Golfing in Scotland
Tips for Golfing Scotland's Famous and not so Famous Courses
A guide to golfing St Andrews and other historical golf courses in Scotland including Scottish Island courses. Winter Golf at St Andrews Old Course
Golfing Scotland: The Birthplace of Golf
Game First Played:
The first game of golf is said to have been played in 1457 in St. Andrews, but many experts believe a version of the game may have been played as early as the mid 1300's. The game first developed on the east coast of Scotland, where there is less rainfall.Consequently, the ball, a knot of feathers, lasted longer.
Most famous Golf Course:
Without a doubt, the Old Course at St. Andrews. There are six courses in the town all owned by the St. Andrews Links Trust. A seventh course is being built on the outskirts of town. The Old Course has hosted more British Opens than any other course in the British Isles. From the first tee, the course looks more manageable than what a golfer might expect from what he has seen on TV or in pictures. Because St. Andrews is a tourist town for golfers and non golfers alike, there is always a gallery at the first tee. You will have an audience as you tee off.
Golfing St. Andrews:
There is usually no problem getting a tee time in St. Andrews, if you want to golf the other five courses. Currently, there is a two- year waiting list for the Old Course. You can enter a daily lottery for a tee time the following day. In August, your odds are approximately 1 in 4. If you show up before the first round in the morning, the starter may get you out with a group that has less than four players. Consider golfing the Old Course in winter. The weather is not much worse, the fees are considerably lower and there is less competition. Minimum handicap requirements apply.
Visiting St Andrews:
Thanks to weather conditions, visitors driving into town via the scenic route from Edinburgh, are often greeted by a rainbow. While wandering the ancient streets, stop by the shops that proudly display Old Course photos and mementos. Don't miss the British Golf Museum where you can retrace 500 years of golf history. The award - winning tourist attraction sits across the street from the Royal and Ancient Golf Club. Founded in 1754, the RA is the home of the development body that sets the rules for world golf. Stop by the pubs for good advice on where the locals play.
Scottish Royal Golf Courses:
To explore other significant areas of golf history, visit Carnoustie, Troon, Gullane, Gleneagles, Blairgowrie and Durnock. If you can't get on the Carnoustie course, try the nearby Panmure Golf course. Remember, scoring a tee time at any course with a Royal attached to its name will be tricky. The important courses all have minimum handicap requirements too, usually in the 24-28 range for men, 34-36 for women. The majority of Scottish courses do not require a handicap rating and not all are expensive. You can play one of Scotland's oldest, The Edinburgh Musselburg Links, for $20.00 US.
Scottish Island Hopping:
For an off the beaten track Scottish golf experience, head to Scotland's many island courses. Here you can experience playing the elements in true links style, the wild way that golf was meant to be played. Try the Isle of Harris Golf Course in the Outer Hebrides. Don't forget to leave your green fees in the honesty box. The Isle of Skye, Arran Island (Miniature Scotland) and the three courses at Orkney are all worth visiting. Don't miss Stromness for the exposed links and the incredible views. Shetland Island has three courses including Whalsay, the most northerly 18 holes in the British Isles.
