Murrayshall Country Estate: A Family Favourite Revisited

Perthshire – often called “Big Tree Country” – has always held a special place in my heart. With its rolling hills, ancient woodland and gateway towns like Perth, Pitlochry and Dunkeld, it offers some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside. While it may not have the global golfing reputation of St Andrews or Ayrshire, Perthshire quietly delivers outstanding golf – and few places showcase this better than Murrayshall Country Estate.

Just 10 minutes from Perth yet wonderfully secluded, Murrayshall is the perfect countryside escape. Set among rolling hills and woodland, it feels a world away from everyday life.

My attachment to Murrayshall goes back to childhood. Growing up in Ayrshire, family golf trips here felt like proper adventures. Those early memories grew into something even more special when, in 1994, I won the Scottish PGA Under-25s Championship at Murrayshall – a result that truly kick-started my professional career. It’s fair to say this place has been woven through my life in many different ways.

While Murrayshall has always been enjoyable, the transformation over recent years has been impressive. The estate now offers 28 holes of golf, including the Murrayshall Championship Course and the unique 10-hole Lynedoch Course – ideal for juniors, beginners or a quick evening loop.

Accommodation has expanded too, with 62 rooms, suites and luxury pods, the latter introduced in 2025. During my most recent stay just before Christmas, my partner Elaine and I experienced one of the new pods. Stylish, cosy and very well equipped, they offer something a little different while still giving full access to the estate. Some even come with hot tubs – a real treat.

Dining is a real highlight at Murrayshall. The Eòlas Restaurant, holder of an AA Rosette and notable wine list, delivers beautifully presented, high-quality dishes in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. From Sunday lunch to dinner, the food was outstanding.

For something more informal, the Cairns Bar is the social hub for golfers, serving comforting favourites and hosting popular curry nights. The Barossa Bar, with its roaring fire, is perfect for a pre- or post-dinner drink – though I’d recommend avoiding Connect 4 challenges if your partner is highly competitive…

The estate is also wonderfully dog-friendly, with thoughtful touches that make four-legged guests feel as welcome as their owners.

I’ve played Murrayshall countless times and it never disappoints. The Championship Course is fun, fair and occasionally quirky, with excellent par 3s and strong par 5 scoring opportunities. Positioning off the tee is key, and when the greens are in peak summer condition, they are among the best in Scotland.

Even after heavy winter rain, the course held up superbly during our visit – a real credit to the greenkeeping team. It’s an ideal venue for couples, groups, societies and corporate days, ticking every box for a memorable stay-and-play break.

Beyond golf, Murrayshall offers spa treatments, walking and cycling trails across the 365-acre estate, archery, quad biking and easy access to nearby attractions such as Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse. It’s also a stunning wedding venue – it’s easy to see why couples fall in love with it.

With significant investment planned – including a £1 million kitchen upgrade starting in early 2026 – the future of Murrayshall is incredibly exciting. If it isn’t already, it will soon be a must-visit destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.

Every visit carries a sense of nostalgia for me, especially memories of playing here with my brother John, who we sadly lost in 2021. Those moments make Murrayshall more than just a venue – it’s a place full of meaning.

Golfbreaks offers excellent packages throughout the year, including the popular Sunday Driver, and I’d be delighted to help you plan a visit to Perthshire’s best-kept secret.

Below are some of our key travel tips for Murrayshall Country Estate:

Getting There

• By car: 10 minutes from Perth, approx. 1 hr 15 mins from Edinburgh or Glasgow
• Nearest airport: Edinburgh Airport
• Rail: Perth station with onward taxi transfer

Best Time to Visit

• May–September: Best weather, peak course conditions
• Spring & Autumn: Great value, quieter, excellent scenery
• Winter: Ideal for short breaks, spa stays and relaxed golf

Who It’s Best For

• Couples & friends golf breaks
• Golf societies & corporate days
• Non-golfers seeking countryside luxury
• Dog-friendly stays
• Weddings & celebrations

Golf Tips

• Championship Course rewards smart positioning off the tee
• Strong par 3 performance is key to scoring well
• Lynedoch Course is perfect for relaxed or short-format golf

With outstanding golf, excellent accommodation and exciting investment shaping its future, Murrayshall Country Estate offers one of Scotland’s most complete stay-and-play experiences. From relaxed short breaks to memorable group trips, there’s a package to suit every golfer. If you’re considering a visit to Perthshire, Golfbreaks can help you plan the perfect Murrayshall escape.