Perthshire: Scotland’s Golf Heartland
Gleneagles PGA Centenary Course
Perthshire is often referred to as the gateway to the Highlands, but for golfers, it’s a destination in its own right. With spectacular scenery, varied terrain, and a rich tapestry of courses that blend world-class design with warm hospitality, Perthshire has everything for the golf traveller. From legendary layouts to charming village courses, the region offers accessibility, affordability, and authenticity in abundance.
Gleneagles needs no introduction. As the only venue in Europe to host both the Ryder Cup (2014) and Solheim Cup (2019), its reputation is cemented globally. The King’s Course, opened in 1919, is a James Braid classic that flows across heather-clad hills, offering majestic views and strategic tests. The Queen’s, slightly shorter but equally beautiful, winds through woodland and moor, demanding finesse and accuracy. Both are ranked among the finest inland courses in the UK.
The PGA Centenary Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a modern contrast. Longer and bolder in scale, it is tailored to championship play but remains enjoyable for all standards. Immaculately maintained and complemented by Gleneagles’ luxury service, each round feels like a special occasion. Whether walking the historic fairways of the King’s or facing the closing stretch of the PGA, Gleneagles is a bucket-list experience that blends tradition with luxury in Scotland’s golfing heartland.
Tucked into the eastern edge of Perthshire, Blairgowrie Golf Club is one of Scotland’s premier inland venues. The Rosemount Course, originally designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, later enhanced by James Braid, is a rolling heathland layout through pines and silver birch. Its fast greens, subtle elevation changes and gentle doglegs have challenged generations.
The Lansdowne Course, a tougher, tree-lined layout, is a championship test regularly used by the PGA and Scottish Golf. It rewards strategic play and accurate driving, with tighter fairways and slick greens.
The Wee Course may be shorter, but it's no pushover. Ideal for juniors, seniors or a quick warm-up, it still demands thoughtful club selection. All three are beautifully maintained, and the club’s welcoming atmosphere ensures a memorable day for visitors. Blairgowrie is a true all-rounder and perfect for golfers seeking quality, variety, and charm.
Nestled in rolling parkland just outside Perth, Murrayshall Country Estate offers two distinct courses with exceptional service. The 18-hole Murrayshall Course weaves between ancient woodland and open fields, offering elevated tees, challenging bunkers, and panoramic views. It is a strategic layout, where course management and creativity are rewarded.
The 10-hole Lynedoch Course offers a shorter but technically tricky round. Tight fairways and small greens demand precision, making it a great option for sharpening your short game or fitting in an enjoyable loop with less time.
The estate itself adds a refined touch to the experience, and recent investment has elevated both the courses and facilities. It’s an ideal base for a golfing weekend, with the ability to mix relaxed countryside charm with competitive golf. Murrayshall is a Perthshire gem increasingly gaining recognition.
Crieff Golf Club is set above the town of Crieff with stunning views across Strathearn, The Club offers 27 holes of Highland edge. The Ferntower Course is the main draw, a gently undulating layout with wide fairways and thoughtful bunkering. Its hillside setting offers sweeping vistas and a strong mix of holes. While accessible to all levels, wind and elevation can add bite.
The Dornock 9-hole course is flatter and shorter, but still enjoyable, making it perfect for a quick nine or a relaxed warm-up. Crieff’s setting, hospitality, and reputation for excellent maintenance make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. It’s an ideal representation of Perthshire golf… accessible, scenic, and always welcoming.
Pitlochry is one of Scotland’s most scenic inland courses. Perched above the town with panoramic views of Ben Vrackie and the surrounding hills, this 18-hole gem combines beauty with a touch of bite. The layout is short by modern standards but offers a brilliant variety of holes and elevation changes.
From the elevated first tee to the testing par-3s and winding par-4s, Pitlochry is a fun and memorable round. The uphill climbs are rewarded with stunning vistas, and the friendly clubhouse makes visitors feel instantly at home. A 6-hole short course and modern practice area cater to families and learners, too. For those heading north, Pitlochry is the perfect halfway house.
Located near Alyth, Strathmore Golf Centre is a model of modern rural golf. The 18-hole Rannaleroch Course is a rolling parkland layout, beautifully integrated into farmland with generous fairways and approachable greens. It’s ideal for casual golfers and society groups, offering a fair but fun test.
A 9-hole Leitfie Links course and extensive practice area make it a great all-round venue for families and beginners. The friendly atmosphere, excellent catering and year-round playability add to its appeal. Strathmore offers high value and low fuss, making it a great inclusion on any Perthshire itinerary.
Comrie Golf Club is a quintessential Highland village course, rich in charm and scenery. This 9-hole layout, set in the foothills of the Grampians, offers spectacular views and a traditional Scottish golfing experience. Despite its size, it features a mix of par-3s, 4s and a single par-5 that test all aspects of your game.
The atmosphere is laid-back, and the welcome is warm. With a history dating back to 1891, Comrie is a reminder that great golf doesn’t have to be long or expensive. It’s a joy to walk, with wildlife, wildflowers and silence the only distractions.
St Fillans Golf Club is nestled at the foot of dramatic hills near to where the River Earn flows out of Loch Earn, St Fillans is widely considered one of the prettiest 9-hole courses in Scotland. It features wide fairways, scenic glens and approachable greens, making it ideal for all abilities.
The course is flat and walkable, perfect for a relaxed round or multiple loops. A local favourite for summer evening golf, its peaceful charm and natural surroundings create a meditative golf experience. It’s everything that’s special about rural Scottish golf, condensed into nine unforgettable holes.
Perthshire’s 9-Hole Highlights
In addition to Comrie and St Fillans, Perthshire boasts a superb selection of 9-hole courses that combine affordability, charm, and scenic brilliance. Killin Golf Club is framed by mountains and rivers, offering spectacular Highland golf in miniature. Dunning Golf Club is a gently rolling parkland layout, ideal for new golfers and those seeking a quick round. Blair Atholl Golf Club, set near the entrance to the Highlands, offers a true rural escape with breathtaking backdrops.
Dunkeld and Birnam Golf Club is an Old Tom Morris original, rich in wildlife and heritage. Each of these clubs delivers something unique, with friendly atmospheres and low green fees making Perthshire’s 9-hole network one of the best-kept secrets in Scottish golf.
Where to Stay in Perthshire
Gleneagles isn’t just a hotel, it’s a destination. This five-star estate combines Edwardian elegance with modern luxury, offering everything from Michelin-starred dining to world-class spa facilities. Whether you’re teeing up at one of the three championship courses, fly-fishing on private lochs, or enjoying a dram in the American Bar, Gleneagles delivers an unmatched level of service and experience.
Accommodation ranges from lavish rooms to country estate suites. Activities abound: falconry, shooting, horse-riding, even off-road driving. It’s a resort for golfers, families, and couples alike, set amid rolling Perthshire hills. Gleneagles remains the gold standard for luxury golf breaks in Scotland.
The charming Murrayshall Country Estate blends historic character with contemporary comfort. Set in 365 acres of Perthshire countryside, Murrayshall offers stylish rooms and suites with panoramic views. The dining experience showcases Scottish produce, and outdoor pursuits like walking, cycling and fishing complement the on-site golf.
Recent investment has elevated the estate’s facilities, and the relaxed elegance of the hotel makes it a favourite for romantic getaways and golf weekends. With two golf courses on the doorstep and the city of Perth just minutes away, Murrayshall is an ideal mix of seclusion and accessibility.
Crieff Hydro is one of Scotland’s most family-friendly resorts. With over 60 indoor and outdoor activities, including tennis, archery, mountain biking and a spa, it caters to all ages and interests. The hotel itself is grand and welcoming, with a wide range of rooms, lodges and self-catering options.
The food offering spans from fine dining to casual bites, and there's even an on-site cinema. Located close to Crieff Golf Club and within easy reach of many Perthshire courses, Crieff Hydro is perfect for families where not everyone wants to golf. It’s active, accessible and full of energy.
Beyond Golf: Perthshire
Perthshire is more than golf. Explore castles like Blair and Scone, enjoy whisky tours at Glenturret or Aberfeldy, or wander scenic spots such as The Hermitage or Loch Tay. Outdoor lovers can hike Ben Lawers, fish the River Tay, or cycle quiet glens. With charming towns like Dunkeld, Aberfeldy and Pitlochry to explore, Perthshire delivers rich history, adventure and relaxation between rounds.
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