The Crail Golfing Society is the 7th oldest golf club in the world.
Golfing legend Old Tom Morris laid out the original nine holes at Balcomie in 1895 and in 1998 a second course, Craighead Links, was designed by Gil Hanse, whose outstanding work was recognised in 2009 with the Golf Course Architect of the Year Award.
A combination of stunning coastal views, centuries of history and hugely enjoyable golf is what makes Balcomie Links one of Scotland’s most finely polished, golfing gems.
This traditional, classic links course was laid out by the old master himself, Tom Morris, and opened in 1895. Created in the days when course design was governed by the natural lie of the land and not the mechanical earth mover, Balcomie has the unusual combination of three par fives, six par threes and nine par fours, producing a tough par of 69. Extraordinary holes abound, along with those which seriously challenge and those which are more comfortable. The sum total is a layout which both enchants and delights, but which also demands and punishes, testing all the skills in a golfer’s armoury – as well as his nerve. Those length seekers who believe Balcomie will be a soft touch, do so at their peril.
With spectacular views – the sea is visible from every hole – Craighead Links achieved fame in the 2001 Guiness Book of Records for the most nationalities playing in an international tournament.
This challenging, cliff-top course was designed by world-renowned, golf course architect Gil Hanse to provide golfing aficionados with a true test of their shotmaking skills in a links environment.
Built in the style of a traditional links course – with no trees protecting golf shots from the wind – Craighead provides panoramic views of up to 100 miles, legally protected Sites of Special Scientific Interest flanking the 13th and 14th holes, and a World War I pill box behind the 7th green, all in addition to serious golf.
