Best golf courses in Scotland | Golf World Top 100

Dumbarnie is one of the best golf courses in Scotland.

What are the best golf courses in Scotland? The Golf World Top 100 ranking reveals all so you can plan your visit to the Home of Golf.

Jump to: How we did it | The next 100 | 100-76 | 75-51 | 50-26 | 25-11 | 10-1

Welcome to the Golf World Top 100 Courses in Scotland – the country that boasts more courses from our Top 100 Courses in the UK & Ireland ranking than any other.

When I was handed the reins of Golf World’s Top 100s in 2008, I thought there was a better way to do it; a more well-traveled panel, a better system for assimilating views, and a clearer way for us to explain our choices to the people who matter – the readers. Fifteen years later I feel fairly satisfied.

The systems have been in place for a good while (when we started ‘marking’ courses, people frowned – now everyone does it), but for this year’s best golf courses in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales rankings, I’ve been lucky enough to assemble what I think is the ultimate panel.

It is very different from more illustrious Golf World Top 10  panels of the past, which had famous names on them – people who have achieved a lot more in the game than any of us – but whose knowledge was limited to a fairly low percentage of shortlisted courses.

The ability to compare the large majority of the considered courses is essential in my opinion, rather than just, say, 19 of them. It means we get a joined-up, consistent rating of the courses, and thus a more accurate reflection of the best of each country

Well, this panel has four people who have played every course in Scotland, so there is literally no course we haven’t experienced. Then we have panelists such as myself with extensive knowledge of most – by that I mean at least 75 percent – of the courses shortlisted for ‘marking’. Finally, we have some specialists who have specific knowledge of remote links as well as the superstar venues.

The updated ranking sees a handful of ins and outs and some significant if not dramatic moves throughout. However, it is a largely stable list, which is us saying we were not far away with the best courses in Scotland list we revealed two years ago. Where there are large moves, they pertain to a certain type of course that we got a little too giddy about last time. That last list was produced during Covid and I accept I was in more of an echo chamber than usual; so it was a list too aligned to the type of course I and my closest friends like. That means some falls for the sort of short, raw, eccentric links I love. But if that is your bag, there are still plenty of them! 

Whatever you think of the list, one thing is sure; it was compiled by a panel with unparalleled knowledge of courses in Scotland, using a transparent and comprehensive assessment process – exactly the scenario I hoped for in 2008.

As always, we welcome your feedback on all of our rankings and know that everyone will have an opinion on their favorite’s position. We’d love to hear from you via email, on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

And you can get even more from our Best Courses in Scotland, including wonderful essays from people including Brandel Chamblee, Michael Bamberger, Ewen Murray, and Dougie Donnelly, by becoming a Today’s Golfer member. They beautifully encapsulate the essence of Scottish golf and remind us how lucky we are to have these wonderful courses on our doorstep and all (except for one) accessible. 

Chris Bertram, Golf World Top 100 Editor

How do you mark the best golf courses in Scotland?

Each shortlisted course was marked with a total of 100 marks awarded, in these criteria…

Design (40 marks) A key category, split into three sub-sections: Does the course take advantage of its landscape (20); the green complexes (10); the routing (10)?

Setting (15 marks) The aesthetic value of the surrounding views and the course itself. The overall ‘atmosphere’ of the course.

Memorability (15 marks) How easy is it to recall the holes? Are they distinctive, varied and interesting? Are they strategic and heroic?

Playability (10 marks) Is it just too tough, possibly even unfair, for the majority? Or is it easily enjoyed by all?

Consistency (10 marks) Does every hole deliver all of the above, or is it let down by a few poor ones?

Presentation (10 marks) Two aspects: is maintenance at ease with its surroundings? And the conditioning of tees, fairways, bunkers and greens.

In the event of a tie, the Top 100 Editor adjudicates based on the breadth of opinions across the panel. Off-course facilities, customer service and tournament pedigree play no part.

Who is on the Golf World Top 100 Scotland ranking panel?

Members of our experienced panel are invited to take part because of their extensive knowledge of the courses in the country. Including myself, five of this year’s panel have played all 100 courses in the list.

The usual scoring was applied to this ranking and my peerless panel – containing four golfers who have played every course in Scotland – were: Gary Anderson, Stuart Bendoris, Iain Campbell, Chris Hanton, John Freeman, David Jones, Ken Hannah, Billy Low, Kenna Low, Paul MacMichael, Alan McPherson, Douglas Mill, Susie Robertson, John Smith, Neal Stewart and David Walker.

If you think you could add a valuable voice to the panel then get in touch with us, here.

Which courses narrowly missed out on a place in the Scottish Top 100?

Whittling the courses in Scotland down to the best 100 is hard. In order, these are the courses that missed out. The courses from 101st to 125th were all on the shortlist for the Top 100.

200. Cally Palace

199. Anstruther

198. Blairgowrie (Wee)

197. Comrie

196. Balnagask

195. King James VI

194. Ullapool

193. Braemar

192. Wick

191. Whalsay

190. Kinross (The Bruce)

189. Rothesay

188. Kirkcaldy

187. Troon Lochgreen

186. Troon Darley

185. Inverness

184. Kinghorn

183. Newtonmore

182. Kingussie

181. Muir of Old

180. Brodick

179. Balbirnie Park

178. Glencruitten

177. Kinross (Montgomery)

176. Bute

175. Dunfermline

174. Hirsel

173. Dalmahoy (West)

172. Gairloch

171. Carradale

170. Baberton

169. Buckpool 

168. Dunblane

167. Kingsknowe

166. Banchory

165. Ratho Park

164. Hopeman

163. Cardross

162. Forres

161. Ballater

160. Largs

159. Eyemouth

158. Musselburgh Links

157. Thornhill

156. Haddington

155. Monifieth (Ashludie) 

154. Peebles

153. Kirriemuir

152. Dumfries & Galloway

151. Aberdour

150. Cruden Bay (St Olaf, above)

149. Murrayshall (M’shall)

148. Dumfries & County

147. Strathmore (Rannaleroch)

146. Prestwick St Cuthbert

145. Braid Hills (No.1)

144. Inverallochy

143. Cardrona

142. Isle of Skye

141. Portlethen

140. Winterfield 

139. Kemnay

138. Murrayfield

137. Deeside Haughton

136. Alyth

135. Carnoustie (Buddon)

134. Newburgh on Ythan

133. Spey Bay

132. Mar Hall

131. Cullen (above)

130. Bathgate

129. Rowallan Castle

128. Traigh

127. Alloa

126. Corrie

125. Duddingston 

124. Isle of Harris

123. Stonehaven

122. Aboyne

121. Glasgow Killermont

120. Burntisland 

119. Paisley

118. Crieff (Ferntower)

117. Royal Musselburgh

116. Cawder (Championship Course)

The premier course at this club of 36 high-class holes (the shorter Keir is a lovely complement), the Championship layout at Cawder was laid out by the prolific, astute James Braid.

Braid created the original in the 1930s although it has been revised slightly since then, the last of which came in the early 1980s.

It is set down on undulating parkland that is lined by mature trees and incorporates some elevation change. It has some excellent driving holes and a fine portfolio of par 3s – notably the stiff, downhill 18th.

Other highlights include the back-to-back holes at 14 – a drive from an elevated tee followed by a mid-iron over water – and 15, a dog-leg where water is again a threat.

Cawder’s pedigree golf club sits on the northern outskirts of Glasgow in a pleasingly tranquil spot.
Scotland’s Top 100 is dominated by links but this is one of the finest inland courses in the land.

Visit https://cawdergolfclub.com/

115. Mortonhall

114. Haggs Castle 

113. Crail (Craighead)

112. Cathkin Braes 

111. Reay 

110. Arbroath

109. Ranfurly Castle

108. Kings (Inverness)

107. Covesea

106. Wigtownshire County

105. Dalmahoy (East, above)

104. Meldrum House 

103. Auchterarder

102. Craigielaw

101. Royal Dornoch (Struie, above)

Golf World Top 100: The best golf courses in Scotland – 100-76

100. East Renfrewshire

Glasgow, Lanarkshire – RE-ENTRY

Design 25 Setting 10 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 68

James Braid at his best, where little has changed since he laid out the course in 1922. This is an outstanding moorland with some truly memorable holes and you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.

99. Musselburgh (Monktonhall)

Musselburgh, Lothian – NEW ENTRY

Design 25 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 68

Monktonhall has long been a contender and now comes into widespread approval among the panel. In super condition and a fabulous all-round test, but not in an onerous way.

98. Royal Burgess

Edinburgh, Lothian – UP TWO

Design 24 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 68

The oldest golf society in the world, dating back to 1735, plays on a parkland course that is always beautifully presented.

“Rivals neighboring Bruntsfield as Edinburgh’s best course,” says one panelist, and if you’re looking for a game while staying in Edinburgh, the 20-minute journey to Burgess will be rewarding enough.

97. Carnoustie (Burnside)

Carnoustie, Angus – NEW ENTRY

Design 24 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 68

Unanimous approval from the panel at this entry. The Burnside is in wonderful condition and although relatively short, its narrow fairways and pot bunkers give it teeth.

96. Elgin

Elgin, Highlands – NEW ENTRY

Design 25 Setting 11 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 68

Another widely touted for its debut by panelists who have played it frequently, this 6,500-yard heathland, situated in
the heart of Moray and Speyside, is in fantastic condition and has plenty of interest throughout. 

95. Forfar

Forfar, Angus – NEW ENTRY

Design 26 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 68

A challenging course in a heathland setting with some adventurous fairways and lots of entertaining holes. Forfar – laid out by Old Tom Morris in 1871 – has hosted a number of notable tournaments and was touted by several panelists for a debut in this list.

94. The Roxburghe

Kelso, Borders – UP THREE

Design 25 Setting 11 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 68

A modern Dave Thomas parkland with well-designed greens and plenty of large bunkers to avoid. This is a good driving course that is imaginatively routed through its lovely setting, providing rolling fairways which are maturing well. The ‘Viaduct hole’ is the Insta-worthy moment. Easily the best course in the Scottish Borders.

93. Pitlochry

Pitlochry, Perthshire – UP FIVE

Design 29.4 Setting 12.7 Memorability 11.3 Playability 7.7 Consistency 7.0 Presentation 7.3 Total 75.4

“Incredible views after a formidable initial ascent,” says one panelist of this Perthshire beauty. Designed by Willie Fernie, Pitlochry sits at the gateway to the Highlands and offers breathtaking views of the Tummel Valley. It’s sub-6000 yards but so many holes live long in your memory. Great finish with the green guarded by a wide burn.

92. Portpatrick (Dunksey)

Portpatrick, Galloway – UP FOUR

Design 24 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 6 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 69

A moorland-clifftop with breathtaking views out to sea taking in Kintyre, Cumbria and Ireland on a clear day. It has only one par 4 over 400 yards and two under 300 yards, along with compact greens. The regular breeze keeps things interesting.

91. The Carrick

Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire – DOWN 2

Design 25 Setting 13 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 6 Total 69

An exquisite location offering superb views across Scotland’s National Park and Loch Lomond from the elevated holes in particular. The famous downhill 14th is followed by a fabulous three-shotter along the loch. Loses some marks for consistency, but it is a memorable experience.

90. Kilmacolm

Kilmacolm, Renfrewshire – NEW ENTRY

Design 27 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 69

A James Braid undulating moorland with really interesting holes among pines, gorse, and heather. A welcome new entry for a course where shot-making rather than length is the key.

89. Gullane (No.3)

Gullane, East Lothian – DOWN 1

Design 25 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 69

“Pure greens, sensational views, short but not easy,” reckons one panelist. “I’m not sure it isn’t better than No.2 – certainly more fun and enjoyable,” says another.

Where else should you play putter on 176-yard par 3? Strategic, scenic, and very special, No.3 proves the theory that short courses are usually more fun in spades. Interesting and entertaining.

88. Powfoot

Powfoot, Dumfries & Galloway – UP 4

Design 27 Setting 10 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 69

Powfoot is less well known than Southerness, its neighbor along the Solway Firth, but worth a detour especially if traveling from England to Ayrshire. The parkland phase is undoubtedly lower in quality, but the links holes – including a terrific start – ensure a nice rise. Unassuming, but enjoyable.

87. Bruntsfield Links

Edinburgh, Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 26 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 69

Edinburgh’s finest course in our view. The world’s fourth oldest club, dating back to 1761, but a forward-thinking one. Tom Mackenzie’s extensive recent work helped return the parkland to that molded by Willie Park, Alister Mackenzie, and James Braid, with a specific and fine focus on the bunkers.

86. Newmachar (Hawkshill)

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire – DOWN 1

Design 27 Setting 10 Memorability 10 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 69

The Hawkshill is this Aberdeen club’s championship course (there is also the Swailend), and it’s a solid modern parkland. Opened in 1990, it was designed by Dave Thomas and is one of his typically testing layouts. This one is more than 6,700 yards and you can’t thrash away mindlessly, as mature trees, water, deep bunkers, and undulating greens await.

85. Kilmarnock Barassie

Troon, Ayrshire – UP 1

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 69

The ‘Barassie Links’ 18 is a mix of the old and new with additional holes added in 1997 to increase length. The old 18 (the gentle, scenic Hillhouse is the ‘discarded’ nine) wasn’t long enough for a championship-hosting course, so the new 18 incorporates most of the tougher original holes. Some feel a little underwhelmed by the new Barassie, others view it as a classic links that has everything. Superb par 3s, led by the 4th.

84. Longniddry

Longniddry, East Lothian – DOWN 1

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 70

Longniddry is an intriguing hybrid of links and parkland/woodland, despite sitting so close to the Firth of Forth as part of the wonderful collection of East Lothian courses.

Many will revere the links holes but the woodland section to begin with is nothing except a pleasure and this Scotland Top 100 fixture – which is also in the GB&I Next 100 – is always well presented with terrific greens.

Longniddry is not especially long on the scorecard but makes you work for a good score, with no par 5s to offer soft birdie opportunities, but it yet strikes a lovely balance between challenge and enjoyment.

Recent work to remove trees, ironically inadvertently by winter storms, have opened up the course more and returned the layout closer to its original Harry Colt design.

The host of the 2022 & 2023 Scottish Girls Open, the closing six holes are a great challenge if hanging on to a score. It’s a Colt, so naturally the short holes are superb.

Visit https://www.longniddrygolfclub.co.uk/

83. Grantown-on-Spey

Grantown, Highlands – UP 1

Design 25 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 70

This heather-lined course 30 minutes south of Inverness is very easy on the eye with a backdrop of mountain. It was laid out in Cairngorms National Park by Willie Park (initially as nine holes) with later input from James Braid and it hugely benefits from that setting. Not long, but clever, cute and guaranteed to charm. There is a premium on shot-making rather than power.

82. The Glen

North Berwick, East Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 23 Setting 14 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

The marks for Setting and Memorability rather say it all about this clifftop course. Has the X Factor in spades. Glorious clifftop views and a course that will challenge you without making you feel too beaten up. The superb short 9th rivals the famous 13th. Spellbinding views from its elevated fairways, The Glen offers a very different experience from its East Lothian neighbours.

81. Glenbervie

Falkirk, Stirlingshire – DOWN 1

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

One of Scotland’s finest inland courses, Glenbervie opened in 1932 after being set down in tranquil Stirlingshire countryside by James Braid.

There are views across to the Ochil Hills and a delightful selection of holes, but Glenbervie is a proper examination of your game – as befits a course that has long been used as a championship venue.

It was here that Jose-Maria Olazabal won one of his first prestigious events when he claimed the British Boys. The Scottish Professional Championship and the Scottish Youths Amateur have also been held here and it was a qualifying venue for the Senior Open last year.

John Panton, a Ryder Cup player on three occasions, was the professional at Glenbervie for almost 40 years,
Glenbervie is a high-caliber parkland characterized by lush conditioning, first-rate bunkering and good variety among the holes.

Highlights are sprinkled throughout but few will leave anything other than thrilled by the quality par 3s at the 4th and 13th as well as the two-shot 9th and 14th.

A club and course of real pedigree.

Visit https://www.glenberviegolfclub.com/

80. Prestwick St Nicholas

Prestwick, Ayrshire – UP 1

Design 26 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

Traditional links in a historic location with a number of memorable and unusual holes, including a fine closing stretch. At times a tight course offering little in the way of comfort once offline. Fast greens and is always in top-class order. The fact it is No.81 illustrates the depth of Scotland.

79. Nairn Dunbar

Nairn, Highlands – NO CHANGE

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 70

“The front nine especially is massively enjoyable,” says one panelist. “Some interesting holes in the middle of the round, but some less exciting ones early and late,” says another. The best of this hybrid course is really good, but Nairn Dunbar lacks the consistency to be higher. There has been notable recent work to open up the course and it’s a delightful experience.

78. Edzell

Edzell, Angus – DOWN 2

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 10 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 70

Now established in the Top 100, the greens at this Angus gem are of the highest quality and there is enough danger lurking to give it the right amount of challenge.

Laid out in 1895 by Bob Simpson, James Braid made changes in 1934 and it was then renovated by Martin Ebert in 2015. By the time Ebert arrived, it had morphed from its original heathland feel to parkland-woodland owing to the growth of trees.

77. Fairmont (Kittocks)

St Andrews, Fife – DOWN 4

Design 26 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

Laid out on similar land to its sister at No.71 and their proximity in our list illustrates that this is a serious 36-hole venue. The Kittocks incorporates stone walls and has as many breathtaking views of the bay across to the Auld Grey Toun – with arguably more variety to the holes.

76. Durness

Durness, Highlands – DOWN 11

Design 22 Setting 14 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

After a modest opening couple of holes, you are rewarded with some of the best views in Scotland. Fun and scenic nine-holer which many adore, but was deemed to have entered too high in 2021. That was our mistake – Durness has done nothing wrong. It challenges your game and captures your imagination – and it’s worthy of the very long drive north to play it.

Golf World Top 100: The best golf courses in Scotland – 75-51

75. Irvine

Irvine, Ayrshire – NO CHANGE

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 70

‘Bogside’ is just a few miles from Troon in Ayrshire’s golf belt and may sometimes suffer from sitting alongside the superstar courses. Undervalued as a result, it offers a serious test having hosted several Open qualifiers, but also plenty of entertainment and memorable holes.

A nice start and a hard finish. And if it was a little more consistent it would be much higher. Gorse and heather line the fairways and it has some magnificent green complexes. 

74. St Andrews (Eden)

St Andrews, Fife – UP 3

Design 25 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 70

It is a moot point how much of Harry Colt’s great Eden course really remains following work by Donald Steel and this mini Old Course is undergoing some more revisions, but it still finds sufficient favor to get a rise. The quintessential simple Scottish links is playable, really well-maintained, and impossible not to enjoy.

73. Stranraer

Stranraer, Galloway – UP 1

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 70

This parkland is in a remote spot but with a lovely location beside Loch Ryan and James Braid’s highly-regarded final creation. Well routed with several memorable holes and a meandering burn which adds an additional interest. It has 14 par 4s and one par 5 and the 5th is a highlight, played from an elevated tee.

72. Royal Troon (Portland)

Troon, Ayrshire – UP 6

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 70

Entered our Scotland list in 2016 and enjoys another decent rise. Two loops of nine, with no par 5s on the front half, but four coming back. The Portland has some modest holes at the start, end and middle, but in between there is some terrific stuff. Willie Fernie created some especially fine par 3s and several superb green complexes. A very fair test and the work on it has helped make it much more than the ‘No.2’ here.

71. The Duke’s

St Andrews, Fife – DOWN 1

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 70

Your alternative to world-class links in St Andrews (or just outside). Heathy in character, The Duke’s enjoys a picturesque woodland setting and is a contrast to the nearby links superstars. This is one of Scotland’s top inland courses, with imaginative bunkering framing the greens to striking visual effect. On the outskirts of the town, it is a delightful place to play when it’s firm in the summer and it has plenty of elevation change at times to add interest.

70. Blairgowrie (Lansdowne)

Blairgowrie, Perthshire – DOWN 2

Design 26 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 70

An early Peter Alliss/Dave Thomas design, Lansdowne is a very, very solid complement to its prettier little sister, the Rosemount. Tree-lined, tighter and considerably tougher, it is a little claustrophobic at times, but they are similar in quality and should always be fairly close in a Scotland ranking.

69. Fairmont (Torrance)

St Andrews, Fife – UP 2

Design 25 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 71

A nice rise for the premier course of the two at one of the best golf resorts in Britain and Ireland. The courses at Fairmont are overshadowed by the hotel in many peoples’ eyes, which is epic, but the courses are quality in their own right. The Torrance is just about the pick, enjoying fabulous views over the bay and strong enough to challenge tour pros.

68. Archerfield (Dirleton)

Gullane, East Lothian – DOWN 1

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 71

Arguably tougher than the Fidra, with the tighter back nine – including the outstanding 16th – a supreme test of accuracy. The gorse clearance that’s starting will propel it higher next time. Lacks a bit of charm for some, but a solid modern links.

67. Tain

Tain, Highlands – UP 2

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 71

“A natural course which deserves greater profile,” says one panelist. This nudge up for unfussily good Tain was popular across the panel.

Bumpy fairways and interesting greens complexes are just some of the awaiting characteristics of this rugged Highland course, which is tucked away at the back of the town. The holes near the Firth are especially good and only some more modest back-and-forth holes stop it from being top 50.

66. Downfield

Dundee, Angus – UP 6

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 71

On the northern edge of Dundee, just a short drive from the links riches of Carnoustie, Panmure et al is this delightful parkland course. It is so pretty and playable with a collection of heroic par 5s. Can get a little wet in winter, but for most of the year it’s in fabulous nick. A pleasing rise for this mini Wentworth.

65. Peterhead

Peterhead, Aberdeenshire – DOWN 2

Design 26 Setting 13 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 5 Presentation 7 Total 71

“Six of one and a dozen of the other,” says one panelist. “The first six are straightforward parkland holes, the next 12 some of the most enjoyable links holes around.” From the 7th tee onwards, you play through rolling dune slacks to plateau greens – stunning. The 9th hole is outstanding. Peterhead lacks a little consistency, otherwise it would be in the top 60 easily. 

64. West Kilbride

Seamill, Ayrshire – DOWN 3

Design 26 Setting 13 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 5 Presentation 7 Total 71

Ayrshire’s most northerly links is 30 minutes north of Troon and set hard against the beach with great views towards Arran. A beautiful course, it has a nice stretch of shortish holes (8th-11th) giving you a bit of a breather after which the last six holes, all strong par 4s, four of which follow the shoreline, will test you.

You need to score on the first nine and preserve on the second nine to make your score here. Always has greens in great condition that are a joy to putt on.

Read our full review of West Kilbride.

63. Monifieth (Medal)

Monifieth, Angus – UP 1

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 71

Starts with holes tight to the railway line, with out-of-bounds a constant companion to the right. The Medal has lovely undulating fairways from the start but arguably steps up a gear on the back nine, with shorter but better holes on more interesting land. Used as a final qualifying venue for The Open – and deservedly so. Challenging, but fun to play.

62. Duff House Royal

Banff, Aberdeenshire

Design 27 Setting 11 Memorability 10 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 71

Alister MacKenzie’s northern routing features plenty of his trademarks, not least a fine routing with tremendous green complexes and bunkers camouflaged from view when looking back down the hole. An interesting test through the trees by the mouth of the River Deveron.

61. Gleneagles (PGA Centenary)

Auchterarder, Perthshire – DOWN 5

Design 30.0 Setting 12.6 Memorability 11.0 Playability 7.2 Consistency 7.8 Presentation 8.4 Total 77

The only course that Jack Nicklaus has completed so far in Scotland, although the 15-time Major champion is working on another. That it’s a past Solheim and Ryder Cup venue gives it bucket list allure, but doesn’t factor in our assessment. Sits in classic Gleneagles scenery. Some feel it lacks the charm of its siblings, but few can match them – and it possibly suffers due to comparison. Nicklaus made good use of land left over to create a strong, immaculate modern course that was further enhanced before it hosted the biennial clashes in 2014 and 2019, respectively.

60. Leven

Leven, Fife – DOWN 8

Design 28 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 5 Total 72

Former Open qualifier with an infamous 18th over water, this fall is solely down to some presentation issues of late. It is so close in every way to Lundin, you can end up on the 5th tee of the wrong course so easily. Leven might be a touch more consistent than its neighbor with a couple of real highlights. Huge affection for this pleasing links and club.

59. Turnberry (King Robert)

Turnberry, Ayrshire – NO CHANGE

Design 25 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 8 Total 72

For a second course, King Robert the Bruce is beautifully presented. Much improved following further work by Martin Ebert with four new holes (8th-11th) greatly strengthening the course and worthy of being on the Ailsa. The first group of holes defined by gorse left and right are challenging, but then the stretch on the hill is awe-inspiring.

58. Spey Valley

Aviemore, Highlands – NO CHANGE

Design 26 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 72

To say Spey Valley is all about the setting is to do a disservice to arguably our favorite Dave Thomas design. But its Aviemore location is a key part of its appeal, and few beat it in this list, inland or seaside. We also like the green complexes and variety of holes. A gorgeous, memorable experience with something for everyone.

57. St Andrews (Jubilee)

St Andrews, Fife – UP 9

Design 27 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 72

One of the biggest rises in the list is recognition of a course that has, perhaps, suffered in comparison with its sisters previously and would, if not in St Andrews, get more attention. An undoubted test and closest to the sea. Donald Steel’s upgrade isn’t loved by all, but this is a very, very fine links.

56. Dunaverty

Southend, Argyll – DOWN 8

Design 27 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 6 Total 72

Remote and beguiling with outstanding coastal views. Barely 5,000 yards, but gorse, blind holes, water hazards, and elevation changes give it teeth. It pains us to drop it down as it has done nothing wrong, but the panel verdict was that it was a little too punchy in the top 50 last time.

Read our full review of Dunaverty.

55. Scotscraig

Tayport, Fife – UP 5

Design 29 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 6 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 72

Another pleasing rise for the world’s 13th oldest club’s course, which sits close to the mouth of the River Tay and isn’t quite a classic links, with more of a Ganton-esque links-heathland feel. It is stringent, as you’d expect of a Final Open qualifier, with heather, gorse and Scots pines backed up by pot bunkers. Tough, but seriously classy.

Read our full review of Scotscraig.

54. Moray (New)

Lossiemouth, Highlands – UP 3

Design 29 Setting 11 Memorability 7 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 72

A notable rise for the second course at Moray, which gets it towards the top 50 and even closer to the Old than in previous rankings. The New enjoys a solid routing over gently undulating ground and it scores consistently. Holes around the middle are a little cramped as the gorse makes it less ‘playable’ – but a very fine links to have as a No.2

53. Golspie

Golspie, Highlands – UP 2

Design 28 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 73

“Just a magical experience that leaves you wanting more,” says one panelist. They’re not wrong! Three styles of golf in one – first a true links to open, then a heathland middle, and finally a parkland climax. Despite the last section undoubtedly being the weakest, the par 3s at 16 and 17 are both excellent. A terrific combination that moves seamlessly between phases. A Highland charmer.

52. Crail (Balcomie)

Crail, Fife – UP 2

Design 26 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 8 Total 73

Crail has some ardent fans who would have it well inside the top 50, and for those who enjoy scenery and clifftop-seaside drama, this is for you. This venerable old course is a must-play.

The 6,500-yard white tees are playable, but don’t hesitate to go to the 6,200-yard yellows for a really fun round. Renowned for its excellent greens and among the most fun golf courses in Britain.

Read our full review of Crail (Balcomie).

51. Askernish

South Uist, Hebrides – DOWN 2

Design 28 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 5 Total 73

“Remote, but worth every mile of the journey,” says one panelist. “A great back story and never to be forgotten.” The epitome of raw, rugged, remote golf played over mighty dunes, not between them.

A fun experience, even if it’s not for everyone – splits the panel about just how good it is. An essential pilgrimage for aficionados.

Read our full review of Askernish.

Golf World Top 100: The best golf courses in Scotland – 50-26

50. Ladybank

Annsmuir, Fife – UP 3

Design 28 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 73

Originally a six-hole course with input from Old Tom Morris, it is easy to think of Ladybank as a cuddly inland experience among pines and away from Fife’s seaside breezes. But it has hosted Open final qualifying plus Seve and Jack. Gorgeous turf and a ‘glad to be alive’ vibe here.

49. Lundin

Lundin, Fife – UP 2

Design 29 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 5 Presentation 7 Total 73

Another rise for Lundin, with the panel enjoying its memorable holes and terrific location. The holes on elevated land might not be the highlights in a golf sense, but they offer wonderful views. Lower down, there are some classic sporty two-shotters and turf you wish you could carry around.

48. Lanark

Lanark, Lanarkshire – UP 2

Design 29 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 74

No-one loves Lanark like we do. We have it above several courses of high repute, as we adore the entertaining holes on funky land that mark this moorland out as one of Scotland’s finest inland. An unassuming Gleneagles Queen’s-style experience that we are sure you won’t regret if you head here.

Read our full review of Lanark.

47. Fortrose & Rosemarkie

Inverness, Highlands – NO CHANGE

Design 26 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 74

For those who do not feel 7,000 yards is essential. Superb fun and setting. It enjoys a unique and memorable location on a spit of land and while the back nine is arguably repetitive, playing along the central spine of the peninsular, the front nine is glorious. Hole after hole along the beach; a stunning setting for golf – proudly jutting into the Moray Firth.

46. Kilspindie

Aberlady, East Lothian – DOWN 3

Design 25 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 74

“A joyous place to play golf – it’s short, but will still ask some good questions,” says one panelist in an accurate summary. Kilspindie suffers a small fall, but this links is diminutive and immensely fun with breathtaking coastal views. The short 8th over Forth Estuary a signature classic. Holiday golf? Perhaps. But it will not disappoint. Starts with a par 3, which is apt for a course where you don’t really need to bother carrying a driver. 

45. Archerfield (Fidra)

Gullane, East Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 29 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 74

Improvements to the par-3 4th hole give a wonderful view of Fidra island now, which brings a new dimension to the course, as does the elevated 6th tee. A Sunningdale feel as towering Scots pine attractively hug 11 sweeping fairways before opening into a typical links breeze thereafter. Expect firm running fairways.

44. Blairgowrie (Rosemount)

Blairgowrie, Perthshire – UP 2

Design 27 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 74

It has slipped down in recent years, partly due to the loss of the old 9th and 10th holes to the Landsdowne and rather mundane replacements, but this is a nice rise for this slice of pretty Perthshire perfection. Alister MacKenzie created lots of lovely holes through birch and heather and the par-4 16th is a classic.

By no means short at 6,600 yards off the white tees, but it is beautifully conditioned, the greens are flat and the playing corridors sufficiently wide to make the Rosemount an utterly pleasurable experience. Few inland courses enchant the way it does.

43. Montrose (1562)

Montrose, Angus – UP 1

Design 29 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 74

The pedigree of Montrose makes a trip here an essential part of any connoisseur’s CV, but the 1562 offers more than just history. The front nine is a delight, whether it is the sea-side holes or the table-top greens. A classic out-and-back links that is steeped in history. Catch it on a breezy day and have some real fun. It’s immensely sad that coastal erosion continues to threaten this iconic course. Among the best courses you can play for £60 and under.

Read our full review of Montrose 1562.

42. Gullane (No.2)

Gullane, East Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 30 Setting 13 Memorability 11 Playability 6 Consistency 6 Presentation 9 Total 75

Spellbinding views atop Gullane Hill and perennially perfect greens. Members say it plays the hardest of the trio off the white tees. The first few are relatively weak, but the 4th is the best par 4 at Gullane, and the downhill 11th, with Aberlady Bay as the backdrop, the best par 3. No.2 might well be unlucky to be judged against its big sister, but do not leave it off your East Lothian list.

41. Gailes Links

Irvine, Ayrshire – DOWN 1

Design 30 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 75

Sat next door to Western Gailes but an entirely different type of course. A driver’s course, despite welcome tree and gorse removal in recent times. There is still some of both, and heather, and a hard par 4 to finish if you still have a score on the go. Often overlooked in Ayrshire terms, but it’s been a GB&I Top 100 course for good reason. A classy and exacting links.

40. Luffness

Gullane, East Lothian – UP 1

Design 30 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 75

Sharing the same crisp linksland as Gullane (though lower lying, so not quite as scenic), Luffness often flies under the radar, which is just the way their members like it. “It’s an old-school club and an old-school links,” says one panelist. While it doesn’t have the views of Gullane No.1, the turf plays fast and the bunkering is particularly strong. A classy, honest test.

39. Moray (Old)

Lossiemouth, Highlands – NO CHANGE

Design 31 Setting 11 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 75

Classic, old-school links golf in the town of Lossiemouth. Playing here feels like you could be on the same course as 100 years ago – apart from the fighter planes landing at the nearby RAF base. Defined by gorse but still playable, this is a notable slot for the Old, above several ‘big names’.

38. Fraserburgh (Corbie Hill)

Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire – NO CHANGE

Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 75

The 1st and last are flat, modest affairs and are markedly out of sync with the rest of the raucous fun among the sand dunes and over the humps and hollows. The move into the top 40 ahead of some big names is just reward for a terrific links with a seriously good run on the back nine. So much fun.

Read our full review of Fraserburgh (Corbie Hill).

37. Boat of Garten

Aviemore, Highlands – DOWN 3

Design 29 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 6 Total  76

Its location in Aviemore is a very good start to explaining why ‘The Boat’ is in front of some illustrious names. But a mountain setting alone couldn’t earn it that slot, and Boat of Garten is also home to a selection of fun holes and terrific green complexes. Varied and never, ever dull. It suffers a small fall here for its less consistent presentation of late.

36. Murcar

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire – DOWN 1

Design 29 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 76

Almost the continuation of Royal Aberdeen, Murcar is often slightly underrated. It is very consistent, with even the loop of holes up and around the hill retaining a links feel. Not quite the towering dunes of Trump Aberdeen down the road, but classic rolling links terrain and none the worse for that.

35. Shiskine

Arran, Ayrshire – DOWN 2

Design 28 Setting 14 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 76

“There are many 18-holers on this list that could immediately be improved by taking a leaf from Shiskine’s book. Why have half a dozen average holes detracting from a great 12?” says one panelist. One of the most spectacular, idiosyncratic, and fun courses in Scotland. Blind shots, unforgettable holes, and a idyllic setting.

No.1 in our ranking of the best cheap golf courses.

34. Dunbar

Dunbar, East Lothian – UP 2

Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 8 Total 76

The first loop of three is a modest start, but walking through the wall to the 4th tee is exhilarating. Dunbar then has more holes on the water’s edge than most in this list and some of the holes away from the coast are arguably even more interesting. Famous neighbors, but comfortably holds its own.

33. Panmure

Carnoustie, Angus – UP 4

Design 32 Setting 11 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 8 Total 76

We seem to enjoy Panmure more than most, but we are really confident in this notable rise which sees it reach the brink of our Top 100 Great Britain and Ireland entries.

For us, it is a seriously classy links with several stand-out holes and some of the best turf around. It starts and finishes on sedate land, but in between there are holes cunningly draped over undulating terrain. Famously where Hogan warmed up in 1953.

32. Southerness

Southerness, Dumfries & Galloway – DOWN 1

Design 32 Setting 11 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 76

“Queen of the South. An awesome course that is well worth the journey. Play well here and you can play well anywhere,” says one panelist. A long-time GB&I Top 100 course, Southerness was designed by Philip Mackenzie Ross and hits some real highs coming home.

It is relatively short, but a terrific examination. A par 69 and SSS 73 with tough par 4s – eight of the 11 weigh in at over 400 yards. Quite a few dog-legs and a lot of the greens are fronted by swales and mounds.

31. St Andrews (Castle)

St Andrews, Fife – DOWN 1

Design 28 Setting 14 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 76

A course that divides opinion, and feels like it always will be. The views over the Auld Grey Toon are glorious, and the course is undoubtedly fun and playable.

Greens are still a little extreme for some, but we tend to now think their softened nature is an interesting contrast to the more ‘classic’ St Andrews links – which is true of the clifftop course as a whole.

Our advice is to go with an open mind and there is every chance you will savour it.

30. Dundonald

Irvine, Ayrshire – UP 2

Design 32 Setting 7 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 76

A nice little rise for this modern links, which is not overly narrow in the fairway but can stretch out to serious distance. Kyle Phillips returned to cast his experienced eye over the modern links, although we didn’t feel his original needed much modification

One of Europe’s finest courses of the past 25 years, Dundonald doesn’t wow with views but, as a clever and considered links test, it takes some beating.

Testing finish with a long par 3 followed by two strong 4s, then a mammoth 5 with a long, narrow green and a burn as protection.

29. The Renaissance Club

Gullane, East Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 9 Total 76

Has improved with age and flow is much better. The land, cut through pine forest, is more Archerfield than Muirfield at times, even if there has been a program to make it more linksy and remove trees, in addition to the three new holes.

The holes before and after the turn are terrific, the sloping greens are fiendish and it takes its place among Scotland’s modern greats.

28. St Andrews (New)

St Andrews, Fife – NO CHANGE

Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 76

A course that splits the panel. Some suggest it is as good as the Old and could be in the top 25, while others feel the holes are pleasant but that the gorse reduces playability. This is indubitably a cerebral, interesting, and nuanced links that is rightly established in the top 30, though.

27. Brora

Brora, Highlands – DOWN 1

Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 77

Rugged golf over rumpled fairways. There’s no substitution for great golf land and Brora has it in spades.

It came back from the financial brink – and it is testament to its charm and character that so many worldwide pitched in to save this Braid masterpiece.

Simple but brilliant and, in the par-4 17th, it is home to one of the best golf holes in Scotland.

26. Elie

Earlsferry, Fife – UP 1

Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 77

We have been mooting Elie as underrated for some time and it deserves to retain its spot in the top 30. James Braid’s home links starts with a blind tee shot that signals the fun that follows. A breathtaking seaside stretch means it has something for everyone and it boasts the best greens in Scotland.

Golf World Top 100: The best golf courses in Scotland – 25-11

25. Dumbarnie

Upper Largo, Fife – DOWN 1

Design 29 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 78

A top-25 position is retained for Scotland’s new superstar despite some presentation issues last year. That’s common as modern courses settle in.

The Clive Clark links is so playable, so scenic and so easy to enjoy. Lots of fun and lots of holes you can instantly recall. To rank this high so quickly is a testament to its appeal.

24. Machrihanish Dunes

Campbeltown, Argyll – DOWN 1

Design 31 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 7 Total 78

A tough ask to be anywhere near as entertaining as neighboring Mach Old, but Mach Dunes makes a good fist of it! Some crazily good green sites by David McLay Kidd, at least partly a result of its sensitive construction. A beautiful, interesting course that is a fixture in the top 25.

23. Gullane (No.1)

Gullane, East Lothian

Design 31 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 78

You are already wrapped up in the charm of Gullane before you even tee off on No.1 – which is clearly the pick of its three fine links – due to the 1st tee being in the golf-dominated town itself.

The expansive greens are terrific and it has some fabulous views, with the 360-degree vista from the 7th among the best anywhere. Just lacks a little of the dazzle of top-10 links.

22. Nairn

Nairn, Highlands – UP 3

Design 31 Setting 13 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 6 Presentation 9 Total 78

Nairn is one of the great links of Britain and Ireland, a venue for the 1999 Walker Cup as well as the 2012 Curtis Cup. It’s a fair bet many of the elite amateurs on those four teams will have left the links and remarked on Nairns greens, often by struggling to recall putting on better surfaces in their lives.

There is a glorious shimmer to them and they putt as well as they look. Fail to make a few mid-range putts here, and you know there is only one thing to blame… you.

Nairn was founded in 1887 to a design by Andrew Simpson but later extended by Old Tom Morris and revised by James Braid and Ben Sayers.

There are sea views from every hole and it gets off to a glorious start with holes routed along the coastline.

The first two are an aesthetic delight, the 3rd teases with its semi-blind approach and the short 4th is of screensaver quality. By now you are already enraptured with Nairn.

It turns inland and while some may prefer more links, some enjoy the variety.

Work by Mackenzie & Ebert has improved the bunkering and the investment in the course is recognised with this rise.

Visit https://nairngolfclub.co.uk/

21. Gleneagles (Queen’s)

Auchterarder, Perthshire – NO CHANGE

Design 30 Setting 12 Memorability 11 Playability 9 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 79

It began life as a nine-hole relief course, but is a world-class moorland. The cute sister to the King’s is the course many of us have the fondest memories of at one of the world’s best golf resorts. Playable and scoreable if you are hitting it well and always with heaps of entertainment.

Strong par 4s with pretty holes around a loch and a picturesque finish

20. Western Gailes

Irvine, Ayrshire – NO CHANGE

Design 32 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 9 Presentation 8 Total 80

For some panelists, this is the best course in the area. The views are glorious, and the rumpled land even better. It is in our World Top 100 and, because it does not have an especially high profile, some may be surprised by that – but not anyone who has been.

Set between the railway and the sea, from the 5th to the 13th is an immense test in a breeze. Burns are in play on a number of holes and green slopes can be difficult to read. Tough and unremittingly excellent.

19. The Machrie

Islay, Argyll – NO CHANGE

Design 32 Setting 13 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 81

“This playable Islay links is island golf at its finest, DJ Russell’s enhancements are wonderful,” says one panelist.

Creative shot-making and strategic thinking are required on every hole. The setting is fabulous, it is beautifully presented, loads of fun, and it’s now categorically one of Scotland’s best links.

18. Machrihanish

Campbeltown, Argyll – NO CHANGE

Design 33 Setting 13 Memorability 14 Playability 8 Consistency 6 Presentation 7 Total 81

Old Tom Morris at his very best. From the moment you tee the ball up on the famous 1st tee, you know you’re somewhere special. The holes arguably get better and better over that front nine, winding through towering dunes. The links runs out of steam on the back nine slightly, but anything seems sedate compared with the first dozen.

17. Royal Aberdeen

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire – NO CHANGE

Design 33 Setting 12 Memorability 13 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 81

You’ve heard all about the front nine, but the back isn’t bad, either and tests every club in your bag. After a wonderful start playing down towards the North Sea, the front half plays through a dune valley that could have been made for golf. Then you make an about-turn to play on the higher ground coming home. Changes are mooted here; we love it just the way it is. A class links.

16. Loch Lomond

Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire – DOWN 1

Design 30 Setting 15 Memorability 14 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 9 Total 82

How much strength in depth does Scotland have for Loch Lomond to be 16th? Sensational location as everyone knows, but also some admirable design work by Tom Weiskopf.

“The fairways are as dry as a heathland with a completely different feel underfoot to how it used to be,” reports one panelist of Loch Lomond’s costly agronomic transformation.

We can only see the former European Tour venue climbing up future lists. Breathtaking setting and often underrated design work.

15. Prestwick

Prestwick, Ayrshire – DOWN 1

Design 32 Setting 12 Memorability 14 Playability 9 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 82

The original Open Championship course is a unique layout packed with blind shots, fun and thrills, right from the moment you select a 7-iron for your opening shot… on a par 4. It only falls because of Castle Stuart’s rise; we love it.

You could never build a course like this these days, but thank goodness they did 150+ years ago. Two of the most iconic bunkers you will find anywhere and so many iconic and memorable holes.

14. Gleneagles (King’s)

Auchterarder, Perthshire – DOWN 1

Design 32 Setting 13 Memorability 12 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 82

James Braid’s imaginative moorland masterpiece sits in delightful scenery among the Ochil Hills and it is one of the best inland golf courses in Britain (and highest ranked in this list).

Packed full of majestic holes, the blind shots add to both the fun and the challenge.

13. Skibo Castle

Dornoch, Highlands – DOWN 1

Design 31 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 10 Total 82

This gorse-covered links, designed 25 years ago, has been refurbished over the past decade under the eyes of David Thomson and Tom Mackenzie to produce a significantly more inspired proposition. Incredibly well presented, it is varied, interesting and truly beautiful – as well as seriously exacting. One of the truly sublime golf experiences with a location to die for.

12. Trump International Golf Links Aberdeen

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire – DOWN 3

Design 30 Setting 15 Memorability 15 Playability 6 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 82

“Simply stunning,” says one panelist of this high-octane links that’s never been better presented.

Carved between some of the tallest dunes you can experience in Britain, its fairways are generally generous, but if you miss them it is a certain lost ball for the marram that holds the dunes in place is thick.

As the marks indicate, it lacks the design chops to be even higher – but setting and memorability are undisputed.

Read our full review of Trump International Golf Links Aberdeen.

11. Castle Stuart

Inverness, Highlands – UP 5

Design 32 Setting 14 Memorability 12 Playability 9 Consistency 8 Presentation 7 Total 82

Wonderful all-rounder with a great mix of risk and reward and a terrific set of greens. Challenges the low player, but very playable for all levels. Makes maximum use of the views and landscape and is established as a modern great.

This is a big leap for Castle Stuart in a ranking of minimal movement, but the affection for Gil Hanse’s Highlands work is strong.

Golf World Top 100: The best golf courses in Scotland – 10-1

10. Ardfin

Jura, Argyll – UP 1

Design 32 Setting 15 Memorability 15 Playability 5 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 83

“Words do not do Ardfin justice. Bob Harrison has built a spectacular course worthy of the setting,” says one panelist.

“I was blown away by the setting and the outstanding design,” says another.

“The run from the 8th to the 14th may be the most spectacular run in all of Scotland,” adds a third.

But… Ardfin is difficult and that might see its ascent stop here. It is achingly beautiful, though, and an instant bucket list course.

9. Royal Troon (Championship)

Troon, Ayrshire – UP 1

Design 34 Setting 12 Memorability 13 Playability 7 Consistency 8 Presentation 9 Total 83

Troon definitely splits the panel. Some find the first few a little modest before the links comes alive on the 7th tee with perhaps the best hole on the course – which is some compliment given what follows it.

In the par-3 8th – the Postage Stamp – Troon is home to one of the best golf holes in Britain and Ireland. The route back includes some interesting – and exacting – holes. Beautifully manicured.

Read our full review of Royal Troon’s Championship course.

8. Cruden Bay

Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire – NO CHANGE

Design 34 Setting 13 Memorability 15 Playability 7 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 84

The best golf course in Aberdeenshire slightly splits opinion on the panel; some revel in the eccentricity and memorable holes – with an exceptional run from the 3rd to the 8th – and think it could threaten the top five; others think there are too many weak holes for it to be quite so high.

It showcases one of golf’s great routings with the figure of eight around Port Errol. Crossing over in the middle, the views from the elevated 9th tee are glorious. The holes around the turn may be weaker and cost it in ‘consistency’, but it almost feels churlish for this rivals North Berwick for fun factor.

Read our full review of Cruden Bay.

7. Carnoustie (Championship)

Carnoustie, Angus – NO CHANGE

Design 34 Setting 11 Memorability 14 Playability 6 Consistency 9 Presentation 10 Total 84

The marks tell the story – which is rather their purpose. Carnoustie can match almost any course in almost any category in all but playability and setting, but even with those setbacks it still slots into seventh. Is there a weak hole on the course? We’d need some convincing.

Jack Nicklaus says it’s the toughest course on The Open rota, and it’s hard to disagree, especially if the wind blows. Perfect links presentation and a relentlessly fine challenge, with an all-world climax.

Read our full review of Carnoustie’s Championship course.

6. Kingsbarns

St Andrews, Fife – NO CHANGE

Design 32 Setting 15 Memorability 14 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 85

Most panelists’ favorite of the modern Scottish courses and No.1 in our ranking of the best new golf courses in Europe.

If you didn’t know how much earth had been moved to construct the rolling ‘linksland’, you’d swear it had been there since time began. Views of the Forth abound on every hole. Playable, but with just the right amount of challenge by Kyle Phillips. 

Read our full review of Kingsbarns.

5. North Berwick

North Berwick, East Lothian – NO CHANGE

Design 32 Setting 12 Memorability 15 Playability 8 Consistency 7 Presentation 8 Total 85

Puts a huge tick in boxes marked ‘memorability’, ‘aesthetics’, ‘design’ – and, increasingly, also ‘conditioning’. Quirky with a capital Q.

The West Links remains fertile ground for architectural ideas that have been exported around the world. From the ‘Pit’ to ‘Perfection’, the Biarritz to the Redan, it has it all. Once is never enough. As entertaining as the game can be in a championship setting. We have so much affection for it.

Read our full review of North Berwick.

4. Muirfield

Gullane, East Lothian – DOWN 1

Design 36 Setting 12 Memorability 12 Playability 6 Consistency 10 Presentation 10 Total 86 

The golfers’ golf course and for good reason the favorite Open venue for the pros. One of the best links golf courses in Britain and Ireland, it’s No.1 for several on the panel and, as an examination of your game, it has no peer in Scotland, or arguably Britain and Ireland.

What it lacks in obvious aesthetics it more than compensates for in quality, conditioning, and the exam paper it sets.

“Perhaps more should take inspiration from Muirfield’s ingenious layout,” says one panelist, of the front nine sweeping clockwise around the perimeter and the second nine playing within this loop. The changes of direction make it a constant test of brain and brawn.

It has superb bunkering and often-ignored varied greens.

Read our full review of Muirfield.

3. Royal Dornoch

Dornoch, Highlands – UP 1

Design 35 Setting 14 Memorability 14 Playability 8 Consistency 8 Presentation 8 Total 87

The best golf course in the Highlands and one of our panelist’s favorite golf courses in Britain. Another would have Dornoch at No.2… at worst. “To my mind, Dornoch has the best-combined set of par 3s I have played anywhere in the world,” says another.

This beguiling Highlands links is hardly under-appreciated at No.4, but don’t be surprised to see it nudge up in future lists.

It boasts the most mind-bending green complexes, the perfect balance of long holes, short 4s, ‘gettable’ par 5s and terrifying 3s. The split-level 8th is so good it inspired holes elsewhere in this ranking at modern greats Castle Stuart and Kingsbarns. It starts relatively sedately, but the rest of the front nine is truly epic, with the view from the 7th tee one of best in the game. A brilliant run from the 13th ensures you leave Dornoch having fallen in love.

Read our full review of Royal Dornoch.

2. Turnberry (Ailsa)

Turnberry, Ayrshire – NO CHANGE

Design 33 Setting 15  Memorability 15 Playability 8 Consistency 9 Presentation 8 Total 88

Will Turnberry ever host The Open again? It appears the ‘Trump’ name being above the door could deny us a chance to see the world’s best head for Ayrshire’s top course anytime soon, but that doesn’t have any impact on our ranking of what is a phenomenal golf course.

Those who lap up scenery would have the Ailsa top of the pile, and it would be a worthy No.1. It is now, at some points, literally unrecognizable following Martin Ebert’s masterful overhaul, offering memorable holes and a setting better than almost anywhere in the world, not just Scotland.

Couple it with a round on the King Robert course (59th on this list), and a stay at what is one of the world’s best golf resorts and you’ve got a bucket-list golf weekend.

Read our full review of the Ailsa course.

1. St Andrews (Old)

St Andrews, Fife – NO CHANGE

Design 35 Setting 14  Memorability 15 Playability 8 Consistency 9 Presentation 8 Total 89

Golfing nirvana. It may be outdated for Bryson, but it’s not outdated for us. It’s no surprise that our No.1 course in the world, No.1 golf course in Britain (and the best in Fife) is also our best golf course in Scotland.

The magisterial links is the perfect blend of strategy, history, and occasion. There are people who say those latter two elements do not deserve to be included in a ‘course’ ranking, but they are inextricable aspects of the Old, just as much as the views around the turn are to Turnberry’s Ailsa.

It divides opinion, as we found when we asked experts to tell us why the Old Course is the best in Britain, with many claiming that it wouldn’t be the same course without the aura.

But the Old is about so much more than that. The way it uses the modest contours of the land, the trip down to the Eden and the loop beside it, how the links is incorporated into the town and its peerless memorability mean it is worthy of its place right at the top of our ranking.

Is the Old Course too easy? All standards of golfer can nudge their way around the course, but you have to plot your way and play exceptionally to score well on it.

The greens are as good as it gets, and the balance of the holes is just right. Our top four are all world-class and all would be worthy No.1s, but we are sure we have the top spot correct.

Read our full review St Andrews Old Course.

READ NEXT
– Playing the Old Course in reverse
– The best golf courses in Europe

Get loads more Top 100 content by becoming a Today’s Golfer member