Stonehaven Golf Club
Stonehaven Golf Club | Aberdeenshire
Perched high above the North Sea, Stonehaven Golf Club offers one of Scotland’s most breathtaking coastal settings. Though just over 5,000 yards and playing to a par of 64, this cliff-top gem is not about championship pedigree—it’s about sheer enjoyment, scenery, and a warm welcome from the local community. With seven par 3s, dramatic elevation changes, and views that rival Pebble Beach, Stonehaven delivers a round you’ll never forget.
Signature moments include the par-3 15th, Gully Cup, which requires a heroic carry across a deep chasm from a tee beside the ruins of the original clubhouse. The course may be short, but it still tests precision and creativity, making it both fun and memorable for golfers of every skill level.
Cypress & Salt recommends Stonehaven as a refreshing addition to a northeast Scotland itinerary. Paired with rounds at Royal Aberdeen or Cruden Bay, plus luxury lodging and curated excursions, it offers a chance to slow down, savor the views, and experience authentic Scottish golf in a setting that feels both intimate and extraordinary.
Course Stats
Par: 64
Yardage: 5,103 yards (medal tees)
Course Rating: 65.5
Slope Rating: 113
Designer: Founded 1888; current layout evolved through the early 1900s
Type: Cliff-top parkland/links hybrid
Signature Holes:
15th (Gully Cup): Iconic par 3 requiring a full carry over a deep gully, with the ruins of the old clubhouse as backdrop.
2nd & 3rd: Short but dramatic cliff-edge holes with sweeping North Sea views.
Final stretch: Elevated closing holes overlooking Stonehaven Harbour and the rugged coast.
Season / Best Months to Play
Overall, Scotland is a year-round golf destination, but conditions vary dramatically:
May – September: Ideal weather and longer daylight for maximum enjoyment of cliffside vistas.
June – August: Warmest months with the North Sea at its most photogenic.
September: Still mild and less crowded, offering a peaceful, highly memorable round.
