Top Golf Courses in Argyll and Bute
These top golf courses in Argyll and Bute have a testing variety of layouts and terrains, from classic links courses to rolling moorland, all with fantastic coastal and mountain views.
If you’re looking for a west coast course, the Kintyre Peninsula is a good place to start. It’s home to several great options, from the nine-hole course at Carradale Golf Club to the renowned Machrihanish Golf Club and neighbouring Machrihanish Dunes, as well as Dunaverty Golf Club, right on the south coastby the Mull of Kintyre.
Legendary Scottish golfer James Braid had a hand in the design of many courses here, including Helensburgh Golf Club, beside Loch Lomond, Rothesay Golf Club, overlooking the Isle of Arran,and Glencruitten Golf Club in the north, a short, hilly course with 10 par threes.
And then there are hidden gems like Bute Golf Club, a venerable stop for links golf that dates back more than a hundred years.
Whatever your preference, great golf is a given. Check out our list of the top 7 golf courses in Argyll and Bute.
Bute Golf Club
More than a hundred years old, with a wooden clubhouse dating to 1911, this nine-hole, par 34 links course has stunning views of Kilbrannan Sound and the mountains of Arran. Visitors are welcome, but booking in advance is advisable; the green fee allows you to play nine holes, 18 holes, or all day.
Does your family need something to do while you play? Check out our list of things to do in Argyll and Bute.
Dunaverty Golf Club
Founded in 1889, this undulating 18-hole, par 66 links course on the south coast of the Kintyre Peninsula is known for its stunning views of Ireland and the Mull of Kintyre, as well as some testing small greens. The clubhouse has a well-stocked shop and changing rooms, while green fees include the option for a single round, or a day ticket.
Rothesay Golf Club
This 18-hole, par 69 course was designed by famous Scottish golfer James Braid, who won the Open Championship five times, and is renowned for its views of the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran. At 5,419 yards, it’s not the longest, but will certainly prove a stern test for beginners and low handicappers alike. Watch out for the fourth, a testing 202-yard par three where many have come to grief. Visitors are welcome seven days a week, and the clubhouse is home to a popular bar and restaurant.
Feeling hungry after your round? Here’s our list of the best restaurants in Argyll and Bute.
Machrihanish Golf Club
A classic par 70 links course that includes two testing par fives, Machrihanish has been regularly listed among the top 100 courses in the UK. Your golfing nerve will be tested from the outset – the first hole requires a carry over the Atlantic Ocean, and was cited by no less than Jack Nicklaus as the best opening hole in the world. Try not to end up on the beach, because you’ll have to play from there…
Whether you’re looking for golf, gardens or top days out, you’ll find more inspiration for outdoor activities in our Ultimate Scottish Camping Guide.
Helensburgh Golf Club
Only 20 miles from Glasgow, Helensburgh’s rolling, par 69 moorland course overlooks the Clyde Estuary, Loch Lomond and the Trossach mountains, so it may be difficult to concentrate on your swing. Checking in at more than 6,000 yards, it features several testing par fours, including Clyde View, the most difficult hole on the course. Visitors are welcome seven days a week, and if you need to brush up on your skills or try out some new clubs, the pro shop includes a state of the art ‘swing studio’.
Find somewhere to stay near Helensburgh.
Carradale Golf Club
With memorable views of the Isle of Arran and the hills of Kintyre, Carradale is a nine-hole heathland and moorland course consisting of rolling terrain with rocky outcrops and some pretty small greens, characterised by short par fours and some long, testing par threes. Day tickets are available if you want to play 18 holes, or you can book a single round. Clubs and trolleys are available to hire by calling the greenkeeper.
Looking for accommodation nearby? Check out our list of campsites in Argyll and Bute.
Glencruitten Golf Club
If you want a golfing challenge with a difference, Glencruitten’s short, hilly par 61 course could be the one for you. Its narrow fairways wind through parkland known for mature trees and spring wildflowers, and seem designed to test your adaptability, with elevated greens and tees, blind shots and no less than ten par threes. The lush environment is home to much local wildlife, so keep your eyes open for buzzards, pheasants, heron and deer on your way round. It’s open to visitors throughout the year.
Appreciate a historic building? Take a look at our list of the best castles in Argyll and Bute.