Top 100 Golf Courses in Scotland

Top 100 scoTland 2015
31 Archerfield Fidra (▼ 3)
Dirleton, East Lothian. Par 72, 6,948 yards.
Designer: David Russell.
BS There is something magical about the
Fidra, woven in and around stunning tall pine
trees, that sway and whistle with the wind.
Although it’s just out of sight, the wind carries
the blissful sounds of waves lapping on the
beach. The first 12 or 13 holes are all excellent.
GW VERDICT Despite the competition in East
Lothian, should always be on your agenda.
29 Gleneagles Queen’s ( ▲ 4 )
Auchterarder, Perthshire. Par 68, 5,965
yards. Designer: James Braid.
IM This is the most fun course on the estate.
NS Very scenic and less of a slog than the
Centenary or the King’s. Enjoy the views.
MS Some consider this better than the King’s.
Beautiful surroundings, layout and condition.
AF Magical place. Front nine is very special,
with only the deer for company.
GW VERDICT Impossible not to adore it.
30
St Andrews New ( ▲ 2 )
St Andrews, Fife. Par 71, 6,625 yards. Designer: Old Tom Morris.
IM This is a magnificent links that is definitely a tougher
and fairer challenge than its famous neighbour. The
par-3 9th and par-4 10th are two of the toughest holes
in golf on which to secure back to back pars.
AM Interesting and challenging in its own right.
AS It’s a far better course than most give it credit for.
Being next door to the Old means rarely gets a look in.
I would put it in the same league as a Western Gailes.
NS I rate this the best/hardest of the St Andrews Links
courses. Loses out to the Old because it does not have
the Open Championship history.
BS One of Old Tom’s finest, the new is a pure links, and
a joy to play. Marginally let down by its one dimensional
topography and lack of sea views, but hey you’re in St
Andrews, the Home of Golf, who cares – life doesn’t get
much better than this!
AF Majestic course, the second best in St Andrews.
IJ It would be rated in the top 20 if not next to the Old.
GW VERDICT It’s agreed – the new is magnificent and
even this rise may still be harsh on a wonderful links.
28 Golf World TOp 100 SCOTLAnD 2015