RANKED: The Top 200 Best Golf Courses in Scotland

What are the best golf courses in Scotland? Our expert panel has reviewed and ranked them so you can plan your dream visit to the Home of Golf.

This ranking of the best golf courses in Scotland ranking is refreshed every two years, and from the moment I completed the last one, two courses that weren’t even close to being open at that point have been on my mind.

Cabot Highlands’ Old Petty and Trump International’s New have long been slated for a 2025 opening, and I have been working towards their inclusion in this ranking. Happily, both courses opened on time. In addition, both agreed to be ranked. It would be easy to request not to be included at this stage, because they are naturally relatively raw. But we have had considerable panellist play of both and they make splash entries, albeit in positions that reflect their embryonic stage. I expect both to move up the list as Mother Nature matures these exciting fledgling links.

Their slots will be debated, I’m sure, but my overriding feeling, as a Scotsman, is that I am thrilled the country has two more world-class courses to its name. They offer two further compelling reasons to visit the north of Scotland, and they give that part of the country a remarkable 10 courses that feature in the Top 100 Best Courses in GB&I.

There are subtle changes all the way down and a lot of amendments to what is by far the most competitive ‘Next 100’ list I’ve compiled.

I hope you enjoy the ranking, and please do let me know what you think.

Chris Bertram, Top 100 Editor

How do you mark the best golf courses in Scotland?

Each shortlisted course was marked with a total of 100 marks awarded, in these criteria…

Design (40 marks) A key category, split into three sub-sections: Does the course take advantage of its landscape (20); the green complexes (10); the routing (10)?

Setting (15 marks) The aesthetic value of the surrounding views and the course itself. The overall ‘atmosphere’ of the course.

Memorability (15 marks) How easy is it to recall the holes? Are they distinctive, varied and interesting? Are they strategic and heroic?

Playability (10 marks) Is it just too tough, possibly even unfair, for the majority? Or is it easily enjoyed by all?

Consistency (10 marks) Does every hole deliver all of the above, or is it let down by a few poor ones?

Presentation (10 marks) Two aspects: is maintenance at ease with its surroundings? And the conditioning of tees, fairways, bunkers and greens.

In the event of a tie, the Top 100 Editor adjudicates based on the breadth of opinions across the panel. Off-course facilities, customer service and tournament pedigree play no part.

Who is on the Golf World Top 100 Scotland ranking panel?

Helping me compile the list was a stellar panel of Alan McPherson, Neal Stewart and Douglas Mill – who have played every course in Scotland – as well as David Walker, Scott Allan, Pam Allen, Mike Bailey, Callum Mitchell, Kenna Campbell, Billy Low, Nigel and Suzanne Butler, Michael Verity, Gareth Hill, Paul MacMichael, Stuart McLean, Iain Campbell, Paul Connor, James Reader, and Greg Watson – plus lead panellist Stuart Bendoris, who has played all of the 200.

If you think you could add a valuable voice to the panel then get in touch with us, here.

Which courses narrowly missed out on a place in the Scottish Top 100?

Whittling the courses in Scotland down to the best 100 is hard. Here are the ones that were closest to making it.

200. Fort Augustus

199. Kinghorn

198. Aberdour

197. Buckpool

196. Dalmahoy (West)

195. Newtonmore

194. Musselburgh Links

193. Alloa

192. Monifieth (Ashludie)

191. Peebles

190. Blairgowrie (Wee)

189. Thornhill

188. Cardona

187. Alyth

186. Isle of Skye

185. Murrayfield

184. Porthleven

183. Wick

182. Winterfield

181. Eyemouth

180. Ballindalloch Castle

179. Rothesay

178. Ratho Park

177. Dunblane

176. Dumfries & Galloway

175. Dunkeld & Birnam

174. Aberfoyle

173. Glencruitten

172. Dumfries & County

171. Cardross

170. Braemar

169. Comrie 

168. Troon (Lochgreen)

167. Gairloch

166. Balnagask

165. Carnoustie (Buddon)

164. Kingussie

163. Troon (Darley)

162. Pollok

161. Rowallan Castle

160. Inverness

159. Balbirnie Park

158. Muir of Ord

157. Corrie

156. Forres

155. Dunfermline 

154. Whalsay

153. Hopeman

152. Ballater

151. Bathgate

150. St Medan

149. Shetland (Dale)

148. Strathmore (Rannaleroch)

147. Aboyne

146. Hazlehead (MacKenzie)

145. Murrayshall (Murrayshall)

144. Kirriemuir

143. Buntisland

142. Traigh

141. Stormness

140. Stonehaven 

139. Cruden Bay (St Olaf)

138. Braid Hills (No.1)

137. Prestwick St Cuthbert

136. Gourock

135. Glasgow Killermont

134. Glencorse

133. Cullen

132. Covesea

131. Banchory

130. Isle of Harris

129. Millport

128. Carnwath

127. Crief (Ferntower)

126. Duddingston

125. Stirling 

124. Auchterarder

123. Deeside (Haughton)

122. Cawder

121. Royal Musselburgh

120. Haggs Castle 

119. Cathkin Braes

118. Inverallochy

117. Newburgh-on-Ythan

116. Mortonhall

115. Wigtownshire County

114. Crail (Craighhead) 

113. Kings (Inverness)

112. Ranfurly Castle 

111. Spey Bay 

110. Reay

109. Kemnay

108. Dalmahoy (East)

107. Royal Dornoch (East)

106. The Carrick

105. Meldrum House

104. Paisley 

103. Arbroath

102. Craigielaw

101. Royal Burgess

The Top 100 Best Golf Courses in Scotland

100. PITLOCHRY

PITLOCHRY, PERTHSHIRE

The lung-busting ascent of the opening three holes rewards golfers with sensational vistas in this picturesque gateway to the Highlands. Short, scenic and adorable.

99. THE ROXBURGHE

KELSO, BORDERS

A strong modern parkland with championship vibes but which remains playable for the higher handicapper. Sits in beautiful, tranquil Borders countryside and is presented exceptionally well.

98. ELGIN

ELGIN, HIGHLANDS

A confident, classy parkland, beautifully conditioned. A summer evening stroll around idyllic Elgin is one of life’s pleasures.

97. EAST RENFREWSHIRE

NEWTON MEARNS, RENFREWSHIRE

Shades of Gleneagles and Lanark abound amidst this rolling moorland cracker. Often unfairly overlooked on the road down to the Ayrshire big hitters.

96. MUSSELBURGH (MONKTONHALL)

MUSSELBURGH, EAST LOTHIAN

The ‘honest toun’ offers an honest test, none more so than on the lengthy last at this searching Regional Open qualifier.

95. CARNOUSTIE (BURNSIDE)

CARNOUSTIE, ANGUS

“An absolute joy to play from start to finish,” said one panellist. “As immaculately kept as its big brother, with greens indistinguishable from fairways.” A fine selection of par 3s and shorter par 4s, it flows well from tee to green, and the Barry Burn winds through several holes and adds drama.

94. FORFAR

FORFAR, ANGUS

The rippling fairways roll perpetually like waves between the Scotch pines. The wisdom of Old Tom Morris and James Braid is unmistakable throughout this serene routing.

93. GULLANE (NO.3)

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

Short on yardage, big on appeal. While No.3 does not beat you up physically or mentally and its allure is based around fun, views and enjoyment, the range of length of its par 4s make it a sufficient challenge for all.

92. KILMACOLM

KILMACOLM, RENFREWSHIRE

A sub-6,000-yard test, but one of James Braid’s finest. Lovely, natural shaping of holes, terrific variety and excellent maintenance. Some panellists would have it in the mid-80s of this list.

91. PORTPATRICK (DUNSKEY)

PORTPATRICK, GALLOWAY

A mix of rolling moorland and seaside heath that sits around 150 feet above sea level and thus enjoys wonderful views across the Irish Sea. I’ve long liked Dunskey and in the downhill par-4 13th it has an absolute cracker.

90. POWFOOT

ANNAN, DUMFRIESSHIRE

You’ve probably heard there is a quieter ‘inland’ mini phase here, but don’t let that put you off calling in as you drive up or down the M74. The majority of Powfoot is terrific links fare.

89. BRUNTSFIELD LINKS

EDINBURGH, MIDLOTHIAN

No move, essentially, for what we are certain is Edinburgh’s finest course – and it’s a competitive field. Tom Mackenzie’s work on this rolling parkland with views has been extensive and worthwhile.

88. NEWMACHAR (HAWKSHILL)

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

Your ‘A’ game is required at this exacting Dave Thomas-designed heathland. The austere trees shadowing the fairways are unforgiving for the errant.

87. KILMARNOCK BARASSIE

KILMARNOCK, AYRSHIRE

A course of two halves. The original holes are a joy, with excellent routing and classic green complexes, while the newer holes are straining to be a championship course and have never received quite the same acclaim.

86. GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY

GRANTOWN, HIGHLANDS

It’s only 5,710 yards, but a charming companion for the other ‘valley’ courses, namely Boat of Garten, Spey Valley and Kingussie. Well-presented and super views.

85. NAIRN DUNBAR

NAIRN, HIGHLANDS

The recent work to cut away trees has helped give the course a more links feel, but there is still a parkland sense. Expect generally wide fairways, forgiving rough and big greens.

84. FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS (KITTOCKS)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

A modern clifftop design overlooking the Auld Grey Toun, this DP World Tour host has wonderful coastal views.

83. THE GLEN

NORTH BERWICK, EAST LOTHIAN

East Lothian’s clifftop offering. Expect breathtaking views, some funky holes and some difficult questions to answer. Insta-worthy on so many holes.

82. GLENBERVIE

LARBERT, STIRLINGSHIRE

Not many parklands make it into this list, or into many other Top 100s for that matter, but Glenbervie is a fixture. Recent improvements maintain the position of this nice marriage of varied and exacting holes.

81. DURNESS

DURNESS, HIGHLANDS

The odyssey to Scotland’s best nine-holer is worth it for the spellbinding 8th and 9th alone. A heartwarming experience on a superb Highland links.

80. ST ANDREWS (EDEN)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

A Harry Colt original that was remodelled by Donald Steel and is a little less testing than its sisters. It crosses a railway track and has a pond in play on the 14th and 15th that befuddles some connoisseurs.

79. PRESTWICK ST NICHOLAS

PRESTWICK, AYRSHIRE

It starts and ends in fine fettle and the loop from the 4th to the 6th is particularly terrific. Lovely views all the way down the Firth of Clyde to Turnberry from this peaceful, unfussy links with delicious turf.

78. EDZELL

EDZELL, ANGUS

Storms felled hundreds of surrounding trees, but Edzell lost none of its charm. Springy turf and subtle greens, a joy to play.

77. LONGNIDDRY

LONGNIDDRY, EAST LOTHIAN

A nice rise for this mix of parkland and links, which has eight par 4s over 400 yards from the white tees and five from the yellows. It has no par 5s, but generous fairways and large greens make the course very playable, while strategically placed bunkers and trees keep you focused.

76. STRANRAER

STRANRAER, GALLOWAY

A peaceful loch-side setting provides good views on this well-presented parkland, but your attention cannot wane as the last four holes present a stern challenge.

75. FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS (TORRANCE)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

An epic setting and some unforgettable holes. There has been talk for a long time around the whole resort about reworking the courses, and I gather that is beginning to gather pace.

74. ROYAL TROON (PORTLAND)

TROON, AYRSHIRE

Suffers a little in comparison to the Old, but this is a links with wonderful turf, excellent routing and a set of varied par 3s. “A stronger No.2 course than County Down’s Annesley or Portrush’s Valley,” said one panellist.

73. IRVINE (BOGSIDE)

IRVINE, AYRSHIRE

A significant nudge up for this partly quirky links which also provides a stern test thanks to good bunker locations and fast, firm greens. However, it’s the fun on several risk-reward short par 4s that you really remember.

72. BLAIRGOWRIE (LANSDOWNE)

BLAIRGOWRIE, PERTHSHIRE

A peaceful setting and the tight, tree-lined fairways demand accuracy – especially on the inward half. Always well presented.

71. PETERHEAD

PETERHEAD, ABERDEEN

The first three holes are weaker, but it’s a fine links after that and has some memorable moments. It’s Aberdeenshire’s sometimes forgotten links, but it really shouldn’t be.

70. THE DUKE’S

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

This heathland on the outskirts of St Andrews is one of Scotland’s better non-links courses. Strategic bunkering means accurate driving and thoughtful approach shots are essential.

69. ARCHERFIELD (DIRLETON)

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

A very competent modern DJ Russell layout, where gorse clearance has added some extra playability. It rewards good shots.

68. TAIN

TAIN, HIGHLANDS

There’s a sense of natural Highland sporty rawness at this traditional links, which presents some fine views and is more than a good challenge. It has a very welcome sense of isolation.

67. DOWNFIELD

DUNDEE, ANGUS

A tranquil, aesthetically pleasing parkland on the outskirts of Dundee which boasts a fine portfolio of three-shot holes and is one of Scotland’s top inland courses.

66. DUFF HOUSE ROYAL

BANFF, ABERDEENSHIRE

An Alister MacKenzie parkland where, unsurprisingly, strategy is key to plotting your way through trees and avoiding the River Deveron, which threatens your card on several holes.

65. WEST KILBRIDE

SEAMILL, AYRSHIRE

An out-and-back links that is year-round in excellent condition, with fantastic views of Arran from every hole. The 3rd feels a little more parkland in character but the coastal back nine is wonderful.

64. MONIFIETH

MONIFIETH, ANGUS

This Open Final Qualifying venue has a nice balance between challenge and fun, as well as firm links turf. The epitome of a Scottish links, to my mind.

63. GLENEAGLES (CENTENARY)

AUCHTERARDER, PERTH

“The 2014 Ryder Cup venue is underrated due to the fact that it is primarily a buggy course,” said one panellist. “The holes and routing were interesting and used the land well.” It may be the No.3 at Gleneagles, but it still has plenty of appeal.

62. TURNBERRY (KING ROBERT THE BRUCE)

TURNBERRY, AYRSHIRE

Any golfer travelling here to play the Ailsa and overlooking this superb links is making a big mistake. It’s been astutely enhanced by Martin Ebert’s routing alterations along the rugged coastline.

61. SPEY VALLEY

AVIEMORE, HIGHLANDS

A championship-calibre challenge with Highland views to match. Avoid the abundant heather to score well and ensure you lap up the scenery.

60. ST ANDREWS (JUBILEE)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

The Jubilee jumped nine spots last time and this is definitely its level. Known as St Andrews’ toughest test but it is by no means unforgiving or lacking in character.

59. MORAY (NEW)

LOSSIEMOUTH, HIGHLANDS

Unfussy northerly links where accuracy is utmost given the lurking gorse. Low-flying fighter jets keep a watch overhead.

58. DUNAVERTY

SOUTHEND, ARGYLL & BUTE

Dunaverty wasn’t in the original Scotland Top 100 in 2011 but is now established in the 50s. Quirky at times, but a scenic and adventurous links on the Kintyre Peninsula.

57. LEVEN

LEVEN, FIFE

A notable rise for this fast-running links with large greens and one of the toughest closing holes in Scotland.

56. SCOTSCRAIG

TAYPORT, FIFE

Links and heathland characteristics predominate. Springy turf presents fast-running fairways while firm, well-bunkered greens maintain the challenge throughout. A tough test that requires your ‘A’ game.

55. GOLSPIE

GOLSPIE, HIGHLANDS

Six good links holes to start, then you turn inland and could be in the Surrey sandbelt. The last few holes aren’t quite of the standard of what went before, but an essential stop on a Highlands itinerary.

54. ASKERNISH

SOUTH UIST, WESTERN ISLES

From the 7th onwards, this Old Tom classic offers an adrenaline ride traversing the remarkable rollercoaster dunescape. The topography and routing at Askernish are uniquely, sensationally bonkers.

53. LADYBANK

LADYBANK, FIFE

Fife’s inland gem. A tranquil, pine-lined affair that is a delightful change in emphasis from its world-class, blustery links.

52. KILSPINDIE

ABERLADY, EAST LOTHIAN

One of the list’s shortest courses but arguably one of its most enjoyable. It starts with a par 3 and has an absolutely gorgeous short hole at the 8th in between many sporty par 4s that look easy on the card but are enjoyably tricky in reality. Some terrific coastal holes.

51. FORTROSE & ROSEMARKIE

INVERNESS, HIGHLANDS

Breezy, fiery fairways, dolphin sightings and a beautiful setting more than make up for the relatively small terrain changes and simple green sites. A small-but-perfectly-formed Highlands beauty.

50. CRAIL (BALCOMIE)

CRAIL, FIFE

The panel enthused about its gorgeous setting and fun holes. A proper test, and this is a well-deserved return to the top 50.

49. LUNDIN

LUNDIN, FIFE

The vast majority of the holes are quality and it’s a compelling test.

48. LANARK

LANARK, LANARKSHIRE

Stays in the same position as 2023 despite the two newcomers, testament to our affection for this always interesting moorland. Make sure you stop off if you’re heading along the M74.

47. ARCHERFIELD (FIDRA)

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

Sea views are limited despite its coastal location, but the Fidra is a varied, strong, modern course. Atmospherically, it begins among pine trees before opening out onto linksy terrain. Well presented.

46. BLAIRGOWRIE (ROSEMOUNT)

BLAIRGOWRIE, PERTH

Completes Scotland’s top five inland courses. The Rosemount plays between mature pines and various other trees and can feel a little claustrophobic in places, so its 6,600 yards are a serious examination.

James Braid and Alister MacKenzie worked on the Rosemount and a renovation by a skilled architect would reap rewards.

45. MONTROSE (1562)

MONTROSE, ANGUS

The fifth-oldest course in the world and as you may well have heard, sadly being battered by erosion to its coastline. It has a magnificent start, with the North Sea very much in play on the 2nd followed by the much-copied short 3rd, ‘Table’.

44. GULLANE (NO.2)

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

Centuries-old links turf, silky greens, elevation shifts offering endless panoramas – No.2 has it all. And No.44 is the very least it deserves.

43. GAILES LINKS

IRVINE, AYRSHIRE

You’ll need to play well to score well on this testing links. Wispy rough, heather and gorse frame many of the gently undulating fairways. And there’s no rest until you have putted out on the sporty greens.

42. MORAY (OLD)

LOSSIEMOUTH, HIGHLANDS

The Old boasts one of golf’s great finishing holes and is preceded by bags of traditional Scottish links charm.

It blends quirkiness, exciting bunkering, top-class greens and atmosphere aplenty.

Links lovers love Moray.

41. LUFFNESS

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

“Unfussy, but with unrelenting quality. Feels like it flies a little under the radar and could certainly justify residing closer to 30 than 40.”

That was one panellist’s verdict and it would certainly sit comfortably there.

40. FRASERBURGH

FRASERBURGH, ABERDEENSHIRE

“Deserves its place high in the Next 100 of the GB&I ranking,” noted one panellist, “an excellent layout – scenic and great fun to play.” I couldn’t agree more. Just look at the prestigious names it is above in this list.

39. SHISKINE

ARRAN, ARGYLL & BUTE

A little drop for this cute 12-holer on Arran. I am a huge fan, but it is leapfrogged by 18-hole Murcar and Boat this time. It might have 33% fewer holes, but Shiskine sits perfectly in its compact seaside site and is simply joyous.

38. BOAT OF GARTEN

AVIEMORE, HIGHLANDS

Expect a spellbinding Highlands setting and some compelling holes to match.

37. DUNDONALD

IRVINE, AYRSHIRE

Quickly matured into a significant addition to the Ayrshire golf menu, with generous fairways and engaging greens complexes.

36. MURCAR

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

Not the huge dunes of its Aberdeenshire neighbours, but consistently interesting holes on delightful links terrain. Rolling fairways, strong bunkering, and tight fairways demand accuracy from the tee in order to score well on this entertaining classic Scottish links that has seen recent impressive investment

35. ST ANDREWS (CASTLE)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

I’m happy that some of the ‘noise’ around the Castle has faded away, although I suspect those early themes still linger in some minds. A wonderful setting and some cracking holes for this modern course on elevated terrain outside the town.

34. CABOT HIGHLANDS (OLD PETTY)

INVERNESS, HIGHLAND

The setting is magnificent – the holes alongside and especially looking towards the Moray Firth gave me a feel of Skibo Castle and Loch Evelix – but it is not as jaw-dropping as Castle Stuart, and those who prioritise views will come here and feel a little underwhelmed in comparison. I get that. Plenty of golfers want to be wowed. Those who want to have their golfing wits engaged and their shot-making gently tested will adore it, though.

This is a course of compelling holes that effortlessly hold your attention. This is golf to play rather than take lots and lots of pictures of – although I should say, this is only relative to its spectacular sister, because make no mistake, Old Petty is very beautiful in its own right.

33. PANMURE

CARNOUSTIE, ANGUS

Also now firmly in the Top GB&I conversations, Panmure has a relatively low-key start but is absolutely majestic by the middle of the front nine. Bursting with character and memorable holes. A classy heathy links.

32. DUNBAR

DUNBAR, EAST LOTHIAN

Moves up one despite a new entry above it and is right in GB&I contention. A back nine that hugs the coast loses little in comparison with any in this list – those nine and the gorgeous springy turf are the stars of the show. Impossible not to love Dunbar.

31. TRUMP SCOTLAND (NEW)

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

This is probably a cautious opening position for a course I do not believe will end up too far behind the Old at Trump Scotland.

The design team that created the New did a very good job on a site that is relatively quiet in the opening and closing phases.

It is a course of phases, with the pyrotechnics in the middle. The start has some good holes though, travelling over wetland that has been converted to linksy holes using sand from the awesome ‘southern dome’ that is home to that spectacular middle section. The sight of ponds on a links discombobulate some and outrage links connoisseurs, but the holes themselves are solid and are far from a weak start.

The 5th and 6th are then in a heathy section and are followed by the uphill, eye-catching short 7th. From 8 to 14, though, come the real highlights. There are some holes, scenes, shots and moments that rival and probably surpass Trump (Old) for me – and bear in mind the Old is a World Top 100 entry.

I suspect that in time, the juxtaposition of pristine fairway and rough will be graduated and that will make it more playable; in a stiff wind, you currently need to hit good tee shots or get lucky in the rough. It is not otherwise overtly penal, despite suggestions I’ve heard that the greens are ‘sporty’ – I thought their movement was harnessed by their scale. In that respect, the 15th green is a real standout.

The view from the 9th – whether on the tee or behind the green – complete with a massive blow-out bunker to the left, is epic. That takes you to the southernmost point on the site, and from there you turn round and play the sporty two-shot 10th. The bold will have a go at driving this short par 4, although it really does have to be a fine shot to hold what is a shallow green.

The 11th also plays right along the coastline, and its greenside view is spectacular. Ditto the 12th, the shortest hole on the course and home to a green oozing movement and fun putts. The 13th offers another breathtaking tee view while the sporty, semi-blind 14th is packed with intrigue.

The closing quartet don’t quite have that same aesthetic appeal and drama, but the green shaping means you remain engaged and while the 18th might feel a long way up as you climb to the highest point on the property, the selfie opportunities with the North Sea behind are plentiful.

30. SOUTHERNESS

SOUTHERNESS, DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

“Queen of the South. An awesome course that is well worth the journey. Play well here and you can play well anywhere,” says one panelist. A long-time GB&I Top 100 course, Southerness was designed by Philip Mackenzie Ross and hits some real highs coming home.

It is relatively short, but a terrific examination. A par 69 and SSS 73 with tough par 4s – eight of the 11 weigh in at over 400 yards. Quite a few dog-legs and a lot of the greens are fronted by swales and mounds.

29. THE RENAISSANCE CLUB

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

Has improved with age and flow is much better. The land, cut through pine forest, is more Archerfield than Muirfield at times, even if there has been a program to make it more linksy and remove trees, in addition to the three new holes.

The holes before and after the turn are terrific, the sloping greens are fiendish and it takes its place among Scotland’s modern greats.

28. ST ANDREWS (NEW)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

A course that splits the panel. Some suggest it is as good as the Old and could be in the top 25, while others feel the holes are pleasant but that the gorse reduces playability. This is indubitably a cerebral, interesting, and nuanced links that is rightly established in the top 30, though.

27. BRORA

BRORA, HIGHLANDS

Rugged golf over rumpled fairways. There’s no substitution for great golf land and Brora has it in spades.

It came back from the financial brink – and it is testament to its charm and character that so many worldwide pitched in to save this Braid masterpiece.

Simple but brilliant and, in the par-4 17th, it is home to one of the best golf holes in Scotland.

26. ELIE

EARLSFERRY, FIFE

We have been mooting Elie as underrated for some time and it deserves to retain its spot in the top 30. James Braid’s home links starts with a blind tee shot that signals the fun that follows. A breathtaking seaside stretch means it has something for everyone and it boasts the best greens in Scotland.

25. MACHRIHANISH DUNES

CAMPBELTOWN, ARGYLL

A tough ask to be anywhere near as entertaining as neighboring Mach Old, but Mach Dunes makes a good fist of it! Some crazily good green sites by David McLay Kidd, at least partly a result of its sensitive construction. A beautiful, interesting course that is a fixture in the top 25.

24. GLENEAGLES (QUEEN’S)

AUCHTERARDER, PERTHSHIRE

It began life as a nine-hole relief course, but is a world-class moorland. The cute sister to the King’s is the course many of us have the fondest memories of at one of the world’s best golf resorts. Playable and scoreable if you are hitting it well and always with heaps of entertainment.

Strong par 4s with pretty holes around a loch and a picturesque finish.

23. DUMBARNIE

UPPER LARGO, FIFE

The Clive Clark links is so playable, so scenic and so easy to enjoy. Lots of fun and lots of holes you can instantly recall. To rank this high so quickly is a testament to its appeal.

22. GULLANE (NO.1)

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

You are already wrapped up in the charm of Gullane before you even tee off on No.1 – which is clearly the pick of its three fine links – due to the 1st tee being in the golf-dominated town itself.

The expansive greens are terrific and it has some fabulous views, with the 360-degree vista from the 7th among the best anywhere. Just lacks a little of the dazzle of top-10 links.

21. NAIRN

NAIRN, HIGHLANDS

Nairn is one of the great links of Britain and Ireland, a venue for the 1999 Walker Cup as well as the 2012 Curtis Cup. It’s a fair bet many of the elite amateurs on those four teams will have left the links and remarked on Nairn’s greens, often by struggling to recall putting on better surfaces in their lives.

There is a glorious shimmer to them and they putt as well as they look. Fail to make a few mid-range putts here, and you know there is only one thing to blame… you.

20. THE MACHRIE

ISLAY, ARGYLL

“This playable Islay links is island golf at its finest, DJ Russell’s enhancements are wonderful,” says one panelist.

Creative shot-making and strategic thinking are required on every hole. The setting is fabulous, it is beautifully presented, loads of fun, and it’s now categorically one of Scotland’s best links.

19. WESTERN GAILES

IRVINE, AYRSHIRE

For some panelists, this is the best course in the area. The views are glorious, and the rumpled land even better. It is in our World Top 100 and, because it does not have an especially high profile, some may be surprised by that – but not anyone who has been.

Set between the railway and the sea, from the 5th to the 13th is an immense test in a breeze. Burns are in play on a number of holes and green slopes can be difficult to read. Tough and unremittingly excellent.

18. MACHRIHANISH

CAMPBELTOWN, ARGYLL

Old Tom Morris at his very best. From the moment you tee the ball up on the famous 1st tee, you know you’re somewhere special. The holes arguably get better and better over that front nine, winding through towering dunes. The links runs out of steam on the back nine slightly, but anything seems sedate compared with the first dozen.

17. GLENEAGLES (KING’S)

AUCHTERARDER, PERTHSHIRE

James Braid’s imaginative moorland masterpiece sits in delightful scenery among the Ochil Hills and it is one of the best inland golf courses in Britain (and highest ranked in this list).

Packed full of majestic holes, the blind shots add to both the fun and the challenge.

16. ROYAL ABERDEEN

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

You’ve heard all about the front nine, but the back isn’t bad, either and tests every club in your bag. After a wonderful start playing down towards the North Sea, the front half plays through a dune valley that could have been made for golf. Then you make an about-turn to play on the higher ground coming home. Changes are mooted here; we love it just the way it is. A class links.

15. LOCH LOMOND

HELENSBURGH, DUNBARTONSHIRE

How much strength in depth does Scotland have for Loch Lomond to be 15th? Sensational location as everyone knows, but also some admirable design work by Tom Weiskopf.

“The fairways are as dry as a heathland with a completely different feel underfoot to how it used to be,” reports one panelist of Loch Lomond’s costly agronomic transformation.

We can only see the former European Tour venue climbing up future lists. Breathtaking setting and often underrated design work.

14. PRESTWICK

PRESTWICK, AYSHIRE

The original Open Championship course is a unique layout packed with blind shots, fun and thrills, right from the moment you select a 7-iron for your opening shot… on a par 4. It only falls because of Castle Stuart’s rise; we love it.

You could never build a course like this these days, but thank goodness they did 150+ years ago. Two of the most iconic bunkers you will find anywhere and so many iconic and memorable holes.

13. SKIBO CASTLE

DORNOCH, HIGHLANDS

This gorse-covered links, designed 25 years ago, has been refurbished over the past decade under the eyes of David Thomson and Tom Mackenzie to produce a significantly more inspired proposition. Incredibly well presented, it is varied, interesting and truly beautiful – as well as seriously exacting. One of the truly sublime golf experiences with a location to die for.

12. TRUMP INTERNATIONAL (OLD)

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

“Simply stunning,” says one panelist of this high-octane links that’s never been better presented.

Carved between some of the tallest dunes you can experience in Britain, its fairways are generally generous, but if you miss them it is a certain lost ball for the marram that holds the dunes in place is thick.

As the marks indicate, it lacks the design chops to be even higher – but setting and memorability are undisputed.

11. CASTLE STUART

INVERNESS, HIGHLANDS

Wonderful all-rounder with a great mix of risk and reward and a terrific set of greens. Challenges the low player, but very playable for all levels. Makes maximum use of the views and landscape and is established as a modern great.

The affection for Gil Hanse’s Highlands work is strong.

10. ROYAL TROON

TROON, AYRSHIRE

Troon definitely splits the panel. Some find the first few a little modest before the links comes alive on the 7th tee with perhaps the best hole on the course – which is some compliment given what follows it.

In the par-3 8th – the Postage Stamp – Troon is home to one of the best golf holes in Britain and Ireland. The route back includes some interesting – and exacting – holes. Beautifully manicured.

9. CRUDEN BAY

ABERDEEN, ABERDEENSHIRE

The best golf course in Aberdeenshire slightly splits opinion on the panel; some revel in the eccentricity and memorable holes – with an exceptional run from the 3rd to the 8th – and think it could threaten the top five; others think there are too many weak holes for it to be quite so high.

It showcases one of golf’s great routings with the figure of eight around Port Errol. Crossing over in the middle, the views from the elevated 9th tee are glorious. The holes around the turn may be weaker and cost it in ‘consistency’, but it almost feels churlish for this rivals North Berwick for fun factor.

Read our full review of Cruden Bay.

8. ARDFIN

JURA, ARGYLL

“Words do not do Ardfin justice. Bob Harrison has built a spectacular course worthy of the setting,” says one panelist.

“I was blown away by the setting and the outstanding design,” says another.

“The run from the 8th to the 14th may be the most spectacular run in all of Scotland,” adds a third.

But… Ardfin is difficult and that might see its ascent stop here. It is achingly beautiful, though, and an instant bucket list course.

7. CARNOUSTIE (CHAMPIONSHIP)

CARNOUSTIE, ANGUS

Carnoustie can match almost any course in almost any category in all but playability and setting, but even with those setbacks it still slots into seventh. Is there a weak hole on the course? We’d need some convincing.

Jack Nicklaus says it’s the toughest course on The Open rota, and it’s hard to disagree, especially if the wind blows. Perfect links presentation and a relentlessly fine challenge, with an all-world climax.

Read our full review of Carnoustie’s Championship course.

6. KINGSBARNS

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

Most panelists’ favorite of the modern Scottish courses and No.1 in our ranking of the best new golf courses in Europe.

If you didn’t know how much earth had been moved to construct the rolling ‘linksland’, you’d swear it had been there since time began. Views of the Forth abound on every hole. Playable, but with just the right amount of challenge by Kyle Phillips. 

Read our full review of Kingsbarns.

5. NORTH BERWICK

NORTH BERWICK, EAST LOTHIAN

Puts a huge tick in boxes marked ‘memorability’, ‘aesthetics’, ‘design’ – and, increasingly, also ‘conditioning’. Quirky with a capital Q.

The West Links remains fertile ground for architectural ideas that have been exported around the world. From the ‘Pit’ to ‘Perfection’, the Biarritz to the Redan, it has it all. Once is never enough. As entertaining as the game can be in a championship setting. We have so much affection for it.

Read our full review of North Berwick.

4. MUIRFIELD

GULLANE, EAST LOTHIAN

The golfers’ golf course and for good reason the favorite Open venue for the pros. One of the best links golf courses in Britain and Ireland, it’s No.1 for several on the panel and, as an examination of your game, it has no peer in Scotland, or arguably Britain and Ireland.

What it lacks in obvious aesthetics it more than compensates for in quality, conditioning, and the exam paper it sets.

“Perhaps more should take inspiration from Muirfield’s ingenious layout,” says one panelist, of the front nine sweeping clockwise around the perimeter and the second nine playing within this loop. The changes of direction make it a constant test of brain and brawn.

It has superb bunkering and often-ignored varied greens.

Read our full review of Muirfield.

3. ROYAL DORNOCH

DORNOCH, HIGHLANDS

The best golf course in the Highlands and one of our panelist’s favorite golf courses in Britain. Another would have Dornoch at No.2… at worst. “To my mind, Dornoch has the best-combined set of par 3s I have played anywhere in the world,” says another.

It boasts the most mind-bending green complexes, the perfect balance of long holes, short 4s, ‘gettable’ par 5s and terrifying 3s. The split-level 8th is so good it inspired holes elsewhere in this ranking at modern greats Castle Stuart and Kingsbarns. It starts relatively sedately, but the rest of the front nine is truly epic, with the view from the 7th tee one of best in the game. A brilliant run from the 13th ensures you leave Dornoch having fallen in love.

Read our full review of Royal Dornoch.

2. TURNBERRY (AILSA)

TURNBERRY, AYRSHIRE

Will Turnberry ever host The Open again? It appears the ‘Trump’ name being above the door could deny us a chance to see the world’s best head for Ayrshire’s top course anytime soon, but that doesn’t have any impact on our ranking of what is a phenomenal golf course.

Those who lap up scenery would have the Ailsa top of the pile, and it would be a worthy No.1. It is now, at some points, literally unrecognizable following Martin Ebert’s masterful overhaul, offering memorable holes and a setting better than almost anywhere in the world, not just Scotland.

Couple it with a round on the King Robert course (59th on this list), and a stay at what is one of the world’s best golf resorts and you’ve got a bucket-list golf weekend.

Read our full review of the Ailsa course.

1. ST ANDREWS (OLD)

ST ANDREWS, FIFE

Golfing nirvana. It’s no surprise that our No.1 course in the world, No.1 golf course in Britain (and the best in Fife) is also our best golf course in Scotland.

The magisterial links is the perfect blend of strategy, history, and occasion. There are people who say those latter two elements do not deserve to be included in a ‘course’ ranking, but they are inextricable aspects of the Old, just as much as the views around the turn are to Turnberry’s Ailsa.

It divides opinion, as we found when we asked experts to tell us why the Old Course is the best in Britain, with many claiming that it wouldn’t be the same course without the aura.

But the Old is about so much more than that. The way it uses the modest contours of the land, the trip down to the Eden and the loop beside it, how the links is incorporated into the town and its peerless memorability mean it is worthy of its place right at the top of our ranking.

Is the Old Course too easy? All standards of golfer can nudge their way around the course, but you have to plot your way and play exceptionally to score well on it.

The greens are as good as it gets, and the balance of the holes is just right. Our top four are all world-class and all would be worthy No.1s, but we are sure we have the top spot correct.

Read our full review of St Andrews’ Old Course.

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