Your Custom-Designed Golf Holiday in Scotland
Here’s What to Expect and How to Prepare
Scottish Golf at a Glance
A golf holiday in Scotland is defined by historic links courses, walking the fairways and playing in ever-changing coastal conditions. Our custom-designed golf holidays combine iconic Open Championship venues with lesser-known links, expert local knowledge, seamless logistics and carefully selected accommodation. Each itinerary is built around your ability, interests and travel style, so you experience Scottish golf exactly as it should be played.
Many of our golfing guests choose to combine their time on the links with other classic Scottish country pursuits. It is easy to add a day or two of:
These can be included as a rest day between rounds or as part of a wider sporting journey
These combinations work particularly well for couples or groups with mixed interests
What Is Links Golf ?
Scottish golf is defined by its links courses, shaped over centuries by wind, sand, and coastal terrain. Famous Open Championship venues such as The Old Course at St Andrews, Muirfield, and Carnoustie sit alongside revered links including Royal Dornoch, Troon, Prestwick and Turnberry.
Scotland is also home to exceptional lesser‑known courses, often described as hidden gems, such as Cruden Bay, Brora, Nairn and Crail’s Balcomie Links. These courses deliver an authentic and often more relaxed links experience without compromising on quality.
Links golf is the original expression of the game. Built on sandy coastal land with natural dunes, firm running turf, and very few trees, links courses reward creativity and ground play. Successful golf here relies on imagination, controlled ball flight, and thoughtful shot selection rather than purely aerial play.
Do I Need an Official Handicap
In most cases, an official handicap certificate is not required. However, some Championship links courses do impose maximum handicap limits and may ask visiting golfers to produce proof of handicap.
This helps protect both safety and pace of play.
We therefore recommend bringing a copy of your handicap certificate with you, even if it is not requested in advance.
Walking the Course and Golf Carts
Walking the course is standard practice in Scotland:
- All courses provide pull trolleys
- Most also offer electric trolleys for hire
- Ride‑on carts are less common and typically reserved for players with medical or mobility needs
- Where carts are available, courses may require a medical certificate or doctor’s letter
Weather and Playing Conditions
Scottish weather is famously changeable, particularly on coastal links courses where wind plays a central role in how the game is played:
- Play generally continues in light rain and wind
- Proper preparation is essential: warm layers, quality waterproofs, and suitable footwear are strongly recommended
- Most clubs maintain traditional dress codes: jeans, collarless shirts, and trainers are usually not permitted on the course
Golf Clubs, Equipment, and Shipping
Golf club hire is widely available throughout Scotland. If you would like us to arrange rental clubs, please let us know when booking.
If you are travelling with your own clubs, airlines must be notified in advance. We can also assist with shipping your clubs directly from your home or golf club to Scotland and returning them after your trip. All Scottish courses have professional shops where you can rent equipment and purchase essentials, gifts and souvenirs.
Caddies on Scottish Links Courses
Having a local caddy by your side can be of huge benefit, particularly on links courses and in testing conditions. A local caddy will be invaluable in steering you clear of trouble and helping ensure a reasonable pace of play, while adding a great deal to the overall enjoyment of your round.
Preparing for Your Scottish Golf Holiday
Recommended preparation includes:
- Practicing your short game and low running shots
- Bringing a valid handicap certificate
- Carrying a medical letter if a ride‑on cart is required
- Packing warm layers and waterproof clothing
- Arranging transport or shipping for your golf bag
- Letting us know if you would like us to book caddies
Combining Golf with Other Scottish Sporting Experiences
If you are travelling with non‑golfers, or would simply like to experience more of Scotland while you are here, we regularly design itineraries that blend world‑class golf with driven shooting, guided deer stalking, and exclusive fishing on Scotland’s great rivers and lochs. Activities are carefully scheduled to complement your golf rather than compete with it.
Our Approach to Bespoke Sporting Holidays
Golf in Scotland pairs naturally with the country’s wider sporting heritage. Alongside our custom golf holidays, we also specialise in curated shooting, stalking, and fishing experiences throughout Scotland, delivered to the same exacting standards.
If you would like us to create a multi‑activity sporting holiday, we are always happy to advise and build an itinerary around your interests.
