The Perfect Scotland Golf Itinerary
From St. Andrews to the Highlands
You may have dreamed about walking across the legendary Swilcan Bridge at St. Andrews, standing where legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have competed. But planning a Scotland golf trip can be overwhelming! Booking a tee time at the Old Course can feel impossible. You may be unsure which Highland courses are worth the drive ~ and overall, you’re just not sure where to start. This guide breaks down everything you need to create the perfect Scotland golf itinerary: an unforgettable journey from St. Andrews up to Scotland’s stunning northern links.
The scenery in Scotland is perfect for an epic golf trip.
Why Scotland Deserves a Spot on Every Golfer’s Bucket List
Scotland isn’t just another golf destination. It’s the birthplace of the game, with over 550 courses packed into a relatively small geographic area. You can play legendary layouts without spending your entire trip in the car.
What sets Scottish golf apart is its accessibility. Unlike many prestigious courses elsewhere, Scotland’s most famous links remain open to visiting golfers. The Old Course at St Andrews operates as a public course, owned by local townspeople through centuries-old legislation. That democratic spirit runs through Scottish golf culture. Whether you’re playing a bucket-list championship course or a hidden gem in a coastal village: you’ll be met with a warm Scottish welcome.
St. Andrews is often called the “Birthplace of Golf.” Photo: Golf Pattaya.
What Makes Scotland Unique for Golf Travelers:
- Over 550 courses in a compact area;
- Public access to world-famous championship courses;
- Rich history dating back to the 15th-century;
- Welcoming culture at courses of all prestige levels;
- Stunning coastal and Highland scenery.
In a Rush? Here are the Top Golf Hotels in Scotland:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Glenapp Castle & Fairmont St. Andrews – Click here for rates & availability
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa – Click here for rates & availability
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kilconquhar Castle Estate – Click here for rates & availability
Building Your Itinerary: Start at St Andrews
Every Scotland golf pilgrimage should begin at St Andrews. The town is compact and walkable, with historic pubs, excellent restaurants, and that unmistakable energy that comes from being the spiritual home of the game.
Scottish links demand skills that differ from traditional courses: including low punch shots, creative bump-and-runs, and the ability to fly the ball into the wind. Spending time on a golf simulator, like Golfbays, or at similar practice facilities before your trip will pay off when you’re standing on the first tee with everyone watching. A few focused practice rounds can help you feel more confident and prepared before you head all the way to Scotland.
St. Andrews is a beautiful town on the east coast of Scotland.
The Old Course Experience
Planning your trip to the Old Course starts with understanding your options for playing the iconic Old Course. This requires planning, but access to the Old Course is far more achievable than most golfers realize.
The daily ballot is your first route. Enter by 2PM for tee times up to 48 hours later. Groups of 2-4 golfers can participate, and success rates vary by season. It’s easier to get tee times during spring and fall, vs. during peak summer months. Another way to go is to use an authorized tour provider: they offer guaranteed tee times, but require booking packages that include accommodations and additional rounds. These packages typically start around £3,350 per person, and should be booked 12-18 months in advance.
| Booking Method | Lead Time | Cost | Success Rate |
| Daily Ballot | 48 hours | Green fee only | 50-80% by season |
| Authorized Provider | 12-18 months | £3,350+ package | Guaranteed |
| Singles Daily Draw | Day before | Green fee only | Variable |
| Winter Package | 6+ months | ~$200 for 3 rounds | High availability |
Beyond the Old Course
St Andrews manages seven courses, and several deserve your attention beyond the famous flagship. The New Course (established in 1895) offers a tremendous challenge without tee time pressure. Kingsbarns Golf Links, just 6 miles away, consistently ranks among the world’s best modern courses. Carnoustie, about 15 miles away, provides what many consider the toughest test in Scottish golf. The course has earned a fearsome reputation as an Open Championship venue.
Because there are so many legendary courses in and around St. Andrews: plan to stay for 3-4 nights. This gives you time to enter the Old Course ballot multiple times, while enjoying guaranteed rounds at other incredible courses. The most renowned golf hotel in St. Andrews is the historic Old Course Hotel ~ which offers direct golf views of the iconic course & incredible dining.
Staying at the Old Course Hotel puts you right in the midst of St. Andrew’s historic golf culture. Photo: Booking.com.
Heading North: The Highland Golf Trail
The Scottish Highlands represent golf in its most dramatic setting. The journey north from St. Andrews to Inverness takes about three hours by train. Note: there are NO direct flights from Edinburgh to Inverness (which I find crazy?!).
Royal Dornoch: The Crown Jewel
No Highland golf itinerary is complete without including Royal Dornoch. Golf has been played on these links since 1616, and Tom Morris extended the layout to 18 holes back in 1886. Tom Watson called Royal Dornoch the most fun he’s ever had on a golf course. The setting is spectacular, with white sandy beaches separating the links from Dornoch Firth, and brilliant gorse blazing yellow in the spring.
Top Highland Courses to Consider:
- Royal Dornoch Championship – World Top 10, Old Tom Morris design;
- Castle Stuart (Cabot Highlands) – Stunning Moray Firth views & coastal views;
- Nairn – Walker Cup and British Amateur host;
- Brora – Cult favorite with sheep on the fairways’
- Golspie – James Braid design with stunning mountain backdrop.
The Castle Stuart Golf Course. Photo: Top 100 Golf Courses.
Hidden Highland Gems
Beyond the marquee courses, several hidden gems reward golfers who are willing to venture slightly off the main circuit. These quieter courses can be especially appealing for solo travelers and smaller groups who seek a more personal experience. Brora Golf Club has developed a cult following, with sheep roaming the fairways along with incredible coastal views. Golspie Golf Club blends links and parkland styles, with stunning views of Ben Bhraggie.
For the Highlands segment of your trip, it’s ideal to stay in Inverness for three nights. There are plenty of hotel options here, & more importantly: it puts you within an hour of Royal Dornoch, and 20-30 minutes from Castle Stuart and Nairn Golf courses.
Sample 10-Day Itinerary for Scotland Golf Trip
Days 1-2 = Edinburgh. Play Golf at: North Berwick or East Lothian area. Where to Stay: Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club (1,000-acre estate with two 18-hole championship golf courses, 20 minutes from Edinburgh). Other Things to Do: Explore the city, enjoy great meals, adjust to time zone, etc.
Days 3-6 = St. Andrews. Play Golf at: Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, New Course, Old Course (by ballot). Where to Stay: Old Course Hotel (hotel located right overlooking the famed Old Course) or Fairmont St. Andrews (set on 500-acres with clifftop restaurant + two golf courses on-site; 2 miles from St. Andrews). Other Things to Do: Check out the British Golf Museum, local pubs, etc.
Days 7-9 = Inverness. Play Golf at: Royal Dornoch, Castle Stuart, Nairn, among others. Where to Stay: Kingsmill Hotel (offers specialized golf packages + easy access to world-class courses, two restaurants & a whiskey bar on-site). Other Things to Do: Take a whiskey distillery tour, enjoy gorgeous walks in the Highlands, drive to famous area lochs, souvenir shop in Inverness on final days.
Day 10 = Back to Edinburgh. Take a train from Inverness back to Edinburgh (there are no direct flights between the two cities), and prepare to catch flight back home.
Practical Planning Tips + FAQ
Practical Planning Tips
Scotland’s prime golf season runs April through October. May and September offer that sweet spot of favorable weather, reasonable prices, and less competition for tee times.
Just make sure to pack plenty of layers!
Scottish weather changes rapidly, and you might experience all four seasons during a single round. For those building Scotland into a larger European travel itinerary, a premium golf experience typically runs $6,000-$10,000 per person for seven to ten days. Mid-range trips come in around $3,500-$6,000. Budget-conscious golfers can experience authentic Scottish golf by focusing on hidden gems, & by staying in 2 to 3-star hotels vs. luxury resorts.
FAQ
How far in advance should I book a Scotland golf trip?
For guaranteed Old Course tee times, book 12-18 months ahead. Other championship courses like Royal Dornoch recommend booking at least a year in advance. Hidden gems often have availability with shorter notice.
Do I need a handicap to play in Scotland?
The Old Course requires a maximum handicap of 36 for both men and women. Many other courses welcome all skill levels without handicap restrictions.
Is it worth trying the Old Course ballot?
Absolutely. Success rates vary from around 50% in peak summer, to over 80% in spring and autumn. Enter every day you’re in St Andrews ~ because a 50% chance is pretty good in my book!
What’s the best airport for a Scotland golf trip?
Edinburgh offers the most international flight options. For Highland-focused trips, flying or taking the train into Inverness can save significant driving time.
How much walking should I expect?
Scottish courses are traditionally walked, and golf carts are NOT common. Expect to walk four to five miles per round, over rolling hills and undulating terrain.
Key Takeaways
- Start planning 12-18 months ahead for guaranteed Old Course tee times, or try the daily ballot during your stay;
- Base yourself in St Andrews for 3-4 nights and Inverness for 3 nights to cover both regions properly;
- Royal Dornoch offers a world Top 10 experience at more reasonable prices than comparable courses;
- May and September provide ideal weather, better prices, and less competition for tee times;
- Pack waterproof layers and expect weather changes.
Discover more from Girl Who Travels the World
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
So glad to hear this, Andrew! I thought Glenapp Castle looked absolutely AMAZING ~ I hope you guys have a great trip!!