Hidden Gem Golf Courses in Scotland

Finding the perfect hidden gem golf course in Scotland can be tricky but there are so many out there just waiting to be discovered. And once you find the perfect one, you’ll enjoy exceptional golf at a fraction of the price and without the crowds to hold you back!

Many of these hidden treasures boast desirable locations, the most magnificent views and challenging holes. Don’t miss out and find the perfect Scottish hidden gem for your dream golf escape.

1. Nairn Golf Course
2. The Balcomie Links at Crail Golf Club
3. Shiskine Golf Club
4. Dunbar Golf Club
5. Kilspindie Golf Club
6. Brora Golf Club
7. The Glen, North Berwick
8. Ladybank Golf Club
9. Pitlochry Golf Club

Nairn Golf Course

The Nairn golf course was home to the Walker Cup 1999 but, despite this burst of fame, still remains one of Scotland’s many undiscovered gems. Designed to the very last detail by Ben Sayers and James Braid, they worked hard to produce a golfing masterpiece fit for the pros.

Nairn is just a short distance from Inverness and each hole boasts stunning views of the Ness waters for golfers to enjoy. So, if you’re making the great journey to the Highlands, then the Nairn golf course is definitely worth a visit! 

The Balcomie Links at Crail Golf Club

The Crail Golfing Society is the seventh oldest golf club in the world, home to the Balcomie links which offers one of the most polished golfing courses in Scotland, set alongside beautiful coastal views. 

This stunning hidden gem was opened in 1895 by Old Tom Morris and was designed to follow the natural lay of the land. Be prepared for a testing game – this Scottish links golf course is surely one to keep you coming back for more.

Shiskine 

Make your way to the Isle of Arran to the small seaside village of Blackwaterfoot for a golfing experience you will never forget. This wonderful 12-hole Shiskine course is unparalleled with its eccentric design and magnificent coastal surroundings. The course makes its way up and over the Drumadoon cliffs then trails back down – a truly beautiful course for any time of the year!

Dunbar Golf Club

Dunbar may be host to the Final Open Qualifying however, surprisingly, many golfers wouldn’t think to go and challenge themselves on this incredible 18-hole course, but why not? Follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest golfers of all-time and make the most of a challenging game, enjoy picturesque sea views and meet fellow gold enthusiasts at the friendly clubhouse at Dunbar Golf Club.

Kilspindie

Instituted in 1867, the Kilspindie golf course has been reputed the 35th oldest in the world. It is also one of Scotland’s most beautiful secret golf courses, hidden among an array of natural wonders.You’ll find this stunning 18-hole course between the Aberlady Bay nature reserve, the quaint village of Aberlady, and the waters of the Firth of Forth. This small course (only 5500 yards!) makes for a tricky one with its winding fairways and hilly terrains.

Brora Golf Club

The Brora Golf course is known for being a specimen of James Braid’s finest work that offers the perfect equilibrium of fun and challenge, with great hilly terrains to test all levels of golfer.

This course may be located in the hinterlands however proves to be worth the effort for such a quality course. Not to mention the excellent sea views that encapsulate the course allowing golfers to enjoy a peaceful putt, even during the most stressful games.

The Glen, North Berwick

The Glen is one of the best Northern Scotland golf courses and is great for all levels of golfers. It offers spectacular headland views looking out towards the Firth of Forth and the Bass Rock, so if you like wildlife this course could be the perfect one for you. You can even take to the green and watch the largest gannet colony in the UK as you swing. 

Make the most of this fantastic 18-hole course all-year round with the perfect inclement weather to match. 

Ladybank Golf Club

The Ladybank is one of the best-kept hidden gems near St Andrews with a reputation as one of the finest inland layouts in Scotland. The course offers two loops of 9 holes and makes for a great challenge for both pros and beginners alike. It’s never easy but always good fun!

Pitlochry Golf Club

Just over an hour’s drive from Scotland’s main cities, this beautiful course is hidden away in the gateway to the Highlands. The Pitlochry will provide an enjoyable game for any beginner but also challenge even the most skilled golfer.

Enjoy tree-lined fairways and a majestic mountainous backdrop while you play on Pitlochry’s lush, manicured greens. Expect a riveting game of golf set amongst pure serenity.

 

To find out more, check out our golf breaks in Scotland and get in touch with one of our experts.