Explore the historic Home of Golf
Scotland is the birthplace of golf, offering a unique blend of history, tradition, and world-renowned courses. From the iconic Old Course at St Andrews to legendary Open venues like Carnoustie, Royal Troon, and Muirfield, Scotland’s fairways have hosted the sport’s greatest moments.
Beyond the famous links, world-class resorts like Gleneagles, Turnberry, and Fairmont St Andrews offer Scottish golf in its purest form. With breathtaking coastal landscapes, charming towns, and a deep-rooted passion for the game, a golf break in Scotland is a must for all golfers.
Why book a golf break to Scotland?
- Tick off bucket-list links courses steeped in history
- From St Andrews to Turnberry – indulge in Open Championship venues
- Explore Scotland’s historic sights, from Edinburgh Castle to St Andrews Cathedral
- Book a great range of 1 night breaks online today
- From resort breaks to golf tours, make your next golf trip special
- Book now to earn loyalty Breakpoint & get money off your next trip
Visit the Home of Golf
Scotland is the undisputed Home of Golf, offering a perfect blend of historic courses, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class hospitality. With legendary championship venues, hidden gem courses, and vibrant cities, Scotland provides an unforgettable golf holiday experience. Plus, with regular flights from across the UK and beyond, it's easily accessible for golfers looking to tick off bucket-list courses.
Travel tips:
- Best time to visit: May to September offers the best conditions, with long daylight hours and mild weather. Spring and autumn are also great for quieter courses and value deals.
- Booking tee times: Popular courses like St Andrews’ Old Course require advance booking or entry via the ballot, so plan ahead and check out our tips for getting a Tee Time at St Andrews here.
- Travel essentials: Many courses offer club rentals, but bringing your own clubs ensures the best experience. Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproofs.
Our most popular golf destinations in Scotland include:
St Andrews – Best for history and iconic golf Universally recognised as the Home of Golf, St Andrews is the perfect base for your Scottish golfing getaway. It is one of the few places in the world where multiple top-tier courses are located right in the town centre, making it a truly special destination.
As the oldest and most famous Golf location in the world, St Andrews offers a vibrant mix of golfing heritage, fantastic dining, and historic charm. Home to some exceptional courses—including the legendary Old Course—it provides an unparalleled experience. Beyond the town, the wider region of Fife holds even more outstanding courses, making it a must-visit for any golfer.
Edinburgh & East Lothian – Best for combining golf with a city break Scotland’s beautiful capital offers access to some of the country’s best courses, including Muirfield, Gullane, and North Berwick. When you're not on the course, explore Edinburgh’s historic streets, world-class attractions, and buzzing nightlife. Just an easy train ride away, and known as Scotland’s ‘Golf Coast’, East Lothian is a gold mine for golfers with 22 courses and some of the best weather in the country!
Highlands & Inverness – Best for dramatic landscapes and bucket-list courses The Highlands offer a truly magical experience, with stunning coastlines and some of the finest courses in the world. It’s a must-visit destination for golfers who appreciate a blend of adventure and tradition. Home to the legendary Royal Dornoch (ranked the No.1 course by Golf Digest) as well as Castle Stuart and many other untamed links courses, the Highlands are a great way to experience the true Scotland.
Ayrshire & Glasgow – Best for Open Championship courses The West Coast is home to legendary Open venues such as Royal Troon, Prestwick, and Turnberry. With a great mix of luxury resorts and classic links courses, this region is ideal for those looking for a true championship experience.
Dundee & Perth – Best for a mix of city life and countryside golf This region offers fantastic golf, from the historic links at Carnoustie to picturesque inland courses. With Dundee’s vibrant city atmosphere and Perth’s stunning countryside, this is an excellent base for a Scottish golf holiday.
Aberdeen – Best for coastal links golf Aberdeen is a top location for a golf tour in Scotland, offering classic courses such as Royal Aberdeen and Trump International.This lively coastal city provides excellent accommodation, dining, and nightlife options for a memorable golf trip.
Scotland is a golfing paradise, steeped in history and tradition. Whether you’re playing legendary links or exploring hidden gems, a golf trip to the Home of Golf is an experience like no other!
What makes a Scotland golf break so special?
Scotland is the birthplace of golf and remains one of the most sought-after golfing destinations in the world. With over 550 courses, including legendary Open Championship venues, historic links, and incredible inland layouts, Scotland offers an unparalleled golf break.
Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of golfing legends at St Andrews or discovering a hidden gem along the rugged coastline, every round in Scotland is a journey through the game’s rich history.
Some of Scotland’s best golf courses:
Old Course, St Andrews The most iconic course in the world & a must-play for any golfer
As the spiritual home of golf since the 15th century, the Old Course is a bucket-list destination. With its famous Swilcan Bridge, undulating fairways, and the historic Road Hole, playing here is a true privilege.
Championship Course, Carnoustie A legendary Open Championship venue & one of the toughest tests in golf
Carnoustie is known for its demanding layout and deep bunkers, offering a stern test for even the best players. With a history dating back to 1842, it is regarded as one of the finest links courses in the world.
Ailsa Course, Trump Turnberry World Top 10 course with breathtaking coastal views
Set along the Ayrshire coastline, the Ailsa Course provides a stunning backdrop with views over the Firth of Clyde. Having hosted multiple Open Championships, it is a true masterpiece of links golf.
Kingsbarns Golf Links Everything you’d expect from a world-class modern links course
Just 15 minutes from St Andrews, Kingsbarns blends natural beauty with championship-quality golf. With panoramic North Sea views and immaculate fairways, it’s one of Scotland’s most picturesque courses.
Castle Stuart Golf Links Highland golf at its finest, with dramatic scenery & immaculate conditions
Castle Stuart is consistently ranked among Scotland’s best courses. Overlooking the Moray Firth, its wide fairways and strategic bunkering make it an enjoyable challenge for all levels.
Royal Aberdeen Golf Club – Balgownie Links A classic out-and-back links experience
Established in 1780, Royal Aberdeen’s Balgownie Links is a true traditional links course. With undulating fairways, fast greens, and stunning North Sea views, it’s one of Scotland’s hidden treasures.
A golf holiday in Scotland is a chance to experience the game in its purest form. Check out our top tips for a golf break to Scotland!
Best-selling golf breaks in Scotland
Stunning golf resorts & hotels
When it comes to stay & play golf packages, golfers are truly spoilt for choice with a range of first-class resorts and hotels. Golf breaks in Scotland are more than just stunning golf courses and beautiful views.
Its world-class resorts offer the perfect blend of championship courses, breathtaking scenery, and five-star hospitality. Whether you're seeking an indulgent golf getaway, a stay-and-play experience, or a scenic countryside retreat, this country caters to every golfer’s dream.
Here are some of the best golf resorts in Scotland:
Best for championship golf & luxury For those looking to play on iconic courses while enjoying five-star treatment.
Gleneagles – Home to three championship courses, including the PGA Centenary Course, which hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup. This world-renowned resort features a Michelin-starred restaurant, a luxury spa, and impeccable service.
Turnberry – One of Scotland’s most prestigious golf resorts, Turnberry is home to the legendary Ailsa Course, consistently ranked among the world’s best. Overlooking the stunning Ayrshire coastline, this five-star resort delivers an unforgettable golf and leisure experience.
Best for city & golf getaways For golfers looking to combine a city break with incredible courses.
Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club – Set in 1,000 acres of parkland just outside Edinburgh, Dalmahoy offers a championship golf course, excellent leisure facilities, and stunning views of Scotland’s capital.
Fairmont St Andrews – Just minutes from the historic Old Course, this luxurious resort features two championship courses on-site and breathtaking views over St Andrews Bay.
Best for scenic countryside retreats For those who want to experience Scotland’s natural beauty while enjoying top-class golf.
Macdonald Cardrona – Nestled in the picturesque Scottish Borders, Macdonald Cardrona is a fantastic value countryside resort, featuring a challenging parkland course and an award-winning restaurant.
Plan your perfect golf trip
If a stay-and-play resort isn’t what you’re looking for, a Scotland golf tour is a great way to experience multiple must-play courses across regions like Ayrshire, East Lothian, and the Highlands. Alternatively, a golf weekend package offers the perfect mix of championship courses and Scottish hospitality in a short getaway.
Golf travel tips for Scotland
Best months for golfing weather:
Best months for value:
Most popular months:
Our experts recommend:
A variety of holiday types & things to do
Scotland is more than just the Home of Golf— there are many things to see and do in Scotland when you're not playing. From the abundance of historic castles, tartan mills and whisky distilleries, it is a magical land filled with myth and legend. Whether you're looking for a luxury retreat, an action-packed golf tour, or a relaxing break, Scotland has something to offer every golfer.
Popular golf holiday types in Scotland
- Stay & play golf holidays – Enjoy world-class golf, five-star spas, and award-winning restaurants, all in one place. Scotland’s best resorts, like Gleneagles and Turnberry, offer everything you need for the ultimate golf getaway.
- Golf tours – Immerse yourself in the full Scottish golf experience. Play Open Championship venues, historic links courses, and hidden gems with a hassle-free, custom-planned tour. Check out our pre-made tour experiences like the Iconic Scottish East Coast Adventure and our Experience Scotland's Ayrshire Golf Coast tour!
- Golf weekends – Even in just a few days, you can tick legendary courses off your bucket list. With world-famous courses just a short drive from Scotland’s major cities, an unforgettable golf weekend is always within reach.
- Golf & spa breaks – The perfect combination of relaxation and sport. Unwind in a luxury spa before your next round on one of Scotland’s iconic courses.
Beyond the fairways
Scotland is a country of adventure, culture, and history, with plenty to explore beyond the golf course.
Edinburgh – The UK’s second-most visited city, Edinburgh is ideal for a city golf break. Explore top attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the lively Royal Mile.
The Highlands – A land of myths and legends, the Highlands offer breathtaking scenery, historic castles, and traditional Scottish cuisine—perfect for those looking to mix adventure with their golf holiday.
Whisky distilleries – No trip to Scotland is complete without tasting its world-renowned whisky. Visit some of the best distilleries, from Speyside to Islay, and discover the craftsmanship behind Scotland’s national drink.
Whether you're chasing championship golf, luxury relaxation, or a true taste of Scotland’s heritage, a golf holiday here promises a lifetime of fantastic memories.
Why book with us?
- Trusted expertsOver 25 years’ experience sending more than 3.5 million golfers away
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