Scotscraig Golfing Club

Scotscraig is a links course with heathland character at Tayport, about 20 minutes north of St Andrews. Founded in 1817 and a six-time Open Qualifying venue, it offers visitor tee times seven days a week and is a natural addition to a St Andrews golf trip.

Photo: Scott Cormie · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Display cropped to fit

The course and its character

Scotscraig was founded in 1817 by members of the Society of St Andrews Golfers, now the R&A, and is the oldest course still owned and played by its founding club. Davie Robertson laid out the original holes, and the first two remain as they were two centuries ago. Old Tom Morris and James Braid later refined the course. It blends links and heathland, playing firm and fast in dry conditions. The 4th, Westward Ho, is a short dogleg with a raised green designed by Braid; the club says it inspired the 'Knoll' template used at many American courses.

Booking and visitor practicalities

Visitor tee times are available seven days and can be booked online or through the central reservations team by email or phone. Scottish Golf members get a preferential rate but must book through reservations with their ID number. Scotscraig is a walking course; a self-drive buggy is available with a medical certificate or blue badge, subject to ground conditions. TaylorMade hire clubs and trolleys are available, and pre-booking is advised.

Getting there and nearby

Tayport sits on the south bank of the Tay, near the Fife end of the Tay Road Bridge, about 20 minutes from St Andrews and a short drive from Dundee. The 125-year-old clubhouse serves food and drink after your round.

Highlights

  • Founded in 1817 by members of the Society of St Andrews Golfers
  • Six-time Open Qualifying venue
  • Braid's 4th hole, Westward Ho, with its raised 'knoll' green
  • Gold Medal competition first played in 1818

Good to know

  • Visitor tee times available seven days
  • A walking course: buggies only with a medical certificate or blue badge
  • Scottish Golf members should book through central reservations with their ID number

Frequently asked questions

Nearby

Sources: scotscraiggolfingclub.com · scotscraiggolfingclub.com · scotscraiggolfingclub.com · scotscraiggolfingclub.com · golftoday.co.uk