Introduction

This evening, I am providing a brief history of golf in Scotland.

Information on the history of golf in Scotland

It can be argued that golf forms part of the fabric of life in Scotland.

The game appears to have originated on Scotland’s east coast on ground known as ‘links’. This consists of a ‘no-mans-land’ close to the coast comprising a sandy surface. Whilst unsuitable for cultivation, when combined with undulating contours, the surface proves ideal for the sport of golf.

Links course at Royal Dornoch

There is no documented history of golf but it may well have originated around St. Andrews.This could have been as far back as the 12th or 13th centuries. The game was certainly established by 1457 as in that year King James II passed legislation to ban it! Rules and clubs began to emerge in the 18th century. The first documented club was the Gentlemen Golfers of Leith established in 1744. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club at St. Andrews gradually assumed ascendancy in the 19th century. In 1897 the Royal and Ancient was responsible for codifying the rules.

Today, golf is played all over the world. In Scotland the premier courses include: Old Course at St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Muirfield, Musselburgh, North Berwick, Prestwick, Royal Aberdeen, Machrihanish, Royal Troon, Turnberry and Royal Dornoch. In July 2023 the Scottish Open will be held at North Berwick.

More information on Scottish courses can be found here.

More information

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes sections on golf, St. Andrews and much more. ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.