For a first time golf tour in Scotland, the best approach is to concentrate on two regions rather than spending too much time travelling. A combination of St Andrews and East Lothian provides iconic links golf, historic towns, excellent hotels and a memorable introduction to the Home of Golf.
Concierge Golf Scotland First Time Scotland Golf Itinerary
Days 1–3: Edinburgh and East Lothian
Begin with two nights in Edinburgh, allowing time to explore the capital while playing courses along Scotland’s Golf Coast.
Recommended courses include:
- North Berwick Golf Club – A wonderfully natural and entertaining links with magnificent coastal views.
- Gullane Golf Club – Gullane No. 1 is a prestigious championship course offering panoramic views across the Firth of Forth. There are four Gullane Courses to play.
- Muirfield – One of Scotland’s most respected courses, although visitor availability is limited and should be secured well in advance. Remember to request to book in February for the following year.
- Archerfield – A modern championship venue offering 36 holes of premium golf experience.
- Dunbar Golf Club – A traditional links and an excellent alternative when the headline courses are unavailable.
Edinburgh is approximately 40 minutes from many East Lothian courses, making chauffeur-driven day trips straightforward.
Days 4–7: St Andrews and Fife
Travel north across the Forth bridges to St Andrews, the historic Home of Golf. A first-time trip should allow at least three or four nights here.
Recommended courses include:
- The Old Course – The ultimate ambition for most golfers, although access is not guaranteed. Options include the advance ballot, daily ballot and singles queue.
- The New Course – Despite its name, it opened in 1895 and offers an outstanding traditional links experience.
- The Castle Course – A dramatic clifftop course with spectacular views towards St Andrews.
- Kingsbarns Golf Links – A beautifully presented modern links and one of Scotland’s leading visitor experiences.
- Carnoustie Championship Course – A demanding Open Championship venue approximately 45 minutes from St Andrews.
- Dumbarnie Links – A contemporary links with generous fairways, impressive coastal scenery and excellent hospitality.
How Many Rounds Should You Play?
For a seven-night tour, five or six rounds normally provide the right balance. Playing every day can become tiring, particularly when experiencing firm links courses, strong coastal winds and walking several rounds consecutively.
A balanced schedule could be:
- North Berwick
- Gullane No. 1
- Travel and sightseeing day
- Kingsbarns
- Old Course ballot day or New Course
- Carnoustie
- Castle Course or Dumbarnie
Keeping one flexible day in St Andrews is particularly valuable if you intend to enter the Old Course ballot.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The main Scottish golf season generally runs from April to October.
- April and May: Longer days, excellent course conditions and often better value.
- June: Very long daylight hours and ideal for golfers hoping to play 36 holes.
- July and August: Peak summer demand, higher prices and limited availability.
- September: One of the most attractive months for links golf, with mature course conditions.
- October: Cooler and less predictable, but often quieter and more affordable.
For a first visit, May, June or September would usually be my preference.
Should You Stay in Edinburgh or East Lothian?
Edinburgh is best for visitors who want five-star hotels, restaurants, history, shopping and nightlife. East Lothian is better for golfers who prefer shorter transfers, coastal surroundings and a quieter atmosphere.
Leading Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral, Gleneagles Townhouse, 100 Princes Street, The Caledonian Edinburgh and Prestonfield House. In East Lothian, Greywalls Hotel is particularly convenient for Muirfield and Gullane.
Chauffeur-Driven or Self-Drive?
A chauffeur-driven vehicle is the most comfortable choice for a luxury golf tour. It provides:
- Airport collection and departure transfers
- Space for passengers, luggage and golf travel cases
- Reliable transfers to early tee times
- Freedom to enjoy drinks after golf
- Assistance when plans or weather conditions change
- Comfortable travel between Edinburgh and St Andrews
Self-drive can reduce the overall cost, but golfers should be comfortable driving on the left and navigating narrow roads.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
For the best-known courses and five-star hotels, planning should begin approximately 12 to 18 months before travelling. Muirfield, Kingsbarns, Carnoustie and leading St Andrews hotels can have limited availability during peak periods.
Golfers should also understand that a tour operator cannot guarantee access to every famous course. The Old Course, in particular, requires careful planning and flexibility. Check out our blog post on how to book the Old Course. CLICK HERE
What Should You Pack?
Scottish weather can change quickly, even during summer. Golfers should bring:
- Fully waterproof jacket and trousers
- Several lightweight layers
- Warm hat and cap
- At least two pairs of golf shoes
- Extra gloves and socks
- A compact umbrella
- Sunscreen
- A smaller carry bag if preferred for links golf
Avoid packing only heavy clothing. Several breathable layers are more practical than one thick garment. Check out Conciege Golf Ireland’s list of things to pack. CLICK HERE
Make Time for Scotland Away from the Golf Course
A first Scottish golf tour should include more than tee times. Consider adding:
- Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
- A whisky-tasting experience
- Dinner overlooking St Andrews’ Old Course
- A visit to the R&A World Golf Museum
- Coastal villages such as Crail and Elie
- Historic pubs and restaurants in Edinburgh
- A walk across the Swilcan Bridge when access permits
The Best Advice for a First Scottish Golf Tour
Do not try to cover every major golf region in one week. Scotland may appear small on a map, but repeatedly changing hotels and spending several hours travelling can take away from the experience.
For a first visit, Edinburgh, East Lothian and St Andrews deliver everything most golfers hope to find: historic links, Open Championship venues, luxury accommodation, Scottish hospitality and the opportunity to experience the Home of Golf.
Concierge Golf Scotland can arrange the complete journey, including carefully selected tee times, luxury hotels, private chauffeur transportation, dining reservations, sightseeing and support throughout the tour.
