Scottish Golf- An Unassailable Charm of Scotland

The requirement of skill and fitness mingled with the appeal of an exquisite golf course and aristocratic ways has charmed people all over the world. However, it had a very small beginning in the traditional green meadows of Scotland. Golf had a humble beginning at St. Andrews golf course in Scotland. Slowly over time it has spread to other areas of the country. There are more than 550 Scottish golf courses spread across the country. For golf enthusiasts the charm of playing golf in its cradle is much more than that of fishing or whisky tasting for which Scotland is famous for as well.

Scottish Golf courses

The St. Andrews golf course is the oldest and boasts the maximum number of championships held. Other top Scottish golf courses are Turnberry, Carnoustie, kingsburns, Castle Stuart etc. However, it is almost a dream come true for every golfer to play at the cradle of golf – St. Andrews. Before going to play at St. Andrews you should keep in mind the following points.

Caddies

Before trying your hand at the oldest Scottish golf course you should book a caddie. You need it as caddies can help with the correct line from each tee which on some courses is vitally important. Moreover, there are a lot of treacherous bunkers which you need to avoid if you do not want to have a high score. The caddies have a wealth of knowledge about the course, and with their help you can enhance your playing experience.

Carts

There are not many carts available at the old course. In most cases you need a disability certificate to hire one. Carts are best booked in advance.

Pull trolleys

Trolleys are harmful for the turf which is already bogged down by more than 45000 rounds of golf played on the old course. This is why hiring trolleys on the old course is permitted only after the midday between the months of April and October. Moreover, 14 of the 18 holes in the course are double greens. So hiring a trolley may also become a punishment since you have to walk a lot.

Course ranger

If you do not have a caddie then the course rangers will come handy for you. There is a team of course rangers in the old course who patrol the links and helps maintain the pace of play. If you face any problem during playing you can always take help from them.

Fairway mats

If you are visiting some courses in Scotland in between November and April then will be required to play on fairway mats to protect the fairways during cold months.

Practice area

There are practice facilities at the St. Andrews links golf academy. If you arrive early then you can get some practice here and have a warm up.

Clubhouses

There are first class facilities for golfers at Clubhouses. You can get a magnificent view of the old course while enjoying some good food or drink.