The spectacular golfing landscape of Scotland – from the world-renowned coastal linksland to the rolling hills and parkland which are found further inland – offers so much to explore just north of our region
The Auld Cross Keys Inn
The Auld Cross Keys Inn has been at the heart of life in the village of Denholm for more than 200 years, and remains a popular choice for visitors to the Scottish Borders – including golfers. The inn can accommodate up to 26 people in its 12 rooms and offers quality food, drink and accommodation at competitive prices. Some of the Borders’ best courses are just a short drive away – including Eyemouth, Torwoodlee, Minto, Jedburgh and Kelso. Auld Cross Keys Inn, Main Street, Denholm, Hawick, TD9 8NU, tel 01450 870 305, www.crosskeysdenholm.co.uk
Lundin Golf Club
Laid out and refined by some of golf’s greatest architects including Old Tom Morris and James Braid, the course at Lundin, which was formed in 1868, remains one of Scotland’s finest links. With views across the Firth of Forth, the course remains largely as it was some 100 years ago. The first five holes, laid out in the links tradition, proceed to the Mile Dyke. Players then cross the now extinct railway line and play the relatively newer James Braid-designed nine holes before returning across the railway to the linksland. Though it is not long, Lundin remains a thorough test of golfing skill, as seen during its turns as a Final Qualifying venue for the Open Championship. A number of hotels and guest houses across Fife cater for golfers, and Lundin makes a perfect day out as part of a short break in the area. Lundin Golf Club, Golf Road, Lundin Links, Fife, KY8 6BA, tel 01333 320 202, www.lundingolfclub.co.uk
Torwoodlee Golf Club
The rolling parkland layout just outside Galashiels in the beautiful Borders countryside at Torwoodlee is set in a valley among mature trees, which is flanked by the River Gala and divided by the Borders Railway line. Founded in 1895, the club is one of south Scotland’s best and is steeped in history. The course, measuring 6,021 yards with a par of 69, offers a great challenge to all levels of golfers – and memorable holes, stunning views and wildlife make this a must-play. Torwoodlee Golf Club, Edinburgh Road, Galashiels, Selkirkshire TD1 2NE, tel 01896 752 260, www.torwoodleegolfclub.co.uk
St Boswells Golf Club
What St Boswells lacks in length it makes up for with a fantastic location. The 2,761-yard par 34 course sits on the south bank of the River Tweed, with the nine holes beginning above the river before descending at the par three second hole, and then playing out and back on the flat just yards from the water. A sharp short game will yield birdies here, while wayward tee shots will be punished by trees, bunkers and water – not least the river! Sharing the setting with anglers and the wildlife, there are few more relaxing places to play golf, and this makes a great venue for an away day on its own, or for an additional round to extend your visit to Scotland. St Boswells, Braeheads, TD6 0DE, tel 01835 823 527, www.stboswellsgolfclub.co.uk
