Scottish Golf Bucket List: The Highlands & Islands

Brora

Widely acknowledged as one of James Braid’s greatest accomplishments, Brora continues to be as popular today as it was back in 1891 when it first opened for play. It was a particular favourite of links specialist and five-time Open champion Peter Thomson. The late Australian once remarked: “The golfers share a precious piece of territory with a hundred or so woolly sheep. What could epitomise nature better than such a communion?” High praise indeed. To play Brora is to love it.

Golspie

Situated on the banks of the Moray Firth, almost equidistant between Brora and Dornoch, Golpsie is another enchanting course designed by the great James Braid. Combining the best elements of links, heathland and parkland, it sits in the shadow of Ben Bhraggie and offers a tremendous test of golf which, at just over 6,000 yards, won’t break any backs. Watch out for the consecutive par-3s deep into the back nine – they’re real card-wreckers.

Stromness

Without a shadow of a doubt, Stromness – located on the west mainland of Orkney – is one of the finest island courses to be found anywhere in Scotland. A seaside parkland track, it offers delightful views towards the nearby island of Hoy whilst the ‘turn up and play’ policy the club operates gives you an indication of the relaxed, laid back vibe that awaits visitors.

Reay

The most northerly 18-hole links course on the British mainland is the James Braid-designed Reay near Thurso – and it is utterly magnificent. From its northerly setting, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the Pentland Firth and North Atlantic from every hole on the course. The great course architect Donald Steel once remarked: “In a different location, it would enjoy worldwide acclaim.” High praise, indeed!

Ballindalloch

A nine-holer with 18 tees, this is perhaps a surprise nomination for your Bucket List – but a worthy one all the same. Designed by Donald Steel and Tom MacKenzie – the same duo responsible for the incredible Carnegie Links at Skibo Castle – this is, without doubt, one of the best nine-hole courses in the country, offering wide fairways and tricky, narrow approaches into sizeable greens. There’s an honesty box in operation and it will probably represent the best £10 you’ve ever spent.

Askernish

Originally laid out by Old Tom Morris in 1891 and then seemingly forgotten about when it fell into decline in the 1920s. It came to life in the coming years but, once again, was forgotten about in the early 1980s. But some years ago, it was revived with the help of course architect Martin Ebert and Gordon Irvine, who took it upon themselves to redesign the ‘natural links’ for the modern age – but with a twist. The course follows the natural routing of the dunes, and no chemicals are used on the course. It’s as natural a links as you’ll ever play and the ultimate Bucket List ticker.