Social Golf
As well as being steeped in the traditions
of the game, Scotland is famed for its golf ‘banter’ and legendary
‘19th Hole’.
For many golfers, the highlight of the year is a
long weekend away with the boys or girls and Scotland certainly
ticks every box when it comes to social golf. First and foremost,
it has an abundance of good courses that are perfect when it comes
to hosting groups of friends or, equally, golf society members.
Society golf is a big part of the sport these
days and Scotland has the perfect mix of courses for such
occasions. From Open Championship courses to hidden gems, the menu
is mouth-watering and it’s no surprise that groups return on a
regular basis.
It also has what could perhaps be described as
the ‘perfect 19th hole’, providing visitors with the sort of
welcome they expect and also the facilities they want, both at the
golf club and their hotel, guest house etc.
A warm welcome from the
locals
All over the country, at various times of the
year, Scottish golf clubs welcome groups of golfers and help them
have a time to remember. They roll out the red carpet for visitors,
both on and off the course, giving them an experience they are
never likely to forget. From the second a group of visitors arrive
at a Scottish golf club, they can be assured that their visit is in
safe hands. From the club professional to the greenkeeper, from the
secretary to the bar steward, everyone is on the ball. And it’s
exactly the same at the local hotels and guest houses. They are all
experienced at catering for golfing parties and, in some cases,
drying rooms and even separate eating areas are available.
Yes, the quality of the golf course is probably
the most important factor when it comes to evaluating whether or
not you have enjoyed yourself, but, at the same time, the 19th hole
experience can be just as important and Scotland definitely
delivers in that department.
Clubhouses the length and breadth of the country
not only provide first-class facilities and, in many cases,
breathtaking vistas, they are also warm and friendly environments,
where the chatter, more often than not, is about golf. It’s
certainly not a coincidence that courses throughout the country are
normally buzzing with golf society members, many of whom are
relatively new to the game but perhaps go on to become golf club
members themselves. They just love the opportunity to play at
different courses around the country, enjoying great value for
money in the process.
Scotland's golfing towns
One of the many great things about golf in
Scotland is that all over the country there are towns and villages
that are perfect bases for short golfing breaks. The likes of
Nairn, Troon and North Berwick, for example are golfing towns to
the core. When visiting any of them, you can set up base for a few
days and take in a whole host of courses in the immediate vicinity
without having to pack and unpack bags all the time.
Just as important, especially when it comes to
these golfing trips, is the après golf and, once again, Scotland
delivers on this count. Golfers can enjoy great food, both at golf
clubs and hotels, guest houses etc, before indulging in some banter
over a few drinks in the bar. No matter where you are, it’s likely
that you’ll hear someone talking about the game of golf they’ve
played that day or, alternatively, talking excitedly about the
superb course they’re going to be playing the next morning. Golf in
Scotland has that affect on people. It’s an experience that is
savoured and certainly not forgotten.
And, if it’s the entire family who are going on a
golfing break, there are many golf hotels and golf resorts around
the country that provide something for everyone. If dad is out on
the golf course, mum can treat herself to a Spa treatment while the
kids can enjoy an array of activities provided.
Without question, social golf is a big part of
the scene these days and there’s nowhere more social than Scotland
when it comes to golf.
Social golf information
Golf clubs will organise everything for a
visiting group or society – tee-times, scorecards, food and drink,
etc.
They will also give you something for free,
namely a warm welcome throughout your visit to the club.
Some hotels have drying rooms specifically for
visiting groups of golfers – perfect if you’ve been out on the
course on a rainy day.
Some also have a private room for dinner where
groups or societies can enjoy a meal on their own before
congregating in the bar.
