A Golfer’s Journey Through Scotland
18/02/2026

Grant’s Insights on Top Courses, Classic Links, and Chauffeur-Friendly Destinations

As the golf season begins to take shape and Scotland’s courses come alive with fresh energy, we turned to someone who knows our fairways better than most – our Tour Executive, Grant. A lifelong golfer with a passion for exploring Scotland’s most iconic and under‑the‑radar courses, Grant brings a blend of local knowledge, personal experience, and genuine enthusiasm for the game.

In this blog, Grant shares his top picks for the months ahead, reflects on the lessons golf has taught him over the years, and offers insight into the very best destinations for a full-day tour or chauffeur-driven experience. If you’re gearing up for the season, this is the perfect place to start.

What are your top course recommendations for this season, and why?

Ladybank Golf Course in the heart of Fife is a brilliant heathland course that is an Open Championship qualifier. Another one would be the Craigtoun Course in St Andrews. This used to be called The Duke’s but was renamed very recently. It offers a unique heathland experience in St Andrews which is renowned for its Links courses. Having played both a few times, I can firmly recommend them.

What’s one lesson golf has taught you over the years?

I would say the main thing Golf teaches you is that you require a strong mentality, not just skill to play the game. You must be able to forget about a bad hole for example and not let it ruin the rest of your round. We all hit bad shots; you just need to not dwell on it.

Which Scottish courses do you think everyone should play at least once?

I would have to say the Old Course at St Andrews. It’s the Home of Golf and a must for Golfers. I still need to play it! On a personal note, I would recommend Crail Balcomie Links. It is situated right on the coast and offers stunning views. The course is also a little quirky and provides a challenge to golfers at all skill levels.

Do you have a favourite course for beginners or those returning to the game?

I would say 9-hole courses are a good way to start. St Andrews has The Balgove Course which is an excellent introduction to links Golf. I remember playing it many times when I was younger. I would also say local community or council course are good as they are less challenging and more budget friendly.

If you could play any course in the world, which would it be?

Again, the Old Course as I’ve still to play it. However, I would say Augusta National, home of The Masters tournament. You must be a member or former Champion to play it so no chance!

Which destinations are ideal for a full-day or multi-course golf tour?

St Andrews is perfect as it has 10 courses overall. It is also a good hub as the courses at Kingsbarns and Crail are a short drive away. Gleneagles is also great as it has 4 courses, including the “Wee Course” ideal for beginners.

Which golf courses pair especially well with a chauffeur-driven experience?

Those would be some the most iconic in the Country. St Andrews (Old Course), Royal Troon, Turnberry, Gleneagles, Carnoustie and Muirfield are all Open Championship Courses. Royal Dornoch is also very good. Scotland offers an incredible range of courses, and visiting golfers often seek out those with rich history and unique character-not just the most famous names.