Bucket list golf courses

The Icons:

St Andrews Golf Courses

Few places in the world rival St Andrews Links when it comes to golfing pedigree.

Often dubbed the “home of golf” this cluster of courses in Fife is nothing short of legendary.

Some of the iconic St Andrews golf courses include:

Old Course – Widely considered to be the oldest golf course in the world, the Old Course dates back over 600 years. Walking the Old Course is to tread the same turf as golfing greats from centuries of history. With its iconic Swilcan Bridge, the infamous Hell Bunker and panoramic links views, it remains the ultimate pilgrimage for golfers.
New Course – Established in 1895, the New Course is a classic test of links-style golf. It is renowned for its undulating fairways and challenging greens – a true Scottish links experience.
Jubilee Course – Opened in 1897, the Jubilee Course is considered to be the most challenging of the St Andrews golf courses.
Castle Course – Opened in 2008, this is the newest golf course in St Andrews. The Castle Course offers spectacular views of the city and St Andrews bay.
Balgove Course – This nine-hole golf course is ideal for beginners, or golfers looking for a quick practice round.

St Andrews is where golf was born, and playing here is more than a round – it’s an immersion in tradition, heritage and the soul of the game.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known

Fife Golf Courses

If you’re after something a bit quieter, more off-the-beaten-track – but still deeply rewarding – Fife doesn’t disappoint.

Beyond the famous links lie dozens of courses that combine charm, challenge and great value.

Kingsbarns Golf Links – A stunning seaside links course just a short drive from St Andrews. Though younger than the historic courses, Kingsbarns has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best in Scotland, with sweeping ocean views and a challenging but fair layout.
Dumbarnie Links — Opened in 2020 and built on the Balcarres Estate, this modern links course blends classic Scottish coastal golf with fresh contemporary design. It’s already gained acclaim: in 2021 it hosted the Women’s Scottish Open, and recent renovations keep it among the top emerging courses in Fife.
Inland and parkland courses — For those wanting to swap wind-swept links for tranquil woodlands or gentle parkland: Fife delivers. Courses such as Balbirnie Park Golf Club, or Elmwood Golf Course offer generous fairways, varied terrain and often a more relaxed round – ideal for players seeking a peaceful game or a budget-friendly alternative.

Exploring these lesser-known courses gives you a richer, broader sense of why Fife is regarded as the UK’s golfing heartland – not just for the famous names, but for the depth of great courses across the region.

Luxury Accommodation

at Hawkswood Country Estate

For many golfers visiting Fife, the experience isn’t just about the courses – it’s about where you stay and how you travel around.

That’s why Hawkswood Country Estate is the perfect anchor for your Fife golf adventure. We offer:

Luxury accommodation – Set across 36 acres just a short 10-minute drive from St Andrews, Hawkswood offers elegant lodges with contemporary comforts. Each property features spacious rooms, fully equipped kitchens, en-suite bedrooms, memory-foam beds, and communal spaces
Golf concierge service – Hawkswood doesn’t just give you a place to stay. Their golf concierge will help you plan your entire Fife golf itinerary: tee-time bookings, equipment hire, transport to different courses – even putting you in touch with top-level coaching (by ex-tour pros) if you like.
Practice facilities & convenience — On-site you’ll find a 270-yard driving range, short-game practice areas, and all the amenities to make your stay relaxing yet golf-focused. Hawkswood makes it easy to combine rounds at iconic links with leisurely stays – a perfect “stay & play” arrangement for any serious golfer exploring Fife.

For anyone building their “bucket-list” of golf in Fife, staying at Hawkswood gives you comfort, flexibility and full access to everything this legendary golf region has to offer.