Scottish Golf Articles
Golf Breaks in the Scottish Borders
IF you’re looking for a golf break with a difference this year, you could do
far worse than visit
the Scottish Borders.
This golf-rich region shares boundaries with Dumfries and Galloway in the west, South Lanarkshire and West Lothian in the north west, the City of Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian to the north and the counties of Northumberland and Cumbria to the south. So, as you might expect, it has plenty to interest golfers of all pockets and persuasions.
It’s not just golfers who are likely to enjoy themselves in this part of the country. In fact, pretty much anyone who comes to the Scottish Borders will leave refreshed and relaxed with a barrow-full’s worth of great memories. There is just so much to see and do, you’ll have difficulty trying to cram it all into one trip. But that’s alright because, after your first visit to this enchanting part of the world, we dare say you’ll be itching to return as soon as possible.
So, what of these great courses? Well, the Borders is home to over 20 great layouts, with many more close at hand
in neighbouring counties. Furthermore, some of the world’s top golfers like to tee
it up there, including Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie, Sergio Garcia and Tony Jacklin.
But you don’t have to be a pro like these guys to get yourself a tee time in the Borders. Anyone can have a go, and that’s what makes it such a great place to enjoy a golf break.
One of those courses you should certainly have a crack at is Cardrona. Situated in the beautiful, lush surroundings of the tranquil Peebleshire countryside, this Dave Thomas-designed course is a championship standard course which is fit to test the best. Owned by Macdonald Hotels, it has fantastic accommodation on-site as well as a splendid array of exclusive leisure facilities.
The Hirsel, meantime, is located just outside the village of Coldstream in Berwickshire, it is a real gem. The southernmost course in Scotland, it was founded in 1948 and forms part of the ancestral estate of Lord David Douglas-Home, 15th Earl, Chief of the Clan Home, and son of a past Prime Minister, Sir Alec Douglas-Home.
Lilliardsedge, located just outside Jedburgh, meanwhile, is a nine-hole parkland cracker. It may only be a half-size course but do not underestimate it as it has some unforgettable holes with plenty of hazards dotted around to keep you on your toes.
Likewise, Magdalene Fields is a fair test of golf that all golfers can enjoy. Located adjacent to the beautiful and historic old seaside town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, it is a sheer, unabashed delight to play.
The same goes for so many other courses in the Scottish Borders so, it’s time to ask yourself: ‘What am I waiting for?’ Get to booking your great golf break for 2006 in the Scottish Borders without delay.
Top golfing trivia
Sergio Garcia is the holder of the course record at The Roxburghe. The Spaniard’s 66 remains unmatched on
the Dave Thomas-designed course.
The oldest club in the Borders is Hawick which opened in 1877. Indeed, 15 of the Borders golf courses date from the 1800s.
Almost without fail, the sixth hole at Eyemouth Golf Course features at the top end of lists of the world’s top 100 golf holes.
|