Exciting Developments in Scottish Golf: What’s New at Royal Dornoch and Beyond

By Josh Sens | May 8, 2025

Golf in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands has long been steeped in vibrant history, but lately, there’s been more than just the rolling hills and ancient castles to talk about. Whether you’re a hardcore golf enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a peaceful day on the green, the recent buzz about new courses, renovations, and clubhouses serves as an invitation to take notice. Let’s dive into the latest developments that promise to enhance your golfing experience in this scenic part of the world.

One project that’s making waves is happening at Cabot Highlands, just a stone’s throw from Aberdeen. The buzz centers around Old Petty, a stunning layout designed by golf’s favorite architect, Tom Doak. This new course will open for preview play this coming summer, with the grand rollout scheduled for 2026. And if you think that’s exciting, just up the coast at Trump Aberdeen, a brand-new 18-hole course is set for a summer launch. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what’s brewing in the Highlands.

Now, shifting gears a bit farther north, we find ourselves at the iconic Royal Dornoch. This legendary club, home to the Championship Course—which proudly sits at 10th place on GOLF’s list of the Top 100 Courses in the World—has announced some ambitious new plans. The golf community is abuzz with word of a masterplan that includes a flashy new £13.9 million clubhouse and an overhaul of the Struie Course, the club’s other 18-hole layout. The best part? They’ll be utilizing 50 acres of land that the club acquired just last year.

While all the details aren’t locked in yet, golf enthusiasts can feel the excitement building. Rob Collins of King Collins Dormer Golf Course Design has shared his vision through social media, emphasizing the importance of the project for one of the world’s legendary golf clubs. Collins understands the gravity of this undertaking; it’s all about crafting a future where Royal Dornoch can shine even brighter.

As part of the revitalization efforts, there are plans for a brand-new 18-hole course, a dedicated par-3 course, and an upscale practice facility. Imagine this: a members-only short-game area, a four-hole practice loop featuring par-3 holes, and two unique putting courses modeled after the famous Himalayas. There’ll even be a special area for kids that routes right into the practice facility’s target greens. It’s like a golfer’s paradise in the making.

Speaking of the Struie Course, Collins aims to elevate this layout so it no longer plays second fiddle to the Championship Course. The goal is to create a course that stands on its own, enticing golfers to stick around and have a blast playing together. It’s not just about history; it’s about creating memorable future experiences.

What’s even cooler is that this will be King Collins Dormer’s first project in the UK. If you’re not familiar with their work, they’ve created stunning courses like Sweetens Cove in Tennessee and Landmand in Nebraska. With their track record, the Highlands can expect something truly remarkable, reinforcing their status as a must-visit golfing destination.

But the excitement doesn’t stop at Royal Dornoch. There are rumblings throughout the Highlands aimed at keeping golfers in the area longer. Why just hit up a couple of courses when you can immerse yourself in the rich golfing culture and stunning landscapes? More news is expected soon, especially regarding the fate of Coul Links, a proposed course a few miles up the coast from Royal Dornoch. This project has faced environmental opposition, leading to a prolonged debate about its future.

Local golfers and enthusiasts are on edge, eagerly awaiting a government ruling determining whether Coul Links will be granted the green light. It’s been a battle that has persisted for nearly a decade, highlighting the delicate balance between development and preservation in this stunning landscape.

So, what’s in store for you if you decide to explore the Highlands? Whether it’s the intriguing promise of new course layouts or the allure of stunning scenery, your time on the green will surely be enriched. It’s a thrilling time for golf in Scotland, with each development promising to make your experience even better.

From fantastic new designs to enhancements at traditional clubs, the Highlands are gearing up for an exciting new chapter in the world of golf. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your clubs, chalk up some travel plans, and get ready to explore the incredible golfing opportunities that await just beyond the horizon!

In summary, with everything happening in the Scottish Highlands—from new courses and enhanced facilities to ongoing debates and ambitious plans—there’s no better time to dive into the magic that is golfing in Scotland. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out!