Scotland has a rich history when it comes to playing golf. The rugged landscape and valleys help to create great surroundings in which you can’t help but be impressed by the surroundings that this country has to offer. The Robertson families of Scotland were among the first Europeans to play the game around the 16th century and the first golf clubs were started in that time. There were craftsmen who created the first version of the balls that we now use for golf and the first name for this game was ‘goff’. Nowadays Scotland still exhibits not only some of the best European golf courses but the country is also known for its welcoming attitude towards tourist.

Golf destinations

There are many different locations for golfing in Scotland and most courses are close enough to bigger cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh to combine a shopping or sightseeing trip with some top quality golfing. If you are visiting London it is worth taking a one hour flight to Glasgow just to experience the best that Scotland has to offer in surroundings, golfing and fine dining. Try the British Open course known as Carnoustie or the Gleneagles Centenary course in the middle of the country. It is here that the 2008 Ryder Cup will be hosted and its spectacular views will be seen all around the world.

Climate

In the golfing season (between May and September) you can expect temperatures ranging between 17 and 24C. The west coast (Turnberry) is usually fairly mild and there are courses offering games even in the winter here. The weather is fairly predictable in this area and should be your first choice for a winter visit to Scotland.

Accommodation

St Andrews, the capital of Scotland, is the best place to go to for golfing in Scotland. With the best of both worlds, shopping, entertainment and plenty of opportunity to relax and play a game of golf, you will feel right at home here. The famous St Andrews Old Course has been in use since the 15th century and is still surrounded by the best B&B’s and luxury hotels that Scotland has to offer. Lorring golf offers great accommodation and is situated only a few steps away from the Old Course for your convenience.

Food

Golfing in Scotland makes you hungry and thankfully you have come to the right country for a great sturdy meal. Of course there is the traditional Haggis. A sheep’s stomach filled with seasoned sheep’s intestines and oats is known as Haggis and is considered to be a great Scottish delicacy. Don’t be put off by the sound of this dish, for it tastes great. Oat cakes and the Scottish Stowie cheese should be washed down with a whisky in one of the luxury restaurants that can be found near any of the quality golf courts that this country has to offer.