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Royal Dornoch Championship Course golf course in Highlands - links with Ranked among the top courses in the world, Royal Dornoch combines stunning Highl...
Championship Course

Royal Dornoch Championship Course

Dornoch, Sutherland

linksHighlandsChampionshipFrom £200
About This Course

Ranked among the top courses in the world, Royal Dornoch combines stunning Highland scenery with challenging links golf. The course has remained largely unchanged since the 1880s and offers an authentic Scottish golf experience.

History & Heritage

Royal Dornoch Golf Club, established in 1877, is one of Scotland's hidden treasures. The course may date back to 1616, making it one of the oldest in the world. Old Tom Morris laid out the original 18 holes in 1886, with later modifications by John Sutherland and Donald Ross, who learned his craft here before designing courses in America. The "Royal" prefix was granted in 1906 by King Edward VII. Ben Crenshaw called it "the most fun I have ever had on a golf course." Its remote location has kept it off the major championship rotation, but it consistently ranks in the world's top 20.

Architect

Old Tom Morris, John Sutherland, Donald Ross

Established

1877

Notable Events
Major tournaments and championships hosted at this course
  • across the world’s most northerly championship links for over four centuries
Signature Holes

The 14th hole, "Foxy," is often called the greatest par 4 in golf - an elevated tee with stunning views requires a precise drive followed by a demanding approach to a plateau green. The 5th "Hilton" is a challenging par 3 with deep bunkers protecting a raised green. The 2nd "Ord" features the course's highest point with panoramic coastal views. The closing holes along Embo Bay provide a thrilling finish with spectacular scenery.

Best Time to Visit
Optimal playing conditions and seasonal information

Recommended Months

MayJuneJulyAugustSeptember

Course Conditions

Maintained to traditional links standards with firm, fast-running fairways. Summer offers the best conditions with long daylight hours. The fescue rough can be penal. Greens are typically quick and true. Weather can change rapidly - bring layers. The Highlands location means cooler temperatures than southern Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Royal Dornoch Championship Course
What type of golf course is Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

Royal Dornoch Championship Course is a links located in Highlands. Ranked among the top courses in the world, Royal Dornoch combines stunning Highland scenery with challenging links golf. The course has remained large...

Where is Royal Dornoch Championship Course located?

Royal Dornoch Championship Course is located in Dornoch, Sutherland. It's situated in the Highlands region of Scotland.

What is the history of Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

Royal Dornoch Golf Club, established in 1877, is one of Scotland's hidden treasures. The course may date back to 1616, making it one of the oldest in the world. Old Tom Morris laid out the original 18...

What are the course specifications at Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

Royal Dornoch Championship Course is a par 70 course measuring 6,514 yards. The course provides an excellent test of golf for players of all abilities.

How can I book a tee time at Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

To book a tee time at Royal Dornoch Championship Course, visit their official website at https://royaldornoch.com/ or contact the course directly at +44 1862 810219. You can also reach them via email at bookings@royaldornoch.com.

What is the best time to visit Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

The best time to visit Royal Dornoch Championship Course is during May, June, July, August, September. Maintained to traditional links standards with firm, fast-running fairways. Summer offers the best conditions with long daylight hours. The fescue rough can be penal. Greens are typically quick and true. Weather can change rapidly - bring layers. The Highlands location means cooler temperatures than southern Scotland.

What are the signature holes at Royal Dornoch Championship Course?

The 14th hole, "Foxy," is often called the greatest par 4 in golf - an elevated tee with stunning views requires a precise drive followed by a demanding approach to a plateau green. The 5th "Hilton" i...

Course Statistics

Par

70

Length

6,514

yards

0
Facilities & Amenities
Available services and amenities at this course
Hole-by-Hole Guide
Detailed breakdown of each hole

Hole 2

"Ord"
Par 4177 yardsSI 7

From the highest point on the course, this short par 4 offers stunning views of the Dornoch Firth. The approach is downhill to a well-protected green.

Hole 5

"Hilton"
Par 3354 yardsSI 17

A challenging par 3 with a raised plateau green protected by deep bunkers. Named after Harold Hilton, twice Open champion.

Hole 6

"Whinny Brae"
Par 4163 yardsSI 1

Regarded by many as Dornoch's toughest hole. A long par 4 with a blind drive over a ridge and a demanding approach.

Hole 8

"Dunrobin"
Par 4437 yardsSI 3

A magnificent hole with views of Dunrobin Castle in the distance. The fairway narrows at the landing area.

Hole 14

"Foxy"
Par 4445 yardsSI 5

Often called the best par 4 in golf. Elevated tee with stunning coastal views. Dogleg right with bunkers guarding the corner. Approach to a plateau green.

Green Fees
Pricing information for visitors

peak Season

Any day

Single Round. 2 Round Ticket: £575. Combination Ticket (one round on each course): £420. Twilight times: May-July 6.00pm, August 5.30pm

£360

Twilight: £215

winter Season

Any day

Single Round. 2 Round Ticket: £320. Combination Ticket (one round on each course): £243. Twilight not available in winter.

£200

Contact Information
Location

Dornoch, Sutherland

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