Five ‘must-play’ golf courses in Scotland – and how you can play them

Scotland serves as the spiritual centre of the golfing universe – and some of its courses are among the most memorable.

Many have a heritage that ensures they enjoy a certain amount of protection from the government, but there are plenty that are considered ‘must-play’.

Here are five of the very best.

Carnoustie – Championship Course

A course that has been heavily deployed in the Open Championship rota since it first staged the event in 1931, Carnoustie is easy enough to play with multiple ways to book a round.

In season from May 1 until October 15, Green Fees will set you back £282.00 to play the championship course.

Non-members who want to play the Championship course must have a recognised handicap of 28 or less for men and 36 or less for women and could be asked to produce their current handicap certificate prior to play.

Carnoustie has a few potential ‘featured’ holes, but the 18th brings an extreme challenge of players’ skills and famously cost Jean Van De Velde the Open Championship in 1999.

North Berwick Golf Club – West Links

Since the 17th century, golfers have enjoyed playing on the storied West Links, which offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth and the islands of Bass Rock, Craigleith, Lamb and Fidra from practically every tee.

North Berwick Golf Club limits its membership to 500 and is not currently accepting applications from men who want to become members as the club prepares to welcome women to its ranks.

In season you will be asked to fork over £200 in Green Fees, but between November and the end of March that rate drops to £110. Juniors with a valid handicap will pay 50% of the adult rate.

All golfers hoping to play the West Links should have a handicap of no more than 24 for men and 36 for ladies with certification required for visitors to be allowed onto the course.

Muirfield

While visitors are welcome to play Muirfield, they will have to turn up on Tuesday or Thursday.

The club has typically high standards of attire, but most golfers should expect that of a venue with this kind of history.

Green fees come to £325 for one round and £495 for two rounds on the day with lunch included in the latter.

You will need to have a 24 or lower handicap in order to gain access to the course.

Royal Dornoch – Championship Course

Royal Dornoch is a member of the Highland Golf Links Association which offers some attractive package deals to visit the famous course.

In season a single round at Royal Dornoch will set you back £250, while out of season that drops to £140. Combos are also available with a double round on the same day setting you back £400. A £290 combination ticket entitles players to one round on each course on the same day or over two consecutive days.

Royal Dornoch has a handicap recommendation of 24, but this is not strictly enforced. However, players must maintain an acceptable pace of play.

St. Andrews – Old Course

It may border on cliche, but it is well worth the battle to secure a tee time at St Andrews if you have the slightest fondness for the sport.

St Andrews has an open ballot for tee-off slots, but you can also try to make an advanced booking.

In the high season, a round at St Andrews will be tough to bag and will set you back £320. That drops to £150 during the low season. During the two brief shoulder seasons, the rate is £210.

Golfers with a handicap over 36 will not be allowed to play the Old Course and St Andrews.