Originally laid out in 1891 by Old Tom Morris the course received a slight makeover from John Sutherland, the club's secretary. It is one of the finest links courses in the world and regularly features in the top ten of best course listings.

At just over 6,500 yards it is not too long compared to modern layouts but still presents a mighty challenge regardless. It is bordered by the Dornoch Firth and exhibits rolling fairways and small saucer-like greens. Royal Dornoch is a favourite of former Open champion Tom Watson, who said: "It was the most fun I've had playing golf in my whole life."