The Nairn Golf Club

The Nairn Golf Club was founded in 1887, and the original layout was laid out by Andrew Simpson with input from Old Tom Morris. James Braid revised the routing in the 1920s. The course is a genuine links — the first nine play out along the Moray Firth shoreline, the second return through gorse and rolling dune land. Hosted the 1999 Walker Cup, the 2012 Curtis Cup, and various Scottish Amateur events.

What sets Nairn apart from the better-known links north of Inverness is the firmness of the playing surface and the consistency of the wind. The course drains exceptionally well even in winter; the fairways play hard and fast for most of the year. The 5th, played along the shore with the firth in view from the tee, is the photographed hole. The 14th and 16th are the others regulars cite.

Visitor green fee is £185 in 2026. Booking via nairngolfclub.co.uk up to 12 months ahead. Caddies available and worth taking on a first visit. The club's sister course, Nairn Dunbar (£75), is a separate club a mile east with its own genuine links character — pair the two for a Moray Firth golfing day at around £260 total. For visitors based in Inverness, Nairn is the most accessible of the great Highland links.