In 1953 the Lanarkshire Golf Association was formed, today, more than 30 clubs play over 28 courses in the area. The region has produced many ameteur golfing champion such as John S. Montgomerie, Craig Everett and Graham Rankin.
Lanarkshire is home to Lanark Golf Club, the 25th oldest course in the world - which few golfers will have played. This remarkable course, located just 15 miles outside of Glasgow, is sited 600 feet above sea level and the ground is sandy and links-like due to the Ice Age Glacial Sands. Lanark is a strong contender for the finest moorland course on offer in Scotland.
Strathaven Golf Course is a challenge for the average golfer with an overall yardage of 6,306 and a par of 71. Low scores will only happen at Strathaven if skill and judgement are used on the tree-lined holes. If par eludes the golfer and it’s not a successful day for a low score, there is still the stunning views of the surrounding Kype Hill to compensate for this.
Killing two birds with one stone is a trip to one of Lanarkshire’s most interesting and impressive historical sites, Bothwell Castle. Built in the 13th century, this medieval castle is sited on a steep bank above a bend in the River Clyde. The castle played a key role in Scotland’s Wars of Independence and changed hands several times.
Following a tour of the castle, a game of golf on Bothwell Golf Course is in order. Situated in mature woodland in the grounds of the castle’s estate, this parkland course, founded in 1922, has been extensively upgraded over the last 50 years.
The course measures as 6,224 yards with par set at 70 and is laid out on relatively level terrain, with tree-lined fairways providing a quality parkland game of golf for members and visitors alike. The signature hole is regarded as the 159th-yard 8th, where an intimidating burn runs acros the front of a sand-protected green.
