Why golf is the perfect family sport

If you’re looking for the perfect family activity, then look no further than golf – a sport that teaches important values and centuries of tradition, set against the backdrop of some of Scotland’s most jaw-dropping scenery.

Since the first ball was struck centuries ago, families have been coming together through the game. 

The ‘Home of Golf’ has even produced perhaps the most illustrious father-and-son duo in the history of the sport: ‘Old’ and ‘Young’ Tom Morris. The pioneering pair spread the game as far and wide as they possibly could and laid the path for the modern-day professional game by taking part in exhibition matches throughout the country.

And as ‘Old’ Tom’s star waned he passed on his knowledge to his son, who went on to follow in his father’s footsteps. That sharing of knowledge, skill and insight from parent to child is a process that is repeated the length and breadth of the country to this day.

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Another element of the game passed down through the generations is its history. Only In Scotland can you can tee it up almost anywhere and feel an almost instantaneous connection to centuries of tradition.

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Out on the course, you and your family can trace the entire history of the game, from the pioneers who first played the sport, to the courses over which golf as we know it came to be. The country also has a thriving championship pedigree, which grows year on year and, in Scotland, you and your family can tee it up on courses that welcome the world’s best players on a regular basis.

An appreciation for the origins of the game is reflected in the wealth of grass-roots opportunities available in Scotland. An array of family-friendly facilities and a national junior programme ensure that anyone who wishes to play the game can do so.  

It is also fitting that the sport remains available to everyone. For that reason, every member of the family, regardless of their age or ability, can enjoy a game of golf. That means mum, dad and the kids can spend some quality time together out on the  course.

You’ll find the majority of Scotland’s clubs are eager to welcome families. Many are actively trying to engage with families by offering reduced rates for family membership.

A round of golf doesn’t just mean the opportunity to spend quality time with your kids. It also helps to instil your children with quality principles. Simply by venturing out on the course, a child will learn respect, integrity and honesty – values that the game of golf has at its core.

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Golf is also a great way to engage not just the kids but the entire family in physical activity. A round, nine holes, or even just a trip to the range will unplug the family from the TV and get them out and about in Scotland’s world-renowned great outdoors.

To make it even easier to get the family into the swing, you will also find a huge selection of practice areas, driving ranges and golf academies throughout the country. 

These facilities are tailor-made to be welcoming, friendly and accommodating places for people of all ages to either brush up on the fundamentals of the game or cut their handicap.

Find out more

For more information on golf in Scotland, log-on to visitscotland.com/golf or click here to read a digital copy of the Official Guide To Golf In Scotland, a comprehensive guide to playing in the cradle of the game.

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Visitors are asked to be aware of the latest government restrictions relating to Covid-19. For more information go to the
Scottish Government website and the

VisitScotland website.