Golf breaks in Aberdeen

Below are some of our Golf Travel Experts’ most celebrated Aberdeen courses, combining historic Scottish links pedigree with outstanding modern championship golf. With a strong concentration of coastal layouts, dramatic dunes and North Sea views, the region is perfectly suited for memorable golf trips.

• Cruden Bay Golf Club

Par: 70 | Yards: 6,599 | Course type: Links | Designed by: Old Tom Morris & Archie Simpson

One of Scotland’s most distinctive and characterful links, Cruden Bay is widely regarded as a must-play on any Aberdeen golf trip, it's is even ranked as Top 100 Courses best courses in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire. Routed through towering dunes with panoramic views across the Bay of Cruden, the course is renowned for its blind shots, elevated tees, undulating fairways and memorable green complexes. Its thrilling variety and old-fashioned links charm make it one of the most enjoyable courses in the country.

• Trump International Golf Links Scotland – Old Course

Par: 72 | Yards: 7,428 | Course type: Links | Designed by: Dr Martin Hawtree

Set within the dramatic dunes of the Menie Estate, Trump International’s Old Course is one of Scotland’s leading modern links layouts. Opened in 2012, it delivers a true championship test with sweeping North Sea views, towering sand dunes, immaculate conditioning and a strong collection of strategic holes. Its scale, setting and challenge make it a standout feature of golf in the Aberdeen region.

• Royal Aberdeen Golf Club – Balgownie

Par: 71 | Yards: 6,916 | Course type: Links | Designed by: Archie Simpson & Robert Simpson, later refined by James Braid

One of the oldest and most revered clubs in the world, the Balgownie Course at Royal Aberdeen’s is a classic Scottish links of immense pedigree. The course is especially known for its outstanding outward nine, which runs through natural dune formations along the North Sea coast. Having hosted major amateur and professional events, including the Walker Cup and Scottish Open, Balgownie remains one of the sternest and most rewarding tests in Scotland.

• Trump International Golf Links Scotland – New Course

Par: 72 | Yards: 7,589 | Course type: Links | Designed by: Dr Martin Hawtree

Opened in 2025, the New Course at Trump International adds another world-class modern links to the Aberdeenshire coastline. Routed across dramatic coastal terrain, natural wetlands and sweeping dunes, it complements the Old Course to create an exceptional 36-hole destination. With its championship scale, strategic shot-making demands and spectacular North Sea backdrop, it is already a major draw for golfers visiting Aberdeen.

• Murcar Links Golf Club

Par: 71 | Yards: 6,516 | Course type: Links | Designed by: Archie Simpson, later refined by James Braid

Located just north of Royal Aberdeen, Murcar Links is a traditional championship links that more than holds its own on this celebrated stretch of coastline. Established in 1909, the course is defined by natural dunes, gorse, heather, elevated tees and far-reaching sea views. Frequently recognised among Scotland’s top courses, Murcar offers a testing but hugely enjoyable links experience and is a superb addition to any Aberdeen itinerary.

Travel tips for a golf trip to Aberdeen:

Aberdeen is a superb choice for a Scottish links golf break, with historic courses, dramatic coastal scenery and easy access to several championship layouts. Here are a few tips to help make the most of your trip:

• Stay in or around Aberdeen: For easy access to Royal Aberdeen, Murcar Links, Trump International and other nearby courses.
• Book tee times early: Especially for the most celebrated links courses during the spring and summer months.
• Travel between late spring and early autumn: To make the most of longer daylight hours and generally stronger playing conditions.
• Hire a car: If you plan to play courses outside the city, particularly Cruden Bay or other coastal layouts further north.
• Pack for changing weather: Including waterproofs, warm layers and a windproof jacket, as conditions can shift quickly on the coast.
• Allow time between rounds: To enjoy Aberdeen’s coastline, restaurants and nearby fishing villages, which add plenty of character to a golf itinerary.