of the forth and only a 15 minute train ride from the city centre. The course comprises an unusual combination of woodland and links, with spectacular sea views from many holes.
The laying out of the course in 1921 was entrusted to Harry S Colt, one of the foremost architects of the day. There have been a number of alterations to Harry Colt’s original layout, notably in 1936, when James Braid was invited to advise on the second hole, following which a number of changes were made to the course, although none, it would appear, to the second!
Formerly an Open qualifying course, Longniddry is regularly asked to host amateur competitions such as the South East District Championship for the Lothian’s Golf Association, and in May 2013 Longniddry hosted the Scottish Ladies (Closed) Amateur Championship.
There are no par 5s but 8 par 4s measuring over 400 yards, Longniddry offers a very good test of golf for both members and visitors who come to enjoy some of the best golf available in Scotland.
Longniddry – The Clubhouse, Links Road, Longniddry EH32 0NL
Ladybank is a showcase for the variety of challenge open to members and visitors in Fife. For lovers of the game away from the sea Ladybank Golf Club provides a classic heathland test and enjoys a reputation as one of the finest inland layouts in Scotland.
Travelling inland to Ladybank Golf Club, one of Scotland’s finest heathland Championship courses.
A regular host to final qualifying for the Open at St Andrews, many famous golfers have graced the free draining fairways of Ladybank, often tight and tree lined with silver birches and traditional Scots pines.
Banks of heather also contribute to the beautiful landscape, not too dissimilar in looks to the Arden course in places.
A wildlife haven too and a vitally ideal habitat for the very rare Red Squirrel. Golfing wise, its a strategic challenge where good accuracy is key in avoiding the foliage and finding the comparatively small greens.
The ideal alternative to the Links with History coastal clubs, with Ladybank in the mix, you truly can enjoy a bit of everything.
A heathland course of Championship status (Par 71) set amongst heather, pine trees and silver birch
The Championship course (6754 yards) has two loops of nine holes – visitors generally use the blue course (6299 yards).
Congu C.S.S.: White 71, Yellow 71, Red 71
Part of the ‘Links with History‘
Play 5 Golfing Jewels – Set in the Kingdom of Fife
Links with History is a unique golf pass offering the opportunity to play top quality Championship golf at great value.
Developed by four Scotland’s leading golf clubs, the pass provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ to book and play rounds of golf at special rate green fees on these historic venues.
Links with History brings together Crail Golfing Society, Ladybank, Lundin and Scotscraig Golf Clubs, three of which have been Championship Final Qualifying venues. These clubs are among the oldest in the world and enjoy a rich golfing heritage. They are all within short driving distance at the Home of Golf at St Andrews making the pass the ideal way to experience playing on some true golfing treasures.
The Links with History Golf Pass Offers:
– Four Historic Golf Clubs offering 5 top class Championship Golf Courses to choose from
– Special Green Fee Rates
– Short Travelling distance between the courses
– Maximum Connivence when planing your golfing break
The two courses – Balcomie Links and Craighead Links – combine spectacular views and extraordinary holes to provide challenging and enjoyable golf.
Officially the world’s seventh oldest golf club, the society formed by 11 gentleman at the still standing Golf Inn in Crail in 1786.
Two courses, Balcomie Links, laid out by Old Tom Morris in 1895 and Craighead Links, far more recently in 1998.
No escaping the wind at either of these spectacular but exposed layouts set on the easternmost point of the Kingdom of Fife.
A golfing experience like few others, all 36 holes boast a sea view and many are destined to produce some exhilarating moments too, hitting over rocky inlets, testing tee shots on long par threes to cliff top greens, then spectacular tee views going back the other way, golf as nature intended.
A combination of stunning coastal views, centuries of history and hugely enjoyable golf is what makes Balcomie Links one of Scotland’s most finely polished, golfing gems
Formed in 1786, the Society is the 7th oldest golf club in the world
The course was designed by Tom Morris, and opened in 1895
Congu C.S.S.: White 70, Yellow 68, Red 70
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Craighead Course
Par 72 and 6651 yards
The sea is visible from every hole on this course
This challenging, cliff-top course was designed by world-renowned, golf course architect Gil Hanse
Built in the style of a traditional links course – with no trees protecting golf shots from the wind – Craighead provides panoramic views of up to 100 miles
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Congu C.S.S.:White 74, Yellow 72, Blue 68, Red 72
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Part of the ‘Links with History‘
Play 5 Golfing Jewels – Set in the Kingdom of Fife
Links with History is a unique golf pass offering the opportunity to play top quality Championship golf at great value.
Developed by four Scotland’s leading golf clubs, the pass provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ to book and play rounds of golf at special rate green fees on these historic venues.
Links with History brings together Crail Golfing Society, Ladybank, Lundin and Scotscraig Golf Clubs, three of which have been Championship Final Qualifying venues. These clubs are among the oldest in the world and enjoy a rich golfing heritage. They are all within short driving distance at the Home of Golf at St Andrews making the pass the ideal way to experience playing on some true golfing treasures.
The Links with History Golf Pass Offers:
– Four Historic Golf Clubs offering 5 top class Championship Golf Courses to choose from
– Special Green Fee Rates
– Short Travelling distance between the courses
– Maximum Connivence when planing your golfing break
– Professional advice and assistance
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/CrailBannerTop.jpg283870Midlands Golferhttps://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpgMidlands Golfer2017-01-14 21:56:422017-06-13 18:52:57Crail Golfing Society
Scotscraig Golf Club was founded in 1817 by some members of the St. Andrews Society of Golfers (later to become the Royal and Ancient Golf Club) who wished to play more golf than the Society’s occasional meetings afforded them.
Inland links at it’s very best, Scotscraig has a big year in store in 2017, only the 13th golf club in the history of the game to be able to celebrate it’s bi-centenary up to now.
In 1923 the legendary James Braid added the finishing touches to a golf course that in looks has similarities to the Hotchkin at Woodhall Spa, just with slightly less noticeable bunkering.
However, what is there is well placed and the large, rolling and frequently tiered greens ensure a good test too.
A lovely golf course with a friendly welcome guaranteed in the traditional clubhouse, with reminders of a rich history around every corner.
The Championship course was designed under the guidance of Tom Morris & James Braid
Its a unique mix of Heathland & Links
Congu C.S.S.:Blue 73, White 72, Yellow 71, Red 74
Part of the ‘Links with History‘
Play 5 Golfing Jewels – Set in the Kingdom of Fife
Links with History is a unique golf pass offering the opportunity to play top quality Championship golf at great value.
Developed by four Scotland’s leading golf clubs, the pass provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ to book and play rounds of golf at special rate green fees on these historic venues.
Links with History brings together Crail Golfing Society, Ladybank, Lundin and Scotscraig Golf Clubs, three of which have been Championship Final Qualifying venues. These clubs are among the oldest in the world and enjoy a rich golfing heritage. They are all within short driving distance at the Home of Golf at St Andrews making the pass the ideal way to experience playing on some true golfing treasures.
The Links with History Golf Pass Offers:
– Four Historic Golf Clubs offering 5 top class Championship Golf Courses to choose from
– Special Green Fee Rates
– Short Travelling distance between the courses
– Maximum Connivence when planing your golfing break
A magnificent Tom Morris/James Braid designed golf course. Lundin Links, just 20 minutes from St. Andrews is one Scotland’s gems. Formerly a qualifying course to The Open Championship when played in St. Andrews.
The finest possible example of links golf, with a short three hole parkland loop for a short alternative as this coastal course fleetingly climbs to higher ground.
Lundin was designed by Tom Morris and is regularly chosen as a local final qualifying venue when the Open Championship is held just up the road at St Andrews.
Narrow fairways, strategic bunkering, burns and ever-changing winds guarantee a testing but rewarding golfing experience.
Views across the Firth of Forth, on a clear day you can just about map out a few of the East Lothian links courses on the opposite side.
A complex links course with open burns, an internal out of bounds (the old railway line), and strategic bunkering, Lundin presents a challenge for the thinking golfer
Congu C.S.S.: White 71, Yellow 71, Red 73
Part of the ‘Links with History‘
Play 5 Golfing Jewels – Set in the Kingdom of Fife
Links with History is a unique golf pass offering the opportunity to play top quality Championship golf at great value.
Developed by four Scotland’s leading golf clubs, the pass provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ to book and play rounds of golf at special rate green fees on these historic venues.
Links with History brings together Crail Golfing Society, Ladybank, Lundin and Scotscraig Golf Clubs, three of which have been Championship Final Qualifying venues. These clubs are among the oldest in the world and enjoy a rich golfing heritage. They are all within short driving distance at the Home of Golf at St Andrews making the pass the ideal way to experience playing on some true golfing treasures.
The Links with History Golf Pass Offers:
– Four Historic Golf Clubs offering 5 top class Championship Golf Courses to choose from
– Special Green Fee Rates
– Short Travelling distance between the courses
– Maximum Connivence when planing your golfing break
East Lothian is one of the best regions for golf in Scotland, with 22 courses offering choice to golfers of all standards and tastes.
Royal Musselburgh Golf Club is the fifth oldest golf club in the world. In fact, The Old Club Cup, which has been awarded at Royal Musselburgh since 1774, is the oldest trophy still competitively played for in the world.
Royal Musselburgh was designed by James Braid, a picturesque parkland golf course kept in good shape and is a good test, especially when you are coming into the home stretch on the last five holes.
The short par three 14th at only 149 yards may sound easy but it’s named “The Gully Hole” and there’s good reason for that! From the tee you can’t see what the hole has in store and you have to carry over a 30 foot gully to a small green with bunkers guarding the front. The 18th needs a tee shot of at least 238 yards (more often than not into the wind) to clear the slope in the centre of the fairway and give you a look at the green.
The majestic club house is viewed from many of the holes and is a reminder of the history of the game and its longevity.
Royal Musselburgh – Prestongrange House, Prestonpans EH32 9RP
Royal Musselburgh Golf Club is the fifth oldest golf club in the world
The Old Club Cup, which has been awarded at Royal Musselburgh Golf Club since 1774, is the oldest trophy still competitively played for in the world
Designed by the famous Open champion and golf architect, James Braid, Royal Musselburgh Golf Club is a picturesque parkland course kept in tip-top shape and a treat to play
Back from the brink of closure this club is a golfing success story. Whilst some courses struggle, Castle Park is bucking all the trends.
This unique course, built on a naturally undulating site that was once the great deer park of nearby Yester Castle, is an ideal parkland alternative to the links course of East Lothian.
Castle Park is located inland from the coast about 40 minutes from Edinburgh and about 25 minutes from North Berwick.
With a wonderful new club house, a bespoke new driving range and most importantly a fresh modern approach to the sport of golf, everyone can enjoy it as a life-long leisure activity.
It’s no wonder membership is growing steadily, with the warm friendly and hugely welcoming atmosphere, coupled with a beautiful, challenging 18 hole course nestled at the foot of the stunning, tranquil Lammermuir hills around some of East Lothian’s prettiest rural countryside.
With it’s undulating natural landscape it’s a course for the shot shapers, one that requires creativity and imagination. The back nine has some challenging holes, in particular the short 12th. 168 yards from the back tees over the valley to a distinctly raised green.
The new owners are committed to providing enjoyable golf for all of their members and visitors whilst providing great 19th hole facilities. Considering the quality of the golf course, the inexpensive cost of play, the friendliness of the staff and the practice facility, this is good value for money and worth considering.
An added bonus – A good restaurant serving tasty and well-prepared home-cooked meals in a very friendly atmosphere.
Castle Park – Castle Park Golf Club, Castlemains, Gifford EH41 4PL
Naturally undulating parkland course nestled among the mature woodlands of the Yester Estate with the Lammermuir Hills providing the backdrop to the South.
Situated near Gifford on a site that was a Deer Park for the nearby Yester Castle
Congu C.S.S.: Blue 71, White 70, Yellow 70, Red 72
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Nestled in the Tweed Valley with the river meandering through the region, Peebles golf course allows you to bathe in the peace and tranquility of the Scottish Borders.
With many a view point of its historic town. There is also plenty to enjoy on this uplands course designed by Harry Colt.
At 6160 yards with a double green on the third and seventh holes, Peebles requires course management, with the locals advice of ‘All Putts run to Peebles’ to take note of.
The holes of particular interest are the sixth with the Wrae Burn just in front of the green, and so is it a lay up or go for glory?
The ninth is a short par five and with the wind behind is reachable in two, a high index for the ladies so an easy par for me. The highest hole is the 14th, Stey Brae with fantastic views over The Borders
The 16th is a short par three with a pretty bridge across as you approach the green, but beware an errant shot to the left as the trees will devour your ball.
The 18th is a rewarding downhill par five, and as the weary golfer returns for a much earned lunch the prospects of a warming par or even a birdie are good, a positive conclusion that will bring him or her back for more.
The club house and pro shop are a mark of the reception appreciated by golfing travellers, warm, friendly and generous.
Ranked in the top 10 of inland courses in Scotland, the spectacular Roxburghe Golf Course is set in the heart of the Scottish Borders near Kelso. The unique hotel with 22 bedrooms, a championship golf course and the full range of sporting pursuits on the Roxburghe Estates, offers a getaway destination little more than an hour’s drive from both Edinburgh and Newcastle.
Mandy & Jean-Louis at The Roxburghe – July
Entering the tree lined driveway to The Roxburghe Hotel fills you with anticipation for a one- off luxury experience. After a long couple of days touring with MG in Borders and East Lothian, it was just what we needed.
This unique hotel with 22 bedrooms, a Championship golf course and a full range of sporting pursuits, offers a getaway destination situated close to Kelso. We were able to enjoy some true Roxburghe hospitality by staying overnight, partaking of the award winning Chez Roux restaurant and playing the course the following morning.
Despite its unreserved luxury, there is not one inch of pretentiousness with the staff welcoming and warm throughout our stay.
A labour of love by the Duke of Roxburghe, it is the personal touches that make the Roxburghe so special. From the furnishings, books and paintings from the Duke’s own home, to his selection of fine wines, the hotel is a true home from home with character and individuality throughout.
The Championship course lies just a few steps away from the hotel. A Dave Thomas design, this course bears all of his unique hallmarks, numerous deep challenging bunkers, mature woodland, dramatic water hazards and generous rolling greens.
The stillness and peace is wonderful, some superb signature holes such as the short fourth, aptly named Azalea as it mimics Augusta’s 12th. The 14th with spectacular Borders views and the viaduct over the River Teviot, and the 18th for its finish over the ditch to an elevated green.
Jean-Louis and I enjoyed such a special stay, a full MG seal of approval and thanks go to Rupert Tan and the ICMI collection for their generosity.
The Roxburghe – Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course, Heiton, by Kelso, Roxburghshire TD5 8JZ
– Inclusive of Dinner, Bed & Breakfast and a round of Golf
– Valid Monday – Saturday
2 FOR 1 OFFER
– 2 nights for the price of 1 from £160 per night
– Inclusive Bed & Breakfast in a suite
– Dinner must be taken on both nights
– Valid Sunday – Thursday Only
WINTER DBB
From £229
– Inclusive of Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
– Valid 7 Days per Week
WINTER 4 BALL OFFER
Only £100
– Four Ball Round of Golf on the Championship Course
– Valid through the Winter
Championship Course
Par 72 and 6925 yards
5th top inland course in Scotland
Dave Thomas, internationally renowned golf course architect and former Ryder Cup star was appointed by the Duke in March 1995. His brief was to create a golf course of the highest quality using existing natural features of the site to maximum effect.
Congu C.S.S.: Blue 75, White 74, Yellow 72, Red 73
The golf course offers magnificent vistas of Scotland’s borderland countryside, with the Mendick Hill dominating the sites southwest. Several premier golfers have taken strokes on this grass, among them the British Open and Masters champion Sandy Lyle, an honorary member.
An outstanding 18-hole, par 69 moorland course which is a joy to play as well as offering a challenge to all levels of golfing ability.
Just a 20 minute drive down the A702 from the Edinburgh by-pass, it is situated above the picturesque conservation village of West Linton, away from the traffic.
Designed by James Braid, the course boasts wonderful views of the Scottish Border countryside with the hills of Upper Tweeddale to the south, Mendick Hill to the south west and the Pentland Hills to the north. In addition to the breath taking scenery there is an abundance of wildlife; including red grouse, hares, owls and curlews.
The club, formed in 1890, has always had equal membership for men and women and was recently voted the friendliest golf course in the Scottish Borders. The well appointed clubhouse caters for all pre and post round needs and overlooks the closing three holes of the course..
We played in October and the autumnal colours were impressive.
The course lay out, with dog legs and undulating fairways and greens challenges you throughout but no more than the 17th and 18th holes. A long par three, 189 yards followed by another, 222 yards uphill (par four for the ladies) with an elevated green and trees banked on the right, so beware the big fade or slice.
The clubhouse is welcoming and has a lovely atmosphere with beautiful views from its verandah. The food was delicious, in particular the red pepper soup.
West Linton – West Linton Golf Club, Medwyn Road, West Linton EH46 7HN
“The course every golfer must play” – Golfing in the Scottish Borders doesn’t get much better. The Woll Golf Course is one of the most popular courses in the Borders and has facilities second to none!
In Ashkirk is a privately owned golf and leisure facility with its own lodges overlooking the golf course and packages that include golf, fishing and shooting as well as an ideal location to visit nearby towns and historical points of interest.
The praises come from golfing groups to ramblers, families with pets and whisky connoisseurs who are all made to feel welcome whilst enjoying the hospitality, great food and functions so professionally put on by the staff and management in the restaurant.
The golf course has had a lot of investment in the past few years with 10 holes being further developed with USGA re-designed greens. On the day that we played, despite a Scottish mist they were slick but fair.
The course intertwines around farmland and the peace and quiet is tangible. Some of the tees are elevated and greens sunk down in valley beds, so club choice for approach shots needs plenty of thought which makes playing golf at The Woll most interesting.
The 4th hole named Dipper Haugh is a par five with a pond on the right in play yet out of bounds all along the left. Once successful off the tee it also requires an accurate approach shot to the large two tiered green. At 522 yards (470 from the red tees) it is not the length that gives it a low index, it’s the accuracy you’ll require.
The 10th hole is interesting with a blind tee shot down the gully, so despite being on the fairway you have a downhill lie, not an easy approach shot.
The short 11th, Roman Cundy is a clever hole as you can use the bank to the left of the green and your ball will roll down (unless like me you get caught too high up in the rough, happy with a bogey on that day)
Having spoken to Nicholas Brown (his family own the estate) and his natural ebullience and drive there is no doubt that the New Woll Estate will be up there with the best places to visit in Scotland for Midlands golfers and their families too.
New Woll – New Woll Estate, Ashkirk, Selkirkshire TD7 4PE
They completed a huge development project with 10 holes redesigned including USGA specification greens, taking the course another leap forward and setting it apart from the other courses in the Borders.
It has been described as “the course every golfer must play” and “The friendliest course in the Borders”.
If you are staying at the Hotel you can enjoy your golf FREE of charge and in the evening sit back on your patio overlooking the course and enjoy the views.
Pitlochry Golf is one of the finest inland golfing facilities in Scotland and we welcome everyone to be a part of our great golfing experience –from the fantastic course with sweeping views of the Tummel Valley to our state of the art clubhouse serving great food and drink – delivering fantastic service and value.
Pitlochry Golf is one of the finest inland golfing facilities in Scotland, a fantastic course with sweeping views of the Tummel Valley to a state of the art clubhouse serving great food and drink.
Just over an hour’s drive or less from Scotland’s main cities, Pitlochry Golf Course provides the perfect blend of exhilarating golf and pure relaxation. Try your hand on this 18 hole par 69 course with its awe-inspiring Highland views and undulating greens. The course is open to all – members, visitors and groups and offers enjoyable play for the average player and challenges the advanced. The clubhouse and pro shop both offer great service, value and a warm Highlands welcome.
TAKE THE PITLOCHRY TEST IN 2017
Gents Highland Open
5th – 11th August
Minimum 4 rounds of competition
+ one practice round for £90 pp
Ladies Highland Open
16th – 21st July
Minimum 4 rounds of ladies competitions
+ one practice round for £80 pp
Pitlochry Golf Week
27th May – 2nd June
Full week- Golf/Coaching/Other
activities/Evening Entertainment -£159 pp
OFFERS
Sunday Driver – £120 for a 4ball – includes two course lunch
Wonderful Wednesdays – Summer 2017 £15pp entry Open Competitions, all abilities welcomed to enter
Crieff Golf Club is rated as one of Scotland’s top inland courses. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, at the heart of golfing Perthshire, it provides a feeling of escape as well as spectacular views.
Crieff Golf Club is rated as one of Scotland’s top inland courses. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, at the heart of golfing Perthshire. Despite being only an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, it provides a feeling of escape as well as spectacular views. Built on gently sloping parkland, once the grounds of Ferntower House, the courses provide a fair, but challenging experience for all levels of player.
Excellent playing conditions and friendly reception to visitors led to the club being voted as one of the top UK golf courses by readers of Golf World magazine.
The Ferntower Course, which has previously staged events for the Scottish Golf Union, Perth and Kinross County and the PGA, is not only for the big boys, many society and social players enjoy the open nature of the course and the merciful rough.
Visitors and society groups are always welcome and leave glowing reports of their visits to Crieff.
Society and Group golf can cost as little as £24. Crieff offers 18 and 9 hole options and weekend dates are available.
The name for the course was taken from the Ferntower House, you can see the ruins of the House from the 12th, 13th and 14th holes.
Congu C.S.S.:White 72, Yellow 70, Red 74
Dornock Course
Par 32 (64 – 18 holes) and 2270 yards
9 Holes Golf Course
A short course, but still a stern test for golfers. It is an ideal course for a quick 9 holes, or as part of a 36 hole package with the Ferntower Course.
In November 2016 Midlands Golfer released our biggest ever travel supplement, a feature that had been eight months in the making. If you’re talking about a labour of love it can’t get a lot better than a MG Scotland guide. The amount of times we heard the expression ‘It’s a tough job but someone has to do it’ on our travels almost exceeded the number of warm welcomes we received, almost. But what we achieved from a trip to the SSE Hydro in Glasgow and The Scottish Golf Show in mid March, right through to going to print day on Thurs Nov 17th was also something way beyond our expectations. So now the magazine is out, it’s time to put all of this online as a thanks to all who supported the supplement and helped to put it together.
OUR SCOTLAND ADVENTURE
Throughout this online feature you can read in detail about all of the clubs and hotels who were kind enough to support us. But this part is a little different, it’s all about us, dedicated to the times we enjoyed in Scotland in 2016. The clubs, courses, hotels we played and stayed at along the way. The folks we met, the stunning surroundings, the laughs, the anecdotes and all of our personal highlights. It’s a long page, we’ll warn you of that right now, but we wanted to pay tribute in our way to The Home of Golf, have a little mickey take where necessary and describe just why we found it all so fantastic, and why you should visit too and make your own memories. After all, Golf is fun.
As long as you love the game, it’s impossible to not love golf in ‘The Home of Golf’, my own personal journey began with regular trips north in the 1990’s to see Dad and family. He lived for a number of years on the Isle of Mull, a magnificent place full of mountains, lochs, wildlife and more importantly two amazing and hugely contrasting nine hole courses, Craignure and Tobermory.
The memories made there never left me, so once I made it into golfing media, Scotland was always top of the wish list for areas to cover with a feature supplement. I just needed a couple of like-minded golf nuts who were prepared to put in what was needed to produce something special, enter Mandy and Jean-Louis Ambert. The three of us bore the brunt of the work and the visiting, but we also roped in Andy, Spencer and Carol who all enjoyed a trip as well.
Day 1 – March, Mandy and I en route to Glasgow at Tebay Services
Tebay Services here, a family owned service station close to Junction 41 near Penrith on the M6 became a bit of a mascot for the trips. Their magnificent breakfasts might have had something to do with that! Every trip we made to Scotland this year had a bit of Tebay attached to it, we ate on the way up, and shopped on the way back down, home produced and local food and drink to take back to the families.
AYRSHIRE – June 27th-29th: Travellers – Phil (MG Editor) – Andy (Leekbrook Travellers Golf Society Captain)
Following months of calls and emails we finally made it to Scotland and set about the task. Andy and I only had one game on the agenda but I confidently predicted more would follow, they had to, Andy is a serious golfing nut! It was a murky and drizzly beginning, wasn’t really golfing weather but the meetings went well. Ayrshire is an area absolutely packed with golf, once you reach the coast, courses more or less back into each other. We held some meetings and toured a few venues, even having a sneaky tour around Royal Troon, not many golfers there, plenty of workmen, it was just three weeks before The Open started.
But when driving away mid afternoon the weather was on the mend, and golf starved Andy was ready for some. So we drove into the car park owned by Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club and spoke to Gregor in the pro shop. He set the standard for what we were to be treated to during the whole thing, Gregor’s warm welcome extended to nine, now very sunny late afternoon holes on The Hillhouse Course (below), one of three loops of nine at Barassie. We had a great time and a fun nine where we actually played rather well, Andy fell in love with golf in Scotland at first sight.
Day two we did have a round booked following a couple of early meetings, this time at Barassie’s near neighbour, The Irvine Golf Club. What a great treat it was too, proper rough and ready links golf, humps and bumps and wild grasses, fierce pot bunkers and speedy greens, basically just what we came for!
On the Wednesday we travelled further north into North Ayrshire and beyond to Greenock and the edge of Glasgow, we met club chairman Jim at Greenock GC, he was only too happy to give us a guided tour, you get some views up here, let us tell you.
Andy, Jim Duncan & myself at Greenock GC – Amazing views
Later on though back down Troon way. We’d held a meeting the day before with South Ayrshire Council’s Keiran, they run 8 courses surrounding the Championship links venues of Ayrshire. He offered us a round of golf on one of them, Andy, who had always wanted to play golf in Troon was more than enthusiastic to take him up on his offer. So we played 18 holes at Troon Darley before we set off home, what a great experience it was. Darley sits on the same large patch of land as two other South Ayrshire tracks, Fullarton and Lochgreen – just don’t be fooled into thinking that council run means a lack of quality. Not here it doesn’t and during the rest of our Scotland experience we were able to look around a few more of the South Ayrshire cluster, affordable golf that doesn’t disappoint in the slightest.
Troon Darley – Troo Links
I didn’t know it at the time but the Darley deluge of rain that struck us on 17 and 18 was the only time in the full 2016 Scotland adventure that I got wet on a golf course, another developing theme of the feature was that we were all destined to be incredibly lucky with the weather! Following a drying off in the Troon Links temporary clubhouse (a brand new one opens this summer and looks amazing) we headed back home to Staffordshire and handed the travelling baton over to our favourite golfing couple.
Mandy & Jean-Louis enjoying the wine at Roxburghe Hotel (Borders)
Our first trip to Scotland started with Newcastle upon Tyne for a visit down memory lane to my home town. A couple of rounds of golf at Bamburgh Castle and Seahouses placed us en route to the Borders and organised meetings at the New Woll Estate at Selkirk, Peebles GC and The Roxburghe in Kelso. A theme arose that despite Scotland being the home of golf and receiving many visitors, proportionally few came from the Midlands. So we had a mission as well which was to discover why.
The Borders is perfect for that long weekend away, it took us just four hours from Stoke to Selkirk via Tebay Services of course for a bacon butty and a perfect view. New Woll Estate is family owned and we met Nicholas, the son with a story to tell, a revisit there in October with Carol to play the course was booked in the diary.
The historic town of Peebles is evident from their golf course and the exuberance and accommodating nature of Willy and Bill in the office confirmed the friendliness and open armed nature that would attract all golfers to the area. Then there was The Roxburghe in its glory but with not one inch of pretentiousness and the relaxed persona that comes as a result of the built in confidence of a venue steeped in success.
An hour away from The Borders brought us to East Lothian, a mecca of links golf and courses that have seen many an international event where historically celebrities of golf have walked and played on the same course as we do. Golf allows us to do that.
Our first trip was to Royal Musselburgh, a parkland course with its clubhouse originating in Norman times and the course itself being one of the oldest in the UK. It was another example for me of the sheer anticipation of what you would find. Initially slightly in awe I met the manager Dave, and the Pro Calum who soon put me at ease and sent us off onto a course which was a pleasure to play.
Further trips took us to Craigielaw, Archerfield, Gullane, Dunbar and Longniddry whose manager, Bob is linked to Golf East Lothian and the ‘cluster forum’ was established to embrace all the golf clubs and highlight individual courses that could accommodate all golfing budgets.
Ladies only as trip number two saw Carol and I heading up to the Scottish Borders with the obligatory stop off at Tebay on the M6 for a cooked breakfast. By this time we were considering applying for our own MG parking spot!
Arriving back at the Woll Estate in Selkirk we were greeted by Nicholas who with his father owns and runs the golf club, lodges and caters for shooting and fishing. Although the weather was indifferent we had a great time especially as Carol squinted at an animal in a field and said the immortal words
“Gee that’s a big horse” to which I replied “Carol, it’s an Aberdeen Angus” – Mental note, get your eyes tested!!
Nicholas was a true charming gentleman and we enjoyed our day, also meeting the Captain of the Baberton Golf Club in Edinburgh who invited us to play there on our way back to Stoke on Trent.
We headed straight to East Lothian and found our hotel for the next 2 nights, the Macdonald’s Marine hotel and enjoyed the sumptuousness of the room and the food. Truly spoilt to death and the langoustine was yummy.
The Glen – and the ‘painted’ rock
East Lothian this time had a trip to The Glen Golf Club with its distinctive cliff top landscape overlooking the Bass rock. Rumour has it that the staff lure some of its Transatlantic visitors with the yarn that the white top of the cliff is painted every few years as they pull the rock to land and normally run out of paint hence only the top is white. Incredibly some golfers believe this, in reality a huge population of Gannets nest there!!!
A trip led us to St Andrews and a meeting set up in a prestigious hotel, not Rusack’s I hasten to add. The extremely efficient marketing staff made us feel slightly amateurish, in retrospect probably should have done a bit more research before going there. Thank God for the fire alarm and Carol and I made a quick exit. We found some friends of mine who were playing at St Andrews and drowned our bad experience in gallons of wine. By this time when we nipped out onto the famous turf to take a selfie, it was getting quite blowy too!
Carol/Mandy and a blustery day in St Andrews
We went to two big hotels, the Green Hotel in Kinross with its own 2 golf courses and the Old Manor in Lundin Links, both ideal accommodation for Midlanders playing golf and visiting the sights around Fife which each hotel lying right on the main tourist trunk roads.
En route back to Staffordshire, we met the captain again from Baberton GC and played there. With views of the Forth Bridge and a capital city festooned with golf clubs hopefully they will come on board for our potential Scotland Supplement mark II.
Just me this time, a solo trek where I didn’t get to play a whole lot of golf, but packed a lot into an increasingly crowded schedule, yet again the weather was mercifully very kind. It all began with Sunday afternoon trek to Earlsferry on the East Neuk of Fife, naturally via Tebay. My place for two nights was at St John’s House, situated along the same street as the house where a young James Braid was born and raised. Our long standing friends Vincent and Greg Walker from Golfing Links who also live in the town own St Johns, a five bed luxury two floor town house that sleeps 10-12 golfers and is the ideal base for a Fife golfing trip. It was Ryder Cup Sunday and I had vowed to myself to drop my bags off and nip to the pre-recommended 19th hole pub a few yards down the road to watch the close. As that wasn’t shaping up too well, I stayed in and visited the pub the next night instead with Vince for a meal, very highly recommended.
Fife golfing royalty – Crail
Monday was yet another sunny day and I packed in meetings at Leven Links, Scotscraig, St Andrews (twice) and Crail, you can imagine the golfing splendour on offer but I had a timetable to keep to. Back to Earlsferry for a late afternoon round at Elie Links with Vince and Greg (pictured), the golf course, naturally a James Braid design sits on open links land and it’s far extremities see right on edge of the Firth of Forth with the golfing coast of East Lothian on the other side in full view on a clear day, we had one of those. We could make out the ‘painted’ rock very clearly, a bit of a shame that low tides prevent ferry use from one side to the other, it’s quite amazing just how close to each other the two famous golfing regions are when you look across the water.
Long time MG pals – Greg and Vince with me at Elie Links
But Monday afternoon was about a relaxing game of golf and what a round it was, with due respect to the others Elie was my favourite game in Scotland, might have had something to do with the fact that I played rather well, in fact all three of us did, birdies and pars were flying in, the memorable seaside stretch of three holes was conquered, level par by all of us. Ok it wasn’t as windy as it could have been, but we’ll take it and during the walk back to the clubhouse on the closing holes, we continued the form as the light faded. A lovely course and you must come and play it some day. It also has two quirks, firstly the periscope here. This is an unique way for the starter to check that the first blind from the tee fairway is clear before he waves golfers off on their rounds.
And then there’s the 9th hole, a few years ago a young golfer performed a quite amazing feat here, one that has now been viewed by over three and a half million YouTubers worldwide. The video is here, the man who performed it, none other than my playing partner Greg Walker here. Greg is a very talented golfer but when we tried to re-create the feat from the same spot we all fell woefully short, the conditions just weren’t conducive to a repeat performance.
So that was Monday and the following day offered no golf but it turned into an epic trek for which we ended up feeling truly grateful, as meetings turned into further meetings and our Scotland guide grew even further than we could have possibly imagined. Lundin Links and Ladybank in Fife then across the Tay Bridge to meet Jane Taylor from Carnoustie Country at Panmure GC. Jane was more than receptive and pointed my way further up the Angus coastline where her cluster of clubs reside.
So later I visited Carnoustie itself, Montrose and then inland via Edzell, Strathmore and over to Blairgowrie. By now I’m getting my first glimpse of golf in Perthshire and what a gorgeous sight the 36 hole Blairgowrie is, those who know me in golf know that I’m very much a heathland/links man so when something parkland related catches my eye then it must be good. It’s on the bucket list and we thank Douglas from the club for his support.
Beautiful Blairgowrie GC
Those who know golf in Perthshire rate Blairgowrie as ‘the affordable Gleneagles’ , late afternoon I was delighted to just have enough daylight left to grab 20 minutes over at the real thing as I criss-crossed Scotland en route back to Ayrshire. We missed out on featuring Gleneagles in this feature but rumour has it that 2017 we may well be back for a longer stay.
Wednesday I was back on more familiar ground, Ayrshire beckoned again with more meetings to confirm their section in the feature. No golf again but I spent valuable time with the two Ayrshire reps we had befriended, Jamie who runs Ayrshire Golf in general, and I caught up with Keiran again from South Ayrshire. In the afternoon I visited another one of Keiran’s venues at Girvan and while there I grabbed a quick chat at Trump Turnberry too. Stayed in Largs for the evening and caught this beautiful sunset over the Isle of Arran on my way up.
I’d done enough at this point to guarantee more business and also one last epic trip to Scotland for more or less all of us. Thursday I could have headed back early following one last meeting at Rowallan Castle but David there who we had befriended earlier in the summer invited me to play a few holes and yep you’ve guessed it, it was marvellously sunny so I indulged. Rowallan is a new course, a Colin Montgomerie design set around the stunning 15th century castle. A well presented parkland layout with water hazards, large greens and one that becomes increasingly open the elements and lengthy too, the long hitters will love it. Clear days like I got offer great view of the Ayrshire coastline too. Finally I enjoyed a 20th hole snack before the long trip home, why is it the 20th hole? You’ll have to find out for yourselves when you visit, Rowallan has a quirky way of looking after their golfers who don’t have quite as much spare time as others.
This is was it then, time to conclude everything and put all the bits together in one last final journey to The Home of Golf. We had a bit on so divided up into two pairs to begin with, myself and Spencer for Ayrshire and Perthshire, Jean-Louis and Mandy (in her new second home) Borders and East Lothian.
Hubby and wife took in a round at West Linton Golf Club in Borders on their way up to Fife, another James Braid design that offers some lovely views of the Edinburgh neighbouring hills and also plenty of nature too. Voted the friendliest club in The Borders, the welcoming nature extends all the way to the clubhouse and the food wasn’t half bad either. Mandy waved a tearful goodbye to her area and crossed the Forth Bridge in the evening to prepare for our Scotland finale.
The day before, Spencer and I travelled up the other side to Ayrshire again, with all of the office banter still ringing in his ears as it had been all summer, Spencer was expecting much from his first Tebay breakfast which didn’t disappoint. After a couple of meetings we had one more Ayrshire course review to perform, one I had been looking forward to ever since the first trip in July.
Largs Golf Club is known locally as Ayrshire’s Augusta, not just the region’s No1 parkland course but also a floral delight in the summer months too. In October we lacked that of course, but instead as the picture below shows we got ourselves a lovely early autumnal look instead. Another decent weather day and we thoroughly enjoyed this windy, testing and gently undulating course that has woodland on one side and sea views to the other. Look out for a real Amen Corner type stretch around the turn too, the fast rushing brook that winds it’s way across the course to the sea is quite a hazard to cross. Thanks to Andy in the pro shop and Debbie in the office for their help.
We stayed at Brisbane House Hotel in Largs for the night but the next day was all about Perthshire. It almost seemed a little late in the feature to meet ‘Mr Perthshire Golf’ Allan Minto, but thanks to his work on our behalf and knowledge it turned out to be very worthwhile. Also we tripped over to Crieff Golf Club which was the furthest north we managed to get to during the whole thing, and also to Alyth GC. Spencer was left wondering why he hadn’t joined us earlier by the time I dropped him off at Edinburgh station in the evening, he ‘d got the bug – albeit a little too late.
To The Old Manor Hotel then for the final fling, this was a relationship that Carol and Mandy had cultivated on their previous trip, and also met up with manager Morag too, one of THE characters of our whole journey. Mandy and Jean-Louis were already on their second bottle of red by the time I arrived, we dined in style and looked forward to Thursday.
The next morning we nipped over the bridge again and visited two of the courses in our Championship Links Package, Monifieth Links and Panmure, classic links venues next door to Carnoustie, we really need to spend more time here next time.
Nicest looking clubhouse of the feature award – Panmure GC
But we’d saved something special for the end, 36 holes of golf in Fife, starting on Thursday at Scotscraig GC. This was another relationship I’d grown through the year, Scotscraig are part of the Links With History cluster, four great clubs in Fife surrounding St Andrews. Alison from Scotscraig helped us enormously to get the feature together and when she invited us for a game so we could give her club some extra special attention, we weren’t going to turn it down.
Jean-Louis was particularly proud that we were playing the world’s 13th oldest golf club and enjoyed himself immensely, although he did very nearly decapitate his wife, who was standing innocently on the ladies tee on one hole! I also got myself a prickly behind, but as you can view on the video, the shot played wasn’t half bad, it was painful believe me! But Scotscraig was a true delight, if not that close to the seaside, it has all of the linksy golfing attributes you would expect to find, Mandy raised her game as dusk fell, squeezing a win on the 18th green in front of the clubhouse with a glorious sunset as a backdrop.
A special round and as we opened another bottle of wine at The Old Manor on our last night in Scotland it was time to reminisce, ironically since the golf show, this last bit was the only time all summer and autumn that Mandy and I had been together in Scotland.
We didn’t hit the bar too much on the last night we had a big day ahead, and we were lucky too that it was Morag’s night off, she had promised us something of a session had she been around, Mandy reckoned that it would have been a messy one had it occurred!
One final day and we haven’t mentioned St Andrews too much but what a place to finish everything off as I’m sure you’ll agree. Fairmont later but we spent the morning there, more or less doing the touristy things, including THE photo of course (main image). But we were also treated to a tour of Macdonalds Rusacks Hotel which overlooks the 18th hole of the Old Course, where many top players stay when they are in town.
The final 18 holes were enjoyed by the three of us just up the road on The Torrance Course at Fairmont St Andrews. Set on slightly higher ground, the two courses here tread a path along a rocky coastline, very open land and we can imagine it can get a little breezy in these parts, but guess what? It was calm again for Midlands Golfer.
Can’t say we made the most of the friendly conditions, the courses are long and you need to drive the ball well, not sure that we did. It’s new golfing ground at Fairmont, but they’ve set it up to be raw and traditional old links in style and it delivers too. The bunkering in particular is quite scary, tiny little steep faced traps that seem like you’re unlikely to find from distance, you tend to find anyway.
But not to worry, it felt like ‘School’s Out’ time and we laughed and joked our way around, even playing up the wrong 18th hole. JL took the spoils and celebrated with a warming clubhouse coffee as Mandy and I took the buggy out to have a look at Fairmont’s second course The Kittocks. Equally as spectacular and challenging, there’s really very little to choose between them.
A fitting ending and we parted company and disappeared off down south for the long trip back to Staffordshire. Despite taking different routes around Edinburgh, we managed to meet up one more time by chance at the No1 motorway service station on the southside. So what started at Tebay, ended there too.
Midlands Golfer magazine would like to thank all in Scotland who have supported us and helped to make this feature a big success. We’d also like to single a few out too for special attention for their unstinting support, we hope this feature and magazine supplement is just the end of the beginning. We will return……….
Special thanks to Bob Gunning (Golf East Lothian); Jane Taylor (Carnoustie Country); Jamie Darling (Ayrshire Golf); Alison Harvey (Scotscraig GC) and Allan Minto (Perthshire Golf)
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https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/sco14.jpg6041074Midlands Golferhttps://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpgMidlands Golfer2017-01-11 23:05:462019-01-31 20:37:49The Home of Golf – Our tale
A Warm welcome is guaranteed in this extended Victorian Hotel
It is situated on the historic Montrose Mid Links – a quiet location but only a few minutes away from the town centre and Montrose Medal and Broomfield golf courses. At around thirty minutes drive from Panmure and Monifieth and a further 15 courses to choose from in the area, the Links hotel is the perfect base for a golf break.
Most rooms have been recently refurbished and they offer a choice of Standard, Superior and Executive Rooms with Bed and Breakfast from £85 per night.
The cosy bar offers a range of local craft beers, Scottish Gins and Malt Whiskies – ideal for a post-round chat and a restaurant and coffee shop for light snacks through to one of our succulent Aberdeen Angus Steaks.
Wifi is free throughout the hotel and these is parking for 40 cars.
Montrose Medal golf course, established in 1562, is the fifth oldest golf course in the world and if you are looking for classic Scottish links courses to play, this is a must.
Our 450-year heritage is found in each of the 36 holes on the two courses at Montrose Links – the Medal and the Broomfield courses.
Located only thirty minutes from Carnoustie and less than an hour’s drive from St Andrews and the international airport of Aberdeen, Montrose Links is ideally located in a popular golfing hub on Scotland’s east coast.
The Medal Course is a stunning classic links and has hosted the PGA EuroPro Eagle Orchid Scottish Masters for the last four years and in 2016 was one of the final qualifying courses for the Senior Open Championship.
The Montrose landscape guarantees enjoyment and a testing time at one of the world’s oldest golf courses, and offers a great golfing experience and reliable playing conditions all year round.
Established in 1643, Monifieth’s Medal golf course is a combination of parkland and links, undulating ground flanked on many holes by rows of pine trees. Deep revetted bunkers are another feature.
A further 36 holes reside at Monifieth, the Medal course is the Championship challenge, and the one to play as part of the package. As you head away from the clubhouses (Monifieth Links has three of them) the Medal actually runs adjacent to Panmure in parts.
The layout is set on undulating links with some old dune ridges, often covered in gorse, between fairways that untypical of links are tree lined in many places. The Medal has a reputation as a tough and uncompromising track, bounded on one side by the railway line heading north.
If the prevailing wind is blowing in from the Firth of Tay it can bring into play some very tough stretches of rough to punish errant shots. Monifieth has large, fast and firm greens and clever bunkering to further enhance it’s highly regarded reputation.
A good test for sure but one that possesses much natural,raw beauty and some stand out holes too, a few mid-length par fours on the slightly less demanding back nine will stick in the memory, cutting through increasingly undulating terrain.
Panmure golf course near Carnoustie has hosted many national and regional championships in its time. Perhaps less conspicuous than its neighbours, it is one of the true golfing gems of the Angus coast.
Panmure’s history dates back to 1845, one of the 26 clubs that originally helped purchase the Amateur Championship trophy first played in 1885.
The course, which is in excellent condition all year round, rewards accurate driving and iron play with generally small greens and subtle borrows developed through over 100 years of play.
The testing layout is currently a regional qualifying course for The Open Championship (2016-2020).
Panmure has all the characteristics of a championship links, great variety of holes, superb bunkering and turf quality second to none. Hillocks and heather present the same challenge as the more traditional sand dunes but all three obstacles abound at Panmure.
The sixth hole, named after Ben Hogan is one of Scotland’s greatest par fours, semi blind tee shot to the undulating fairway followed by an uphill second shot to a tight raised green guarded by the bunker suggested by the great man himself during a pre Open trip in 1953.
The 18th hole brings you home to the view of the majestic clubhouse, one of Scotland’s finest and a warm welcome awaits after your round.
It’s a natural thing to be drawn to the links venues of Ayrshire, they are the headline grabbers in this region with two Open Championship venues and a wealth of quality neighbours too. But not everyone prefers golf by the seaside, for the parkland lovers there is much to admire too.
One of Ayrshire’s newer golf courses, a modern design set on historic land. Rowallan Castle itself which overlooks the majority of the golf holes here has origins dating back to the 13th century, taking it’s present form in 1513. It is available to hire for golfing parties wishing to immerse themselves in the past medieval style, plus some golf of course!
I enjoyed a beautifully sunny autumn trek around Rowallan, only opened in 2011 and designed to a very high spec by Colin Montgomerie. The lie of the gently undulating land is used to great effect and it’s very much a layout of nearly two halves. The first eight holes swing around the estate’s interior, large free formed bunkers and regular water hazards are in the mix and the first and eighth are beauties for entirely different reasons.
The ninth sends you out into the open, holes lengthen and become far more exposed to the elements on higher ground. But you also get some great views too across the east Ayrshire countryside, and a clear day gives regular reminders that your really not that far away from the seaside.
A splendid quirk about Rowallan is that they seem to have thought of GolfExpress before anyone else did. In it’s current shape, if you wanted to play a quick nine it’s not really possible. So they made an extra hole, running a flat par three along the castle grounds, you can add that to the first eight, not a problem anymore if you only have two hours to spare.
The ’20th hole’ is an ultra modern facility and the food is wonderful if the delicious ciabatta roll I enjoyed after play is indicative of the menu as a whole.
It’s a natural thing to be drawn to the links venues of Ayrshire, they are the headline grabbers in this region with two Open Championship venues and a wealth of quality neighbours too. But not everyone prefers golf by the seaside, for the parkland lovers there is much to admire too.
You don’t actually leave the seaside too far behind when you visit Largs, very much a parkland course, but one with a permanent sea view too. The club is situated on the road into the resort town and boasts lovely views across the Clyde Estuary over to the isles of Cumbrae, Bute and Arran.
With a forestry and bracken/fern backdrop on the opposite side it’s a beautiful setting to enjoy a round of golf and the superb standard of course conditioning from tee to green will only enhance your playing experience further. Spencer and I enjoyed an autumn game at Largs, the weather treated us kindly so we were more than able to see and play it at it’s best. An uphill par three to start with, it’s a tricky club selection test but the climb does guarantee a wonderful tee shot sight from the next hole which plunges back down the bank, one for the long hitters to enjoy.
The height of the test comes mid stretch with a trio of holes the locals have christened as Largs’ very own ‘Amen Corner’. Two demanding carries over the rushing burn to the putting surfaces at nine and 10, then an uphill stroke index one 11th through the tree lined fairway to a very distant green. All par fours – for us, three fives would have earned high fives – we didn’t get close.
To conclude, a lovely finishing trio of shortish fours, climbing gently back to the clubhouse, good putting tests all, the greens are quite wonderful here.
Largs has a great autumn look but this place isn’t called ‘Scotland’s Augusta’ for nothing, if you do book a trip for summer 2017, prepare for an explosion of colour!
Largs Golf Club – Irvine Road, Largs, Aryshire KA30 8EU
On a Coastline steeped in history and tradition it was a pleasure for Andy and myself to sample a couple of Ayrshire’s classic old links courses during a pre-open championship visit in late June.
Irvine’s Championship course is set a little away from the sea on reclaimed land, totally links in terms of playability and rugged looks. An unmistakable James Braid design, he crafted holes around an ever changing landscape which gives rise to a number of exciting challenges, with more than one way to play them too. Boredom isn’t a factor, neither is the quality, Irvine had the fastest running fairways we encountered in Scotland this year, not always a positive if we strayed just a little offline, what goes awry, stays that way!
The greens too were quite superb and equally as slick, these factors combined with a naturally gnarled sort of look in places gave us the biggest impression of the trip that we were playing golf exactly as it should be, and exactly as it was over a hundred years ago. A special place, and if you visit, beware of a majestically bumpy stretch from three to seven, where a lack of yardage is no indication of an easy ride. It is an indication though that The Irvine can bite and you maybe need a few rounds before you can truly master its complexities.
Views of the Isle of Arran are a pleasant distraction and reserve some time to enjoy the wonderfully traditional clubhouse fare and take a look at the history dotted around the walls. Tales of pride from Irvine, paying due tribute to their rich pedigree of quality golfers.
The links fairways, built on sand, are divided by gorse and heather
The Club has produced three Scottish Amateur Champions, a World Junior Champion, a Walker Cup player, and a British Seniors Champion.
They staged numerous Open Championship Final Qualifying events with the R & A and recently co-hosted the British Amateur Championship with Royal Troon.
In 2009 they hosted the Ladies Home Internationals
In 2011 they hosted the prestigious Scottish Seniors Open Championship
In 2015 they hosted the Scottish Youths Championship
They also held the final qualifying for the Ricoh Ladies British Open at Turnberry.
Congu C.S.S.: Blue 73, White 72, Yellow 71, Red 74
On a Coastline steeped in history and tradition it was a pleasure for Andy and myself to sample a couple of Ayrshire’s classic old links courses during a pre-open championship visit in late June.
One dull Ayrshire day finally brightened up in late afternoon, and we took advantage and played nine at Barassie, just two miles away from Royal Troon. We were welcomed warmly and given a scorecard each to grab a twilight two hours on the Hillhouse course. Barassie is a 27 hole venue now thanks to a new nine constructed in the 1990’s.
Our loop is part of the original 1887 design and although it’s modest length makes it the spare nine when they host a championship here, it’s hard to believe we took on the easiest option. All of your traditional links features are present here, lightning quick greens, penal little pot bunkers and humps and hollows destined to steer your ball in all sorts of favourable and un-favourable directions. The gorse bushes and heather are in situ as well, but despite the plethora of peril we coped well with the challenge, the sunshine brought out some good golf and some lovely sights too. A nice place to be towards the end running down the side of the railway line protected by Scotch Pines and Firs, the seventh is a beauty, garnished throughout in yellows and purples with a speedy two tiered raised green in prospect.
The actual Championship course at Barassie stretches to almost 7,000 yards from the medal tees, with an SSS of 74 too it offers much of the same, just a fair bit longer. What is permanent is the top class conditioning on offer here, R&A standard for when Open qualifying comes to town.
Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club benefits from having 27 holes in play at any one time and this allows the course to be laid out in three different eighteen hole configurations:
Barassie Links (18 holes)
Par 72 and 6852 yards
Offering Golf Links Challenge since 1887
The normal course in play for visitors is known as The Barassie Links and comprises of nine holes from the traditional course and nine holes constructed in the nineties
Within striking distance of Royal Troon, Prestwick and Turnberry
The course is an Open Championship Final Qualifying venue with a well-deserved reputation for some of the best maintained greens in Scotland
Final Qualifying for the 2009 Open Championship
Host to the Boys Amateur Championship 2010
Host to Scottish Amateur Strokeplay Championship 2012
Final Qualifying Course for the 2012 Senior Open Championship
Host to 2016 R&A Junior Open Championship
A key feature of Barassie is that the course is well drained. Being close to the sea, Barassie benefits from a moderate climate. The course remains playable throughout the year, a major plus for members and visitors alike
Congu C.S.S.:White 74, Yellow 72, Red 76
Traditional Course (18 holes)
Par 71 and 6486 yards
The Traditional Course is shorter than Barassie LInks but still provides a formidable challenge when in play
Congu C.S.S.: White 72, Yellow 70, Red 74
Dundonald Course (18 holes)
Par 69 and 6107 yards
The Dundonald Course is used less frequently than the other two layouts and uses the alternate nine holes from the traditional layout and the nine new holes.Still shorter than Barassie Links but still provides a formidable challenge when in play
Congu C.S.S.:White 71, Yellow 69, Red 72
HillHouse (9 holes)
Par 68 and 5776 yards
(Par 34 and 2888 yards for 9 holes)
The Hillhouse is the name for the nine hole course that is normally in play alongside Barassie Links
Our Scottish swansong for 2016 came at St Andrews, the final round at The Home of Golf, kind of apt really. The newest of all is Fairmont St Andrews, two more coastal layouts, Torrance and Kittocks, and a luxury hotel.
Myself, Mandy and Jean-Louis took on the Torrance course, designed by the Ryder Cup star in 2001, one that has played host six times to the European Tour’s Senior Scottish Open. We were struck immediately by the first class conditioning and the links styled crumpled fairways. To be blessed by a fortunate bounce is a key component to a successful round, we enjoy golf like this, new turf but old values in perfect harmony.
Due homage is paid to this special area, no resort styled bunkering, instead you get punishing little revetted traps. They’re not hidden away but proved to have magnetic appeal to our road weary golfers. A course garnished with mini ‘road hole’ bunkers, an abiding memory.
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The greens too are true St Andrews, huge affairs and wonderfully challenging without the merest hint of a bump, the same can be said for The Kittocks course.
The challenges came thick and fast, the long lakeside third with it’s raised green and terror traps. The short par five sixth, surely a great birdie chance, but this hump and bump terrain might have a nasty surprise in store. To the back nine and the running ditch that sits in front of the 12th and 14th greens caused a nervous moment or two.
To the closing holes, exciting as they take you right to the edge of the coastline. The 16th shows you a distant green, and nothing else beyond it other than a plunging cliffside. The 17th is an epic long par three to a double tiered green, we had a calm day but can imagine this in a buffeting cross wind.
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Jean-Louis took the spoils and celebrated with a 19th hole coffee, leaving the editors to jump in a buggy and grab a late pm look at The Kittocks. Of equal Championship pedigree, the course has hosted the EuroPro Tour and earlier this year, the Scottish Youth Championships. Designed by Bruce Devlin, this layout gets even more spectacular in looks than it’s neighbour, golfers can look forward to even more coast hugging holes too. Once again the deep revetted bunkers are in full view as are the large sized undulating greens, a further doff of the cap to the Auld Grey Toon itself can be found at seven and ten, which share a green, so long it might just have two postcodes!
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Kittocks Den is a further concern, a deep ravine that tests your approach on the fourth and tee shot on 12, but the probable highlights come around at 15 and 17, inspiring cliff edge greens to play an approach shot to. We vowed to return to play this one too one day, very little to choose between the courses in terms of quality and enjoyment. They are both more than enough of a test on a calm day such as ours, now if the wind gets up…………..
Off-season it’s a good option to combine a trip to Fairmont with an Old Course ballot, your chances of success are greatly improved in the winter months.
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The Hotel– Five star luxury at Fairmont, 209 sumptuous bedrooms and suites, a range of quality eateries to suit all palettes and full leisure and spa facilities are what you can look forward to on a break here.
To get the best green fee rates check the website – CLICK HERE
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