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Scotland is universally known as the Home of Golf, offering some of the finest and most historic courses anywhere in the world.
If you’re planning a golf tour, Scotland is hard to beat. With legendary links layouts, dramatic coastal scenery, and centuries of golfing tradition, the country delivers an unforgettable experience for golfers of all levels.
From iconic championship venues to stunning seaside gems, these are six must-play golf courses to include on your Scotland golf holiday.
Here we look at six mut play courses in the country…
No golf tour in Scotland is complete without playing the Old Course at St Andrews. Known worldwide as the “Home of Golf,” this historic links is one of the most famous courses ever built. With its wide fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable coastal winds, it offers a true test of traditional Scottish golf.
Beyond the course, St Andrews itself is a bucket-list destination. It’s filled with golf history, lively pubs, and a unique atmosphere that every golfer should experience at least once.
Signature hole: The most famous is the 17th “Road Hole,” where golfers must drive over the Old Course Hotel. And then face one of the toughest greens in golf, protected by the notorious Road Bunker.
Location & transport: St Andrews is located in Fife on Scotland’s east coast. The nearest major airport is Edinburgh Airport (around 1.5 hours away), with regular train connections via Leuchars Station and short taxi transfers into town.
North Berwick West Links is one of Scotland’s most enjoyable and character-filled seaside courses, located just outside Edinburgh. This classic links is famous for its creative hole designs and consistently ranks among the best courses in the world.
Signature hole: North Berwick is home to the original 15th hole “Redan,” one of the most copied par-3 designs in golf, featuring a sloping green guarded by deep bunkers. It’s an ideal stop for golfers looking to experience authentic Scottish links without the crowds of St Andrews.
Location & transport: North Berwick sits along Scotland’s famous Golf Coast, only 40 minutes from Edinburgh. It is easily reached by train from Edinburgh Waverley Station, making it one of the most accessible top links courses for international visitors.
Kingsbarns is one of Scotland’s premier modern links courses and a favourite on many luxury golf itineraries. Set along the stunning coastline near St Andrews, Kingsbarns offers immaculate conditioning, wide fairways, and breathtaking sea views throughout the round.
Signature hole: The par-5 12th hole is a standout, running directly along the coastline with panoramic views and risk-reward opportunities that make it unforgettable for visiting golfers. Its welcoming approach to travellers makes it a popular choice for those seeking a world-class Scottish golf experience.
Location & transport: Kingsbarns is located about 15 minutes from St Andrews, making it an easy addition to an east coast itinerary. Visitors typically travel via Edinburgh Airport or Dundee Airport, then transfer by car or arranged golf transport.
Average cost per round: £330–£380 per person
Gullane Golf Club is a standout destination on Scotland’s Golf Coast, offering spectacular links golf with views across the Firth of Forth. With three excellent courses on site, Gullane provides options for both championship-level players and those seeking a more relaxed round.
The town of Gullane is also a wonderful base for exploring nearby courses such as Muirfield, making it a strong addition to any Scotland golf tour.
Signature hole: The championship Course No.1 features a memorable stretch around the 7th and 8th holes, where elevated tee shots reveal sweeping coastal views and demanding approach play in the wind.
Location & transport: Gullane is located about one hour from Edinburgh Airport by road. The nearest train station is in North Berwick, with short onward taxi transfers. Its proximity to the capital makes it ideal for golfers combining city and coastal travel.
The King’s Course at Gleneagles is one of Scotland’s most famous inland courses and a key stop for golfers seeking variety beyond the links. Surrounded by rolling Perthshire countryside, the course combines classic design with outstanding resort-level service.
Signature hole: The par-3 13th hole, played across a scenic valley with the Ochil Hills as a backdrop, is one of the most photographed inland holes in Scotland. Gleneagles is perfect for golfers who want championship golf alongside luxury accommodation, dining, and spa experiences.
Location & transport: Gleneagles is in central Scotland, about 1 hour from both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. The resort has its own railway station, making it one of the easiest luxury golf venues to reach without a car.
Cruden Bay is one of Scotland’s most scenic and memorable hidden gems, located along the rugged Aberdeenshire coast. Known for its dramatic dunes, quirky layout, and stunning views of the North Sea, Cruden Bay offers a traditional links experience full of character.
Signature hole: The par-4 4th hole is often considered the masterpiece of the course, playing through towering dunes with a breathtaking view of the coastline opening up ahead. It’s a favourite among golf purists and travellers seeking a truly unique, less commercial venue than the major championship venues.
Location & transport: Cruden Bay lies about 40 minutes north of Aberdeen, with Aberdeen International Airport offering flights from major UK and European hubs. The area is best reached by car or private transfer, often as part of a northeast golf route.
Whether you’re dreaming of St Andrews or discovering hidden gems like Cruden Bay, Scotland offers a golf experience unlike anywhere else on earth.
From championship links to luxury resorts and coastal classics, these six courses represent the very best of what a Scottish golf holiday can deliver.
If you’re building a golf tour itinerary, aim to mix famous venues with lesser-known treasures — and enjoy the landscapes, history, and tradition that make Scotland the ultimate golf destination.
Ian is the Editor of The Social Golfer. He has been reviewing golf courses for more than ten years. Ian was the Marketing Director of the London Golf Show from 2011-2016. He has had golf articles published in Golf News Magazine, Today’s Golfer and Golf Business News. Ian is also the Communications Director for The Cairns Cup (Golf’s Premier Disability Match Play Event).
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