- Outdoors & Adventure
Plan your perfect golf trip to Scotland’s North-east
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have long held a special place in the world of golf. With a coastline that sweeps dramatically, ancient linksland, and rolling inland courses carved through some of Scotland's most striking vistas, this is a region that speaks to golfers at every level.
Whether you're planning a dedicated golf break or simply want to add a few memorable rounds to your trip, here's your guide to teeing up in style across the North-east.
Premier golf courses
The North-east is home to some of the most celebrated fairways in the world—the definitive Scottish golf experience starts right here.
- Trump International Golf Links, Scotland: Hailed as The Greatest 36 Holes in Golf, Trump International sits amidst the magnificent Great Dunes of Scotland, spanning thousands of acres of glorious coastal terrain. The Old Course is woven seamlessly through towering dunes with panoramic sea views and eighteen memorable holes. The New Course, voted World's Best Golf Course 2025, is an epic links of cavernous sandy hollows, expansive wetlands and windswept mountains of marram grass. Luxurious accommodation, ancient woodlands and golden sands complete this dramatic destination.
- Sport Aberdeen: Sport Aberdeen gives golfers access to five exceptional courses, four 18-hole and one 9-hole, all for one price, with no joining fee and year-round tee times. The standout is the MacKenzie Championship Course at Hazlehead, named Best Municipal Golf Course 2026 in the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards. A 12-month adult membership starts from just £516.
- Newmachar Golf Club: Home to two outstanding courses, Newmachar warmly welcomes visiting golfers throughout the year. The Hawkshill Course is a premier championship layout, while the Swailend Course offers an enjoyable complementary round. There's also a Trackman-controlled driving range open to the public, a fully stocked pro shop, and buggy hire on site.
Want to experience the very best of the region's courses in one trip? Royal Deeside Golf Week brings it all together in one lasting event. Play the four majestic courses along the world-famous River Dee (Banchory, Aboyne and Ballater finishing off at Braemar : the highest 18-hole course in Scotland. With the 2026 event already fully booked, register your interest now for 2027 with a chance to win free entry to the tournament.
For all abilities and occasions
You don't have to be a professional to enjoy the North-east's courses. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find welcoming fairways perfect for a relaxed round.
- Inchmarlo Golf Centre: Set against the backdrop of Royal Deeside, Inchmarlo is a welcoming destination for golfers, whether you are introducing the family to the game or fine-tuning your own skills. The 9-hole Queen's Course is full of natural challenges, while the fully covered and floodlit driving range features Toptracer Range Technology in every bay, included in the price of range balls. The range is fully automated and open 24/7 with no booking required.
- Insch Golf Club: This warm and sociable club has earned a devoted following and the awards to prove it. Winners of the Scottish Enterprise 'Most Hospitable Golf Club' for 2023, 2024 and 2025, Insch is a club that puts people first. The course has recently been re-rated with ability tees introduced to make the game more accessible for all while playing a key role in welcoming more women to the club. With no waiting list and no joining fee, there's never been a better time to get involved.
Where to stay
Golf in the North-east is a year-round pursuit, and whether you're visiting in the long light of a summer evening or the crisp stillness of a winter morning, the region's accommodation has you covered.
- The Aberdeen Dyce Hotel: Whatever the season, the Dyce Hotel makes a great base for exploring iconic courses. Spacious rooms for golf groups, complimentary gym, sauna and pool access, and the on-site Caskieben Bar and Restaurant make it a convenient year-round choice. Located just ten minutes from Aberdeen Airport, the hotel is also within easy walking distance of Dyce station.
- The Aberdeen Altens Hotel: With flexible booking options and excellent road links to Aberdeenshire's courses throughout the year, Altens Hotel is a reliable choice for any golf trip. Complimentary leisure facilities and the Coast and Keg Bar and Restaurant on site mean everything you need is right there, no matter when you visit.
- Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel and Spa: A four-star city-centre hotel that comes into its own in every season. Choose from 218 bedrooms and suites, or unwind in the Signature Spa, complete with a sauna, steam room, and tailored treatments. The Chop Grill and Bar and dedicated whisky lounge, Freedom An' Whisky, offer the perfect post-round retreat whatever the weather.
Getting there in style
The perfect golf break deserves seamless travel from start to finish. Leathan Prestige is a family-owned luxury transport specialist based in Portlethen, Aberdeenshire, offering refined, bespoke transport for groups of every size, from executive vehicles to luxury coaches. With specialist knowledge of the region's top destinations, they ensure your transit is as relaxed as your time on the fairways.
From the drama of the Great Dunes to friendly club houses at the heart of local communities, golf in the North-east is as varied as the landscape itself. Whether you're after a renowned links challenge, a sociable round with friends, or simply want to sharpen your swing on a state-of-the-art driving range, you’ll find the perfect place to start your next Scottish golf adventure.
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