How Much Does A 7 Day Scotland Golf Trip Cost: Guide
A 7-day golf trip to Scotland can cost anywhere from £2,000 to over £10,000 per person, depending on your choices. This wide range covers everything from an affordable Scotland golf package focusing on hidden gems and budget stays to a luxury Scotland golf trip with private drivers, top courses, and five-star hotels. The average cost for a Scotland golf tour often falls in the middle, around £4,000 to £6,000 per person for a good mix of famous and less known courses, comfortable hotels, and rental car transport. Your Scotland golf vacation budget is a big factor, as is how many people are in your group and when you travel.
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The Big Picture: What Does a Scotland Golf Trip Really Cost?
Going on a golf trip to Scotland is a dream for many. But knowing what you will pay is key. The total cost changes a lot based on your style of travel. Do you want to play every famous course? Or do you like finding hidden gems? Do you prefer fancy hotels or cozy guesthouses? All these choices add up.
Think about three main levels of spending:
- Budget-Friendly: This is for travelers who want to save money. You might choose cheaper flights, stay in guesthouses, and play less famous courses. You would likely drive yourself around. You might even cook some of your own meals. This type of trip can be done for around £2,000 – £3,500 per person. This is where affordable Scotland golf packages come into play if you book wisely.
- Mid-Range: Most golf trips fall into this group. You get a mix of well-known courses and some nice ones. You stay in good hotels or larger B&Bs. You might hire a rental car or use some private transport. Meals are a mix of nice restaurants and simpler places. For a 7 day Scotland golf itinerary budget at this level, expect to pay £3,500 – £6,000 per person. This is close to the average cost of a Scotland golf tour.
- Luxury: This is for those who want the best of everything. Think private drivers, staying at five-star resorts, playing only the most famous courses, and fine dining every night. For a true luxury Scotland golf trip, prices can be from £6,000 to over £10,000 per person, and sometimes much higher. This level offers a truly pampered experience.
No matter your budget, a trip to Scotland to play golf is special. The cost really depends on how you choose to spend your money on each part of the trip.
Breaking Down Your Scotland Golf Trip Expenses
To truly grasp the total cost, we need to look at each part. Your Scotland golf trip expenses breakdown shows where your money goes.
Green Fees: The Core of Your Golf Adventure
Green fees are often the largest part of your golf trip cost. Scotland has many golf courses. Some are very famous, and others are less known but still great. The price to play changes a lot based on the course’s fame and location.
- World-Famous Courses: Playing at places like St Andrews (Old Course), Carnoustie, or Muirfield is amazing. These courses are very expensive. For example, the St Andrews golf trip cost for just one round on the Old Course can be over £300 in peak season. Booking these courses can also be hard. You often need to enter a ballot (a draw) or book through a tour operator.
- Highly Regarded Courses: Courses like North Berwick, Kingsbarns, Royal Dornoch, and Turnberry are also top-tier. They are usually a bit less expensive than the absolute top courses but still costly. Expect to pay £150-£300 per round.
- Excellent Local Courses: Scotland has many wonderful courses that are not as famous. They offer great golf for a much lower price. These might be £50-£150 per round. You can find some fantastic golf without breaking the bank.
Here is a table showing example green fees Scotland 7 days for different types of courses during peak season (May-September):
| Course Type | Example Course | Peak Season Green Fee (per round) |
|---|---|---|
| World-Famous (Bucket List) | St Andrews Old Course | £270 – £350+ |
| Top Tier Links | Kingsbarns | £250 – £300 |
| Highly Regarded Links | North Berwick | £180 – £250 |
| Excellent Lesser-Known | Dunbar Golf Club | £100 – £180 |
| Good Local Courses | Crail Golfing Society | £70 – £120 |
| Very Good Inland Courses | Gleneagles (King’s) | £150 – £200 |
Over a 7-day trip, if you play 5-6 rounds, your green fees can quickly add up. For example:
* Budget: 5 rounds at £80-£120 each = £400 – £600
* Mid-Range: 5 rounds at £150-£250 each (mix of known and less known) = £750 – £1,250
* Luxury: 5 rounds at £250-£350+ each (all top courses) = £1,250 – £1,750+
Remember, prices can be lower in the shoulder seasons (April, October) or off-season (November-March).
Where to Stay: Scotland Golf Accommodation Cost
Your choice of place to sleep greatly impacts the total cost. Scotland golf accommodation cost varies widely.
- Budget (Guesthouses/B&Bs): These are cozy, locally-run places. They offer a comfortable stay and often include breakfast. They are a great way to meet local people. Prices can be £70 – £120 per night for a double room.
- Mid-Range (3-4 Star Hotels): These offer more services and modern comforts. You might find them in town centers or near golf courses. Prices range from £120 – £250 per night.
- Luxury (5 Star Hotels/Resorts): Scotland has many grand hotels and golf resorts. These offer top service, fine dining, spas, and often have their own golf courses. Think Gleneagles, Old Course Hotel, or Turnberry. Prices start from £300 and can go up to £1,000+ per night.
Staying outside the main tourist areas can also save you money. For a 7-day trip (6 nights), here’s what to expect:
| Accommodation Type | Example Place | Cost per Night (double room) | Total for 6 Nights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guesthouse/B&B (Budget) | Local B&B in a small town | £70 – £120 | £420 – £720 |
| 3-4 Star Hotel (Mid) | Best Western, Premier Inn | £120 – £250 | £720 – £1,500 |
| 5 Star Resort (Luxury) | Old Course Hotel | £300 – £1,000+ | £1,800 – £6,000+ |
Remember, prices can be higher in peak season and near famous golf courses. Booking well in advance is always smart.
Getting Around: Transportation for Scotland Golf Tours
How you move around Scotland affects your budget and your experience. Transportation for Scotland golf tours has a few main options.
- Rental Car (Self-Drive): This is the most popular choice for budget and mid-range trips. It gives you freedom. You can stop wherever you want. Prices for a mid-size car might be £300 – £500 for a week. Add fuel costs (Scotland’s fuel is expensive, often £1.60-£1.80 per liter) and possible parking fees. This can total £450 – £700 for the week. Make sure you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road!
- Private Driver/Chauffeur: This is a luxury choice. A private driver handles all the driving, luggage, and navigation. This is very relaxing, especially after a long flight or round of golf. It lets you enjoy the scenery and focus on golf. The cost for a week can be £2,500 – £5,000 or more, depending on the type of car and driver. This is a key part of luxury Scotland golf trip prices.
- Trains/Buses/Taxis: While possible, relying solely on public transport for a golf trip in Scotland can be tricky. Many courses are not near train stations. Taxis can be very costly for longer trips. This option is best if you plan to stay in one area and play local courses. Or if you use it for short hops.
Here’s an estimate for a 7-day trip:
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost for 7 Days | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Car (Mid-size) | £450 – £700 | Includes car hire, fuel, basic insurance |
| Private Driver/Chauffeur | £2,500 – £5,000+ | Includes driver, vehicle, fuel, tolls |
| Mix (Limited Public) | £200 – £400 | Taxi to/from airports, some local buses/trains |
When considering transportation for Scotland golf tours, remember to factor in airport transfers. These can add another £50-£150 each way if using taxis or dedicated services.
Food and Drink: Fueling Your Golf Journey
You need to eat and drink! This part of your budget is very flexible.
- Budget: You can buy groceries, make sandwiches, and eat at local pubs or takeaways. A good estimate is £40-£60 per person per day. Total: £280 – £420 for 7 days.
- Mid-Range: A mix of casual dining, some pub meals, and a few nicer dinners. You might have breakfast at your hotel. Expect £70-£100 per person per day. Total: £490 – £700 for 7 days.
- Luxury: Fine dining, meals at golf clubhouses, and enjoying high-end restaurants. This could be £120-£200+ per person per day. Total: £840 – £1,400+ for 7 days.
Don’t forget to factor in drinks, snacks, and perhaps a celebratory dram of whisky after a great round!
Other Costs: Bits and Bobs
Many small costs add up. These are often forgotten but are important in your Scotland golf trip expenses breakdown.
- Flights: Your flights to and from Scotland will be a big expense. These vary greatly by where you fly from and when you book. For example, flights from the USA to Scotland can range from £500 to £1,500+ round trip. From Europe, they might be £100-£400.
- Caddies: Many golf courses in Scotland, especially links courses, offer caddies. A caddy can greatly improve your round, helping with club choice and reading the greens. They are also great guides. A caddy typically costs £60-£100 per round, plus a tip of £20-£40. If you play 5 rounds with a caddy, this is an extra £400-£700.
- Golf Club Rental: If you don’t bring your own clubs, you can rent them. This usually costs £40-£70 per day or £200-£350 for the week.
- Travel Insurance: Always a good idea. Protects you against canceled flights, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Cost is usually £50-£150.
- Souvenirs/Shopping: Kilts, whisky, golf gear, or other gifts. This depends on you!
- Tips: For hotel staff, drivers, and restaurant servers.
- Sightseeing/Activities: If you plan to visit castles or distilleries on non-golf days.
- Visas (if needed): Most visitors from Western countries do not need a visa for short tourist stays, but check your country’s rules.
These “other” costs can easily add £500 – £1,500+ to your total.
Crafting Your 7-Day Scotland Golf Itinerary Budget
Let’s put all the pieces together for different budget levels. This helps show how a 7 day Scotland golf itinerary budget might look. These numbers are per person.
Budget-Friendly Itinerary (Example)
This plan focuses on value. You play great local courses, stay in cozy B&Bs, and drive yourself. This is ideal if you’re looking for affordable Scotland golf packages you can put together yourself.
- Total Green Fees: £400 – £600 (5 rounds at £80-£120 each)
- Accommodation: £420 – £720 (6 nights at £70-£120 per night)
- Transportation: £450 – £700 (rental car with fuel for 7 days)
- Food & Drink: £280 – £420 (eating at pubs, self-catering some meals)
- Other Costs: £500 – £1,000 (flights, minimal caddies, basic insurance, small spends)
- Total Estimated Cost (excluding flights): £2,050 – £3,440
- Total Estimated Cost (including budget flights): £2,550 – £4,440
| Day | Golf Course (Example) | Accommodation (Example) | Notes | Daily Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Edinburgh, settle in | Local B&B Edinburgh | Explore city, casual dinner | £150 |
| 2 | North Berwick West Links (early tee time) | Local B&B North Berwick | Drive to North Berwick, play golf | £300 |
| 3 | Crail Golfing Society (Balcomie) | B&B St Andrews area | Drive to Fife, play a historic course | £250 |
| 4 | Day off golf, explore St Andrews | B&B St Andrews area | Walk Old Course, visit castle | £100 |
| 5 | Ladybank Golf Club (inland gem) | B&B Perthshire area | Drive inland, enjoy a parkland course | £250 |
| 6 | Scotscraig Golf Club (links) | B&B near airport (Edinburgh) | Last round, drive towards airport | £250 |
| 7 | Depart from Edinburgh | N/A | Fly home | £50 |
| Total 7-Day Trip (excl. flights) | £1,350+ (plus rental car) |
This table only shows daily spend on accommodation, golf, and food. You need to add the one-off costs like rental car and flights.
Mid-Range Itinerary (Example)
This plan offers a balanced experience. You play a mix of famous and highly-rated courses, stay in comfortable hotels, and likely use a rental car. This falls around the average cost Scotland golf tour.
- Total Green Fees: £750 – £1,250 (5 rounds at £150-£250 each)
- Accommodation: £720 – £1,500 (6 nights at £120-£250 per night)
- Transportation: £450 – £700 (rental car with fuel for 7 days)
- Food & Drink: £490 – £700 (mix of casual and nice dinners)
- Other Costs: £800 – £1,500 (flights, 2-3 caddies, good insurance, some shopping)
- Total Estimated Cost (excluding flights): £3,210 – £5,650
- Total Estimated Cost (including mid-range flights): £3,810 – £7,150
| Day | Golf Course (Example) | Accommodation (Example) | Notes | Daily Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Edinburgh, check in | 4-star Hotel Edinburgh | Dinner in city, explore | £250 |
| 2 | Gullane No. 1 (East Lothian) | 4-star Hotel East Lothian | Drive to coast, quality links golf | £400 |
| 3 | Kingsbarns Golf Links (Fife) | 4-star Hotel St Andrews | Drive to Fife, world-class golf | £450 |
| 4 | St Andrews Old Course (Ballot attempt / Tour operator spot) | 4-star Hotel St Andrews | Attempt to play the Old Course, explore town | £400 |
| 5 | Carnoustie Golf Links (Angus) | 4-star Hotel Angus | Drive north, championship golf | £450 |
| 6 | Blairgowrie Rosemount (Perthshire) | 4-star Hotel near airport | Drive inland, beautiful parkland golf | £350 |
| 7 | Depart from Edinburgh | N/A | Fly home | £100 |
| Total 7-Day Trip (excl. flights) | £2,400+ (plus rental car) |
This table again shows daily spend. Remember to add the one-off costs like rental car and flights for the full picture.
Luxury Itinerary (Example)
This plan is for a truly grand experience. You play the most famous courses, stay in top resorts, and have a private driver. These are the luxury Scotland golf trip prices.
- Total Green Fees: £1,250 – £1,750+ (5 rounds at £250-£350+ each)
- Accommodation: £1,800 – £6,000+ (6 nights at £300-£1,000+ per night)
- Transportation: £2,500 – £5,000+ (private driver for 7 days)
- Food & Drink: £840 – £1,400+ (fine dining, high-end restaurants)
- Other Costs: £1,000 – £2,000+ (flights, caddies for all rounds, premium insurance, shopping, activities)
- Total Estimated Cost (excluding flights): £7,390 – £16,150+
- Total Estimated Cost (including luxury flights): £8,890 – £18,150+
| Day | Golf Course (Example) | Accommodation (Example) | Notes | Daily Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Edinburgh, private transfer | 5-star Hotel Edinburgh | Fine dining, relax | £800 |
| 2 | Muirfield Golf Club | The Marine North Berwick | Exclusive golf, private driver | £1,000 |
| 3 | Old Course, St Andrews (guaranteed tee time) | Old Course Hotel St Andrews | Iconic golf, caddies, luxury stay | £1,200 |
| 4 | Kingsbarns Golf Links | Old Course Hotel St Andrews | Another top course, explore St Andrews | £900 |
| 5 | Trump Turnberry (Ailsa Course) | Turnberry Resort | Iconic seaside course, resort amenities | £1,100 |
| 6 | Gleneagles (King’s or Queen’s Course) | Gleneagles Hotel | Inland luxury resort golf, spa | £1,000 |
| 7 | Depart from Edinburgh | N/A | Private transfer to airport | £500 |
| Total 7-Day Trip (excl. flights) | £6,500+ (plus private driver) |
Again, this table shows daily estimates for accommodation, golf, and food. You need to add the private driver cost and flights for the full picture. These figures are rough estimates. Actual costs can be higher or lower based on specific choices and market prices at the time of booking.
Ways to Save Money on Your Scotland Golf Trip
Even if you want a great trip, there are ways to cut costs.
- Travel in the Shoulder Season: Go in April, May, or October. Green fees and accommodation are often cheaper than in peak summer. The weather can still be great.
- Play Lesser-Known Courses: Scotland has hundreds of amazing golf courses that are not on the Open Championship rotation. They offer fantastic golf for a fraction of the price. Mix in one famous course with several local gems.
- Book Packages: Sometimes, booking a golf package through a tour operator can save you money. They often have better deals on green fees and hotels. Check what’s included to make sure it fits your Scotland golf vacation budget.
- Self-Cater: Stay in apartments or cottages with kitchens. Buy groceries and make some of your own meals. This cuts down on restaurant bills.
- Travel in a Group: Share costs like rental cars, private drivers, and multi-bedroom accommodations. This can significantly lower the per-person expense.
- Look for Deals: Some courses offer twilight rates or discounts for booking multiple rounds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Plan carefully to make your trip smooth and fun. Avoid these common errors:
- Not Booking Early Enough: Especially for famous courses like the Old Course at St Andrews, tee times sell out very fast. Hotels near popular golf areas also fill up. Book everything well in advance, often 6-12 months ahead.
- Underestimating Costs: Don’t forget about caddies, tips, club rentals, and food. These small costs add up. Use a detailed Scotland golf trip expenses breakdown to plan.
- Not Accounting for Weather: Scottish weather can change fast. Pack layers, rain gear, and waterproof shoes. Don’t let a little rain ruin your day.
- Over-Scheduling: Don’t try to play golf every single day at a different course far away. Allow travel time between courses and days to rest or see sights. A 7-day trip with 4-5 rounds of golf is a good balance.
- Ignoring Travel Insurance: Protect your investment. Travel insurance can cover flight delays, lost luggage, or unexpected medical issues.
Why Scotland is Worth It
Despite the costs, a golf trip to Scotland is an unforgettable experience. It’s the home of golf, with a rich history and unique courses you won’t find anywhere else. You walk in the footsteps of legends. The landscape is stunning. The people are friendly. Even on a budget, you can have an amazing time. It’s more than just a game; it’s a journey into the heart of golf’s heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best time of year for a Scotland golf trip?
A: The best time is typically May to September. This is when the weather is mildest, and days are longest. However, July and August are peak season, meaning higher prices and more crowds. April and October (shoulder season) offer lower prices and fewer people, but the weather can be more unpredictable.
Q: Do I need a caddy in Scotland?
A: You don’t have to hire a caddy, but it’s highly recommended, especially on true links courses. Caddies know the course well, can help with tricky shots, read greens, and share local stories. They add a lot to the experience. Budget for £60-£100 plus a £20-£40 tip per round if you want one.
Q: Can I bring my own golf clubs to Scotland?
A: Yes, most airlines allow you to bring your golf clubs as checked baggage. You’ll need a good travel bag to protect them. Check your airline’s specific rules and fees, as these can vary. Renting clubs in Scotland is also an option if you prefer not to travel with your own.
Q: Is it hard to get a tee time at St Andrews Old Course?
A: Yes, it can be very hard. Most tee times for the Old Course are allocated via a ballot (a daily draw). You enter two days before you want to play. You can also book guaranteed tee times through authorized tour operators, but these are often part of more expensive packages and must be booked far in advance.
Q: What is the weather like for golf in Scotland?
A: Scottish weather is famous for changing quickly. You can experience all four seasons in one day! Expect cool temperatures, wind, and rain, even in summer. Always pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and waterproof golf shoes. Sunshine is also possible and very welcome!
Q: Should I book my Scotland golf trip through a tour operator or do it myself?
A: Both options have pros and cons. Tour operators can secure sought-after tee times and handle all bookings, saving you time and stress. This is often part of an average cost Scotland golf tour or luxury Scotland golf trip prices. Doing it yourself might save money if you’re willing to put in the research and book everything separately. This is a good path for affordable Scotland golf packages. It depends on your budget, time, and how much planning you want to do.