A fantastic 18-hole golf course situated in splendid isolation within the Cairngorm National Park.
Women & Golf visited a wonderful golf course recently - Kingussie Golf Club. In the area visiting friends, it seemed too good an opportunity to miss. An Old Tom Morris and Harry Vardon course - it is, as they say, "a true hidden golfing gem".
History of Kingussie Golf Club
The game was first played at Kingussie in 1890. Old Tom Morris was asked to set out a new 9-hole course in 1895 in one of the most attractive locations in the Highlands of Scotland.
Later, in 1907, Harry Vardon made a visit and set out plans for a further 9 holes on the land across the River Gynack. Since then, the course has had some small changes but layout of the course is very much the same as the original designs from the world's best known golf professionals and course architects.
The Kingussie Course
The 18-hole course provides something for every golfer, whether starting out or seasoned pro! There are a mix of generous fairways, natural challenges and rolling undulations. The course offers a good walk on upland terrain but buggies are available to hire if required..
The course is surrounded by breathtaking scenery including the gentle sounds of wildlife and the River Gynack. Quite simply, it is stunning, it provides the privilege of a challenging game of golf in the most energising Highland surroundings. The course is expertly maintained and was in pristine condition despite the rain throughout the round.
Holes to watch at Kingussie Golf Club
There are some many lovely holes at Kingussie. You are surrounded by forest and mountains and quietness. It's just a tranquil place to play.
Memorable holes for me:
4th - The Fort - one of four Par 5s on the course. A lovely tree lined fairway which slopes to the right. Long hitters could get there in two but most lay up to 100 yards and play up to an elevated green. Great views across the course.
8th - Punchbowl - cheeky blind par 3. You literally have no idea what is beyond the marker post. Use it as your guide and you 'should' be on the green.
9th - Tromie - a testing par 5. An elevated tee, a dog-leg left, a ditch across the fairway and a beautiful vista of the mountain.
The 11th, 15th and 17th deserve a shout out too.
The Clubhouse at Kingussie Golf Club
The Club House overlooks the 1st tee and the 18th Green. Members and visitors like to sit outside the Club House on warm days to enjoy the panoramic views over the course and surrounding countryside.
The traditional bar is usually open from 11am each day and Lee's Larder at the 19th catering available Wednesday - Sunday.
There is a ladies changing room with shower and hairdryer. Unfortunately, currently there are no toilets* on the course so you have to cross your legs until you get back to the Clubhouse.
Kingussie Golf Club - Course Feedback
And what did the Women & Golf Member think of the course?
"Majestic"
Course information
Kingussie is well-known for being a welcoming club with a friendly atmosphere and is proud to host a large number of visitors from far-reaching locations year after year.
18 holes | Par 72 Red Par 67 White | Private | Heathland
| Slope Rating | Women/ Men | Front 9 | Back 9 | Total | Length |
| Red | W | 71.1/ 131 | 5,051 | ||
| White | M | 68.4/125 | 5,501 |
Club hire | Buggy Hire | Caddie Hire | Pro shop | Changing rooms (male only) | Clubhouse Bar & Food | Function Room Hire | Handicap required
Tee Time Information & Prices
| £££ | |
| Single round | £45 |
| Daily ticket | £55 |
| Weekday Twilight (after 5pm) | £20 |
Please enquire re large group/ society bookings by calling the Pro Shop
Visitor Information
Visitors are welcome to play the course. Golf clubs, trolleys (pull & electric), and buggies are all available to hire. Click here for latest prices.
You can also hire a caddie with a minimum of 2 weeks notice. £30 per round + gratuity.
Contact Information
Address: Kingussie Golf Club, Gynack Rd, Kingussie PH21 1LR [click here for map]
Tel: +44 (0)1540 661600
Email: [email protected]
Website: kingussiegolfclub.co.uk
LADIES OPEN 2024
Please note the Ladies Open will be held on Friday 5th July 2024. Kingussie look forward to welcoming you. Keep an eye on their Opens Entry page on the website.
Fascinating Fact: Not many golf courses can pride itself on being designed by Old Tom Morris and extended by Harry Vardon!
For the non-golfers: There are lots of things to stay and do in the area:
- Cairngorms National Park - great walking
- Highland Wildlife Park - who knew there were tigers & polar bears in Scotland?
- Alvie Estate - horse riding, fishing, deer photography, archery, clay pigeon shooting
- Strathspey Railway - a great way to see the countryside & be transported back to the 1950s
- Kinrara Gin Distillery - a Scottish craft gin producer set within the adventurous landscape of The Cairngorms
I stayed at the rather lovely Viewmount hosted by Esther, where attention to detail and exemplary hospitality service are the norm.
I cannot fault the 5-star splendour & opulent luxury at one of "Scotland's Best B&Bs". The generous South African hospitality is hard to beat.
Hearty breakfast, scrumptious rooms with fantastic beds and a honesty bar that is without equal.
What more could you want?
Women & Golf members will receive a 10% discount on booking directly on 07890 518836 - quote "Jane at Women & Golf".
* A planning application has been submitted for a toilet to be sited near the 9th tee.
