10 things that make golf in Scotland so special

The history

There’s a reason why playing golf in Scotland is so popular and a pilgrimage that golfers from around the world make in their droves each year: the history. This is where golf was invented hundreds of years ago. It is the cradle of the game, the birthplace of the sport. It has the oldest courses, the deepest heritage and the most incredible stories. Some of the greatest chapters in the game’s history have been written here. There is a great golf tale to be told in almost every town. Quite simply, there is nowhere like it.

The value

One of the biggest myths about golf is that it is an expensive sport to play. Nothing could be further from the truth, as perfectly demonstrated by Scotland. No matter whether you have £20 or £200 to spend on a round, there’s a course for you. Some even offer subsidised ‘return’ rates or discounts for large parties, whilst others may be involved in reciprocal schemes if you happen to be a member of another club. Multi-round passes, meanwhile, are operated by various different regional groups. These are a great and affordable way to play lots of different courses. Whatever your budget, there’s a Scottish golf course to suit it.

The people

Scottish people are renowned the world over for their friendliness and that is never more evident than when we’re showing off our country to visitors. It is thought that the golf industry supports more than 20,000 jobs in Scotland, ranging from PGA professionals, who will be happy to help you fix any issues with your swing, to the greenkeepers, who are up at the crack of dawn to make sure the country’s courses are in top shape for you, to the cheery starters, who will greet you on the first tee of some of the higher-profile courses. And that’s to say nothing of the caddies. If you get the opportunity, we highly recommend you take the services of a ‘looper’. Not only will they help you navigate the course, they’ll keep you entertained throughout.

The hospitality

Whatever kind of accommodation you prefer, Scotland has you covered. From five-star hotels, to self-catering cottages, to B&Bs, to Airbnb, to caravan parks and camping and ‘glamping’ sites, there is something for everyone. Many of the bigger golf courses offer their own on-site accommodation, whilst others enjoy exceptionally good relationships with local providers, meaning you might be able to create a ‘stay and play’ bundle (usually at a discounted rate). The same fabulous variety is in evidence in our restaurants and bars, where you can savour our various gastronomic delights and wash them down with a cold craft beer, refreshing local gin or perhaps even a dram of the ‘water of life’ itself – whisky!