Nina Caldwell
Planning a golf trip to Scotland can be a daunting task, especially for first-timers. To guarantee a spot on the tee sheet at marquee courses such as The Old Course at St. Andrews, Muirfield, or Royal County Down, it is recommended to start planning early, typically a year in advance. The experience at these courses is highly sought-after, and tee times are often released in the spring of the preceding year and don't last long. When planning a trip to Scotland, it is essential to consider the seasonality and choose the best time to visit, usually from mid-May to mid-September, with the possibility of good weather in April and October. It is also important to understand the currency, as USD is not accepted in the UK, and there are different currencies in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. To make the most of your trip, it is suggested to choose two or three regions and play the marquee courses within those areas, rather than trying to cover too much ground. Additionally, it is beneficial to mix in some hidden gems alongside the renowned courses to reduce costs and experience traditional links courses. When planning, it is crucial to consider the number of golfers and non-golfers, the preferred length of the trip, desired courses, transportation, and accommodation options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Planning | Planning should begin early, especially for marquee courses such as The Old Course at St. Andrews, Muirfield, and Royal County Down. |
| It is recommended to start planning in January of the year prior to the trip. | |
| Planning tools and services are available to help create a personalized itinerary. | |
| Budget | Costs can vary depending on the courses played, accommodation, and transportation. |
| Some sources suggest a budget-friendly option is to include a mix of renowned and hidden gem courses. | |
| The cost of flying into Edinburgh or Inverness may be similar. | |
| Itinerary | It is recommended to choose two or three regions to focus on rather than trying to cover too much ground. |
| A mix of golf and non-golf activities can be planned, with one round of golf per day suggested to allow time for other experiences. | |
| The best weather is typically from mid-May to mid-September, considered the "high season." | |
| Shoulder months of April and October can also offer good weather. | |
| Transportation | When traveling between regions, driving times should be considered, as some destinations may be further apart than expected. |
| Accommodation | Options include B&Bs, home rentals, apartments, and hotels. |
| Currency | The UK, including Scotland, uses the GBP (£), while the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€). |
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What You'll Learn
Planning in advance: how early to book
Planning a trip to Scotland to play golf can be a daunting task, especially if it is your first time. The amount of advance notice required to plan a Scotland golf trip varies widely based on the areas visited and courses played.
If you are planning a trip to St Andrews, it is recommended to start planning in January of the year before your trip. The Old Course at St Andrews is particularly sought-after, with tee times released in April of the preceding year. These times go fast, so it is advised to secure your place on the waiting list as early as possible. Another popular course in the area, Carnoustie, opens its tee sheet shortly after St Andrews.
Other marquee courses in Scotland, such as Muirfield, also require early planning. Muirfield tee times become available in March of the preceding year and are usually fully booked soon after. The West Links at North Berwick and Gullane Golf Club are other popular courses in this region, with tee times typically becoming available closer to summer.
Planning a golf trip to Aberdeen and The Highlands requires less advance notice compared to St Andrews and East Lothian. However, it is still advisable to begin planning 9-12 months in advance, especially if you want to play at Royal Aberdeen, which has a limited visitor policy. Cruden Bay and Trump Aberdeen are other popular choices in this region.
When planning your trip, it is essential to consider the golf travel season in Scotland, which typically runs from April through October. While it is possible to travel outside of these months, the temperatures can be frigid, and some marquee courses may be closed.
To avoid disappointment, it is recommended to choose two or three regions to focus on during your trip, as the bucket list golf courses are spread across Scotland. This will allow you to play all the marquee courses in those areas without feeling rushed. Remember to consider taking a day off from golfing to explore local attractions and give your body a rest.
Overall, the key to planning a successful Scotland golf trip is to start early, be flexible, and choose your desired regions and courses wisely.
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Choosing a location: St Andrews, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, or elsewhere?
Choosing a location for your golf trip to Scotland can be a daunting task, with the country boasting over 550 courses, including links, parkland, and 9-hole courses. Scotland is also home to some of the world's most prestigious golf tournaments and has a rich history, with golf having been played here since at least the 15th century.
When it comes to deciding on a location, there are a few factors to consider. Do you want to focus on one region and explore its courses, or are you looking for a mix of city life and seaside golf? Here are some options to consider:
St Andrews
St Andrews is often regarded as the "Home of Golf". It has a rich history, with the Old Course hosting the most Opens of any course and is considered a dream destination for many golfers. The town itself offers a unique feeling that stays with you long after you leave. Planning a trip to St Andrews requires some advance booking, especially if you want to guarantee a spot on the Old Course tee sheet. The Advanced Ballot for tee times on the Old Course opens in late summer for the following summer, so early planning is essential. Aside from the Old Course, St Andrews also offers a range of other courses, such as the Castle Course, the New Course, the Jubilee Course, and nearby options like Golf House Club Elie and North Berwick.
Aberdeen
Aberdeen is another popular golf destination in Scotland. This region includes notable courses such as Royal Aberdeen, Cruden Bay, and Trump Aberdeen. Planning a trip to Aberdeen requires less advance notice compared to St Andrews, but it's still advisable to start 9-12 months in advance, especially if you want to visit the more exclusive Royal Aberdeen.
Edinburgh
For golfers who want to combine their love of the sport with the charm of a historic city, Edinburgh is an excellent choice. Muirfield, located in East Lothian, is one of the toughest tickets in Scotland, with visitor play allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The West Links at North Berwick, located on the Firth of Forth, offers stunning sea views. Planning a trip to Muirfield requires early booking, with tee times becoming available in March of the preceding year.
Ayrshire and the West Coast
If you want to walk in the footsteps of champions, Ayrshire and the West Coast are ideal. This region is the birthplace of The Open, and courses like Turnberry, Royal Troon, Prestwick Golf Club, and Western Gailes offer both challenging golf and scenic seaside holes.
The Highlands
The Highlands is a region that combines breathtaking natural beauty with world-class golf. Royal Dornoch is one of the highest-ranked courses globally, and the Cabot Highlands features modern designs alongside historic neighbors. Nairn Golf Club has hosted the Walker Cup, and Brora Golf Club offers a remote and rugged experience.
When choosing a location for your Scotland golf trip, consider the advance planning required, the type of experience you seek, and the variety of courses available. Remember, it's best to choose a few regions and explore their marquee courses rather than trying to cover too much ground in a single trip.
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Selecting courses: marquee, hidden gems, or a mix?
When planning a golf trip to Scotland, it's important to consider the type of courses you want to play. Do you want to focus on marquee courses, seek out hidden gems, or create a mix of both? Each option has its own advantages and can contribute to a memorable trip.
Opting for marquee courses means you'll be playing at some of the most prestigious and well-known golf destinations in Scotland. These include The Old Course at St. Andrews, Muirfield, Royal County Down, and Royal Portrush. These courses are often bucket list items for golfers and can provide a sense of prestige and accomplishment. However, tee times at these marquee courses can be highly competitive and are usually released in the spring of the year prior. Planning early is crucial to securing your desired tee times at these sought-after locations.
On the other hand, hidden gem courses offer a different kind of appeal. These are lesser-known golf destinations that provide a unique and memorable experience. Examples of hidden gems in Scotland include Crail Golfing Society, Murcar Links, Dunbar, Kilspindie, Brora, and Boat of Garten. These courses might be slightly off the beaten path, but they offer stunning views, challenging layouts, and a chance to discover something special beyond the famous names.
Creating a mix of marquee and hidden gem courses can provide a well-rounded golf trip experience. By combining marquee courses with their more understated counterparts, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You can tick off some of the big names from your bucket list while also discovering hidden gems that offer unique layouts, views, and experiences that cater to everyday golfers.
When deciding on the mix of courses, consider your group's preferences and dynamics. If you have a group of avid golfers, they might appreciate a balanced approach that showcases the diverse golf landscape of Scotland. By including marquee courses, you cater to their desire for prestige and the chance to play at world-renowned locations. At the same time, including hidden gems adds a layer of intrigue and offers opportunities to discover lesser-known gems that are no less impressive.
Additionally, consider the time you have available for your trip. If you're limited to a week or so, trying to fit in too many marquee courses across Scotland might be ambitious and tiring. In such cases, a mix of marquee and hidden gem courses within a specific region can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable itinerary. You can still experience the marquee courses while also exploring the hidden gems nearby, reducing travel time and providing a more localized but equally fulfilling golf trip.
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Budgeting: costs, accommodation, and travel
When budgeting for a golf trip to Scotland, it's important to consider costs, accommodation, and travel. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Costs
Golf trips to Scotland can vary widely in cost depending on your itinerary and choices. Green fees at marquee courses can be expensive, with some costing over £400. St Andrews, a popular golf destination, can also be costly due to high demand. Playing at bucket-list courses will increase the price of your trip.
To save money, consider striking a balance between marquee courses and lesser-known spots. Opting for cost-effective accommodations and transportation can also help reduce expenses. Booking tee times in advance may offer early bird discounts, and travelling during the shoulder season can provide savings, although this is becoming less common.
Accommodation
Accommodation is typically the single biggest expense of a golf trip to Scotland. The cost is influenced by your choice of single or double occupancy, with single rooms attracting a premium. Most golf tours are priced based on double occupancy, so choosing a single room can significantly impact your budget.
There are various accommodation options available, from private cottages and boutique lodgings near courses to luxury hotels. To save money, consider staying in smaller towns or less touristy areas. For example, Edinburgh and St Andrews are known for being expensive, while Aberdeen and Prestwick offer more affordable options.
Travel
Transportation is another significant expense. You can choose between self-driving, hiring a car, or using private transfers or chauffeurs. Self-driving or renting a car can be more economical, but hiring a driver with local knowledge can enhance your trip and make it more seamless.
Planning and Booking
It's recommended to start planning your trip early, as tee times at popular courses can get fully booked quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking tee times and accommodations in advance can help you secure better rates and avoid last-minute premium costs. Working with a knowledgeable tour operator can provide valuable insights and help you find cost-effective package deals.
Golf tour packages in Scotland cater to various budgets and typically include accommodation, tee times, and transportation. Customizing your itinerary allows you to tailor the trip to your preferences and budget.
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Non-golf activities: sightseeing, local attractions, and culture
While planning a golf trip to Scotland, it is important to keep in mind the non-golfing members of your group. Fortunately, Scotland has a lot to offer beyond its golf courses. Here are some suggestions for sightseeing, local attractions, and cultural experiences to include in your itinerary:
Edinburgh
The Scottish capital is a must-visit destination. Edinburgh Castle, which has dominated the city's skyline for centuries, is Scotland's most-visited paid-for attraction. The castle is home to the National War Museum, which showcases the impact of war on Scotland's history and features exhibits and artefacts. Edinburgh also offers bus tours, which allow visitors to discover the city's historic Old and New Towns, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The city is known for its arts, entertainment, and hospitality, with the main shopping thoroughfare being Princes Street. In August, Edinburgh hosts a world-renowned festival, making it a particularly vibrant, if expensive, time to visit.
St Andrews
St Andrews is famous not only for its golf courses but also for its university and ancient cathedral, which once housed the bones of St Andrew. The town provides a fascinating introduction to Scotland's history, with its castle and cathedral overlooking the city.
Stirling
Stirling is another of Scotland's historic cities, famed for its castle, which was once home to the Stuart dynasty. Stirling Castle is similar to Edinburgh Castle, as both are set atop extinct volcanoes.
Glasgow
Glasgow is known for its urban attractions, including the Glasgow Science Centre, which features interactive activities, shows, a planetarium, and an IMAX cinema. The city also offers cultural experiences such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is Scotland's most-visited free attraction.
The Highlands
The Highlands is a region of stunning natural landscapes, lochs, glens, and clan feuds. It is home to Culloden, Dunrobin Castle, and Loch Ness. Boat trips to the Isle of Arran or Ailsa Craig are also popular attractions.
Ayrshire
Ayrshire is known as 'Burns Country' for literary enthusiasts. Culzean Castle is the most significant historic building on the coastline, and boat trips to the Isle of Arran are also recommended.
When planning your trip, remember to consider the interests and preferences of your group to ensure that everyone has a memorable experience in Scotland.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on where you want to play. If you want to play at Muirfield, for example, you should start planning in January of the year before your trip as tee times become available in March and don't last long. Planning a trip to Aberdeen or The Highlands requires less advance notice than St Andrews and East Lothian.
It's important not to plan an overly ambitious itinerary. Many first-timers try to squeeze in as many big-name courses as possible, but these are spread across Scotland. Choose two or three regions and play all the marquee courses there. You should also consider taking a day off from golf to explore local attractions and give your body a rest.
You should research the currency you will need for your trip. USD is not accepted in the UK or Ireland. The UK uses GBP, and the Republic of Ireland uses the Euro. You should also be aware of the seasonality—the best weather is from mid-May to mid-September, but you can also get lucky in April and October.
