Discover Scotland: World-Class Golf for Every Budget

The Contrast of Golfing Climates: Paris vs. Scotland

Last week, I watched some Olympic golf at Le Golf National, just outside Paris, where the sun was shining brightly. Meanwhile, back home in West Central Scotland, the weather was far from sunny, with little risk of sunburn this season. Despite this, Scotland’s greenskeeping teams deserve immense credit for maintaining our golf courses in such excellent condition, especially given the challenging summer we’ve faced.

Scottish Courses Shine Despite Summer Weather

During recent visits to Royal Troon and Carnoustie for this year’s Open Championship and Seniors Open, I witnessed firsthand the superb condition of these classic links courses. Royal Troon, in particular, stood up well against the modern power hitters of the professional men’s tours, despite the challenging wind and rain on Saturday. The course’s penal rough and abundant pot bunkers added to the test, showcasing the excellent work of the greenskeepers.

The Open Experience: Networking and Enthusiasm

I had the privilege of attending both a practice day and the final day of The Open. Although the train service was chaotic on Wednesday, it provided an excellent opportunity for networking. Many international golf fans I met were thrilled to attend their first Open Championship. They weren’t fazed by the travel issues and genuinely enjoyed our “cooler” conditions. The refreshing breeze off The Firth of Clyde, in contrast to the oppressive heat and humidity of North American summers, was a welcome relief for many.

Scotland’s Railways and Golf: A Special Connection

A unique feature of Scotland’s golfing environment is the close relationship between our renowned links courses and the railways. This connection is especially evident on the route from Glasgow to Ayrshire. As we passed Irvine Golf Club, Gailes Links, Western Gailes, Dundonald, and Kilmarnock Barassie, I couldn’t help but feel proud to promote these superb courses to our international guests.

Accessing Scotland’s Great Links Courses

Many potential clients have questions about accessing Scotland’s famous links courses. I’m happy to confirm that, with a few rare exceptions, it’s entirely possible to play on the same tees, fairways, and greens where legendary Open Champions have competed. However, it’s important to book tee times well in advance for select courses, as demand continues to rise.

The Cost of Playing Scotland’s Top Courses

As a West of Scotland native, I may be biased, but I strongly recommend Ayrshire and Argyll for any passionate links golf fan. While I understand the supply and demand argument, it’s disheartening to see green fees escalate to levels where only the wealthiest golfers can enjoy Scotland’s finest courses.

The £1,000 Green Fee Debate: Turnberry’s Ailsa Course

Recently, Turnberry announced plans to charge a staggering £1,000 green fee for non-residents to play The Ailsa Open Championship Course during the 2025 season. This decision, reportedly made to prioritise hotel guests who struggle to secure morning tee times, has sparked widespread concern. While I understand the business rationale, I worry that this move will limit access to one of Scotland’s finest links courses.

Exploring Alternative Ayrshire Links

For £1,000, a golfer could choose between one morning round at Turnberry or a full week of golf at other top Ayrshire courses like Gailes Links, Western Gailes, Barassie, Royal Troon, and Prestwick. Alternatively, that budget could cover seven superb rounds at Gailes, Western Gailes, Barassie, Dundonald, West Kilbride, Prestwick St. Nicholas, and Irvine. These courses offer incredible value for money and unforgettable experiences.

Affordable Scottish Golf: Hidden Gems

I want to assure potential visitors that Scotland is home to many excellent golf courses with green fees under £100, with even better rates available for twilight rounds. Consider adding these courses to your next Scottish golf tour:

• Machrihanish Golf Club (Kintyre)
• Brora (Highlands)
• Nairn Dunbar (Highlands)
• Golspie (Highlands)
• Fortrose & Rosemarkie (Highlands)
• Tain (Highlands)
• Craigielaw (East Lothian)
• Kilspindie (East Lothian)

I’ve played them all and was warmly welcomed at each one. These courses offer very good golf at a very good price.