Royal Aberdeen is one of Scotland's proper heavyweights, a classic links that many golfers put right up there with the very best. Founded in 1780 as the Society of Golfers at Aberdeen, it's recognised as one of the earliest golf clubs ever created, sitting around 6th to 8th on most historical lists depending on the records used.
What you get on the ground is traditional links golf in the purest sense. Expect firm, springy turf, sea air in the lungs and the kind of wind that can make you feel like you've hit two extra clubs, or two fewer. It's a strategic test rather than a "bash it and find it" course, with well-placed bunkering and plenty of holes that ask you to shape the ball and keep it under control. The routing has that classic out-and-back feel, with dunes framing the fairways and pot bunkers sitting exactly where you don't want them when the wind swirls.
Royal Aberdeen's tournament history is a big part of the story too, especially in amateur golf, with Scottish and international championships hosted here over the years. More recently this classic links layout staged the Senior Open Championship, where Tom Watson, one of the all-time great links players, took the title. It's also welcomed the Scottish Open, won by Justin Rose. In other words, it's the real deal, and it doesn't flatter you when the wind gets up.
If you're planning a trip, this corner of the north-east is packed with quality. You're within easy reach of Cruden Bay and Trump International Golf Links, which means you can put together a brilliant three-course links run without spending half your holiday in the car. All three regularly feature in Top 100 rankings, so you're ticking off serious bucket-list golf in a very compact area.
Who is this for?
Golfers seeking an authentic Scottish links experience on a course steeped in history, with the opportunity to play multiple world-class layouts in a single trip. Ideal for groups, societies and individuals who want to tick off championship venues that have tested the game's best players.
Who is it best for?
Golfers who enjoy a proper links test, especially if you're comfortable flighting the ball in the wind and taking your medicine when you miss the fairway. Confident mid-handicappers will love it, and low-handicappers will relish it. Also suits golf historians and purists who appreciate playing one of the oldest clubs in the world, where the game's heritage is woven into every hole.
