To a non-golfer, it may seem that one course is much like another: they have 9 or 18 holes of varying lengths, which start from the tee, continue with a fairway surrounded by trees, shrubs and other obstacles such as water traps, then arrive at the green, with yet more nasty hindrances such as sand bunkers surrounding the little flag marking a small hole. However, to a golfer, or golf course designer, there is a world of difference between various courses and holes on courses.

Scotland is famous for its well designed courses. A good course must not only be aesthetically pleasing, but playable and yet still challenging to golfers at different skill levels. It must have enough variation to keep the player guessing and provide challenges that will keep him or her coming back for more.

The course should also complement the natural surroundings and landscape on which it has been constructed, with fairways following the natural contours of the land, and tees and greens situated to make use of the various changes in elevation.

There are also logistical considerations which make a course user friendly. Considerations of ease of use should start from the time the player arrives in the car park until sitting in the club house dissecting the day’s play over a well earned drink.

Further, there are many technical issues of construction and ground keeping which must be addressed in the design and installation of a good course. Not only should features such as natural rock, mature trees and watercourses be highlighted, but man made installations must be well built, and the all important issue of adequate drainage considered.

Golf courses now exist in nearly every country in the world, yet some of the original Scottish courses still retain their fame and influence on modern design.