Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Carnoustie & Beyond
Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses
Carnooustie is steeped in golfing history, and its influence extends to the surrounding Angus region. While the Championship course is the jewel in the crown, several other courses offer exceptional experiences.
- Carnoustie Championship Course: (Green Fee: £95-£150, Cart £35) – The undisputed star. Designed by James Braid, it’s renowned for its fierce reputation and demanding layout. Signature holes include the infamous 13th (Brooch), a daunting uphill par 4 guarded by bunkers, and the 19th, a testing par 4 with a dramatic finish. The course adapts beautifully to the often-challenging Angus terrain, with undulating fairways and strategically placed hazards. It holds immense cultural significance, having hosted numerous Open Championships. Local players respect its difficulty and the skill it demands.
- Carronhead Golf Club: (Green Fee: £45-£65, Cart £20) – A delightful, links-style course offering a more relaxed experience than Carnoustie. It’s a favourite amongst locals for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained course. The layout is relatively forgiving, making it suitable for golfers of all abilities. The clubhouse offers excellent food and drink, and the views over the River Carron are stunning. It’s a popular choice for a casual round.
- Auchmacbie Golf Club: (Green Fee: £55-£75, Cart £25) – A traditional, tree-lined course with a challenging layout. It requires accuracy off the tee and careful approach play. Auchmacbie has a strong local following and is known for its welcoming atmosphere. The course is meticulously maintained, and the greens are consistently excellent. It’s a good test of strategic thinking.
- Edzell Golf Club: (Green Fee: £40-£60, Cart £15) – A charming, nine-hole course with a friendly atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for a quick round and is particularly well-suited to visitors. The course is relatively flat and easy to navigate. It’s a great introduction to golfing in Angus.
- Longnook Golf Club: (Green Fee: £40-£60, Cart £15) – A well-maintained nine-hole course with a good mix of challenging and forgiving holes. It’s a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. The course is known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent value.
- Memorie Golf Club: (Green Fee: £45-£65, Cart £20) – A nine-hole course with a traditional layout. It offers a good test of accuracy and strategy. The course is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Errol Golf Club: (Green Fee: £35-£55, Cart £15) – A nine-hole course with a relaxed atmosphere. It's a good option for a casual round and is particularly popular with families.
Hidden Gems
- Crathes Castle Golf Course: (Green Fee: £50-£70, Cart £20) – Located within the grounds of the historic Crathes Castle, this nine-hole course offers a unique and picturesque golfing experience. The course is relatively short and easy to play, making it a good option for visitors looking for a relaxed round. The setting is truly special.
- Glenmont Golf Club: (Green Fee: £40-£60, Cart £15) – A hidden gem with a challenging layout and stunning views. It's a popular choice amongst locals and offers excellent value for money.
Premium Options
- The Old Course at Balgove: (Green Fee: £120-£180, Cart £40) – A championship course designed by William Mitchell, offering a challenging and rewarding experience. It's a popular choice for serious golfers.
- Golf at Thornton: (Green Fee: £100-£160, Cart £35) – A prestigious club with a challenging layout and excellent facilities. It's a popular choice for corporate events and tournaments.
Value Champions
- Edzell Golf Club: (Green Fee: £40-£60, Cart £15) – As mentioned above, a great value option.
- Longnook Golf Club: (Green Fee: £40-£60, Cart £15) – Another excellent value choice.
International Golfer Essentials
Difficulty & Standards
- Handicap Ratings: Local handicap ratings are based on the Scottish system, which differs slightly from the USGA/R&A system. Expect a generally lower handicap rating than you might be accustomed to. The slope ratings are comparable, but it's always wise to check the specific course’s rating.
- USGA/R&A Slope: Slope ratings typically range from 100-130, indicating the difficulty of the course relative to a par 70.
Language Considerations
- English Proficiency: English is widely spoken throughout Angus. You’ll have no problem communicating with most people.
- Key Golf Terms: While many golf terms are universally understood, be aware of some local variations. For example, "the back nine" is simply "the back nine." "Fore!" is universally used.
- Communication Tips: A friendly greeting ("Good morning/afternoon") before starting your round is always appreciated. Be mindful of pace of play and avoid excessive chatter during play.
Cultural Golf Etiquette
- Local Customs: Respect for the course and other players is paramount. Avoid walking on putting lines, rake bunkers carefully, and repair divots.
- Dress Codes: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid denim, sportswear, and offensive clothing. Some clubs may have specific dress codes, particularly for evening events.
- Pace of Play: Maintaining a reasonable pace of play is highly valued. Be ready to play when it’s your turn and avoid dawdling.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Scotland. However, it is polite to offer a small tip to your caddie if you are satisfied with their service.
Booking Requirements
- Advance Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Many courses use online booking systems.
- Documentation: A valid passport is required for international visitors. Some clubs may require proof of membership or a letter of introduction.
- Guest Policies: Most clubs welcome guests, but there may be restrictions on playing with non-members.
Seasonal & Climate Intelligence
Monthly Playing Guide
| Month | Weather Patterns | Rainfall (mm) | Temperature (°C) | Optimal Playing Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Cold, wet, often windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
| February | Cold, wet, often windy. | 70-90 | 0-5 | Limited |
| March | Gradually improving, still prone to rain. | 70-80 | 3-8 | Improving |
| April | Variable, with periods of sunshine. | 60-70 | 8-12 | Good |
| May | Generally mild and dry. | 40-50 | 12-16 | Excellent |
| June | Warm and dry, with long daylight hours. | 30-40 | 16-20 | Excellent |
| July | Warm, with occasional showers. | 30-40 | 18-22 | Excellent |
| August | Warm, with occasional showers. | 30-40 | 18-22 | Excellent |
| September | Mild, with increasing rainfall. | 50-60 | 14-18 | Good |
| October | Cool and wet. | 70-80 | 8-12 | Limited |
| November | Cold, wet, often windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
| December | Cold, wet, often windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
Peak Season Strategy
- Peak Season: July and August are the busiest months, with higher prices and increased demand.
- Pricing Fluctuations: Green fees and accommodation prices are significantly higher during peak season.
- Advance Booking: Book tee times and accommodation well in advance (3-6 months) to secure your preferred options.
Off-Season Opportunities
- Shoulder Season (April-May & September-October): Enjoy lower prices, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
- Reduced Rates: Many courses offer discounted rates during the shoulder season.
- Fewer Crowds: Experience a more relaxed and peaceful golfing environment.
Weather Contingencies
- Indoor Facilities: Some clubs have indoor practice facilities, including driving ranges and short game areas.
- Covered Ranges: Many driving ranges are covered, allowing you to practice regardless of the weather.
- Alternative Activities: Explore the surrounding area, visit local attractions, or enjoy a traditional pub meal.
Practical Travel Integration
Access & Transportation
- Airport Proximity: Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is the closest airport, approximately 45 minutes by car. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is a longer drive (around 1.5 hours).
- Rental Car: A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the region and visiting multiple courses.
- Public Transport: Public transport options are limited. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but can be expensive.
Accommodation Partnerships
- Stay-and-Play Packages: Many hotels and resorts offer stay-and-play packages that include accommodation, green fees, and sometimes caddie services.
- Nearby Hotels & Resorts: Numerous hotels and resorts are located near the golf courses, offering a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
Multi-Course Planning
- Logical Routing: Plan your itinerary to minimize driving time between courses. Consider grouping courses together that are geographically close.
- Distances: Distances between courses vary, but generally range from 15-45 minutes by car.
Equipment Considerations
- Club Rental: Most clubs offer club rental services. The quality of rental clubs varies, so it's worth checking their condition.
- Shipping Options: Several companies offer shipping services for golf clubs.
- Local Pro Shops: Local pro shops offer a range of services, including club fitting, repairs, and accessories.
Financial & Legal Framework
Pricing Structure
- Green Fees: Green fees range from £40 to £150, depending on the course and time of year.
- Cart Fees: Cart fees typically range from £15 to £40.
- Caddie Costs: Caddie costs range from £40 to £80 per round.
- Mandatory Charges: Some courses may have mandatory charges for using the clubhouse or other facilities.
Payment Methods
- Accepted Cards: Most courses accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
- Cash Requirements: It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
- Currency Exchange: Exchange currency at a reputable bank or exchange bureau for the best rates.
Visitor Documentation
- Passport: A valid passport is required for international visitors.
- Visa: Check visa requirements for your nationality.
This information should provide a comprehensive overview of golfing in Angus, Scotland. Enjoy your round!