
Have You Played Golf in Scotland?
Golf in Scotland – If there’s one thing that Scotland does better than most, it’s golf! After all, the game was first played here in the 15th century and has been enjoyed by aspiring players ever since. Now a popular global sport, many dream of playing golf in Scotland – where the ‘Home of Golf’ resides.
But where did it all begin? Long before the days of golf tourism, budding players would play with wooden clubs and a ball made from goose feathers. Golfing on Sundays was frowned upon and the sport was even banned by ancient kings as they thought it was too distracting!
Fast-forward to today and Scotland has around 550 courses that span the entire country, from famous links courses with undulating fairways and sea views to inland parkland courses found everywhere from grand country estates to the side of a hill. It comes as no surprise that Scotland has hosted some of the most renowned golf tournaments in the world, including many Open Championships and the Ryder Cup.
One of the most iconic courses in the entire world is The Old Course in St Andrews. This famous links course has been testing golfers since the early 15th century, counting kings and queens amongst its guests. Not only was this site pivotal in developing how the game is played today, but it also ushered in a new 18-hole format and has hosted more Open Championships than any other course. For a dose of golfing history, visitors can also pay a visit to the British Golf Museum in St Andrews.
But Scotland’s golf offering doesn’t stop there! The East Lothian region alone boasts an Open Championship venue – Muirfield – as well as many other challenging courses. Known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, it offers incredible coastline and stunning beaches, creating the perfect environment for golfers of all abilities to enjoy. In the north too, you can find many local clubs if you’re looking to explore the Highlands and Islands.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of playing golf in Scotland, now is your chance. With a range of courses to suit every budget and ability, there’s plenty of opportunities for you to get out onto the fairways!
St Andrews Golf Oriented History Tours – Town and Old Course
Discover the history and rich heritage of golf in St Andrews, Scotland on these exclusive tours.
Go deeper into Scotland
Explore our Scotland planning guides to turn your curiosity into your next adventure. Or join 43,000+ readers who get a daily Scotland story delivered free.
Led by local author and historian Richard Falconer, explore the iconic Old Course, visit the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral – the final resting place for more than 100 noted golfers, and learn about Scotland’s oldest university. Our small group tour sizes are limited to 12 so you can enjoy a more personalized experience. Learn more than you could ever imagine about the beautiful game of golf and St Andrews’ unique history. With a range of departure times, you can easily plan your visit to ensure you make the most of your time in this famous town.
Join us for an unforgettable history tour tailored to golf aficionados and discover St Andrews like never before.
Is St Andrews Worth Visiting?
Sharing is caring!
Between its ancient ruins and world famous golf courses. St Andrews is a great town to explore and you should definitely visit on your trip to Scotland.
Is there anything to do in St Andrews?
- A golf experience
- Visit St. Andrews Cathedral
- University of St Andrews
- St Andrews Castle
- Explore the harbour
- Walk the city
- Visit the beach
- Sit at a Cafe
- Drop in to a pub
Ready to start planning that trip to Scotland? Start here!
When you’re ready to plan your Scottish adventure, our Scotland trip planning guide has all you need to get started.
Ready to experience this yourself?
43,000 Scotland lovers can’t be wrong.
Every week, our free newsletter delivers hidden Highland gems, seasonal travel guides, local stories, and practical tips — straight to your inbox. Join the community that loves Scotland as much as you do.
FREE GUIDE: 25 Hidden Gems of Scotland That Most Tourists Never Find (PDF)
Download our free Scotland Travel Guide (PDF)
Love Scotland?
Get the best of Scotland delivered to your inbox every week — free.
Join 43,000+ readers. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
🏴️ You Might Also Love
🏴️ Join 43,000+ Scotland Lovers
Every week, get Scotland’s hidden castles, whisky secrets, and Highland travel inspiration — the kind you won’t find in any guidebook.
Love more? Join 65,000 Ireland lovers → · Join 30,000 Italy lovers → · Join 7,000 France lovers →
Free forever · Fresh stories, Mon–Fri · Unsubscribe anytime
