Orkney Golf Courses: Links Challenges with Stunning Views

For golfers seeking a unique challenge amidst breathtaking scenery, Orkney offers an unforgettable experience. The islands boast several characterful links courses where the ever-present wind, natural contours, and stunning coastal backdrops provide a true test of skill and strategy. Forget manicured parkland courses; Orkney golf is about embracing the elements and enjoying the game in its rawest form, often with views stretching across historic landscapes and dramatic seascapes. This guide explores Orkney's main golf courses, offering insights into their features, challenges, and visitor information.

An Overview of Golf in Orkney

Golf in Orkney is predominantly links golf, played on firm, sandy turf shaped by nature and the wind. The courses often feature:

• Natural Contours: Undulating fairways, natural dunes, and pot bunkers demand creative shot-making.
• Wind Factor: The Orkney wind is a constant companion and the courses' primary defence. Expect to adjust club selection significantly (often 2-3 clubs difference) and master low, penetrating shots.
• Scenic Views: Courses are typically situated with stunning backdrops, whether overlooking Kirkwall Bay, the Hoy Sound, or dramatic coastlines.
• Gorse: Thick, prickly gorse bushes line many fairways, ready to punish errant shots.

While the courses may not be long by modern standards, the wind ensures they play much tougher, offering a rewarding challenge for golfers of all levels prepared to adapt their game.

Orkney Golf Club, Kirkwall

Located just outside Kirkwall, Orkney Golf Club is the islands' premier 18-hole course, offering panoramic views towards Kirkwall Bay and the North Isles.

• Course Details: Par 70, measuring 5,407 yards from the white tees (can stretch to 5,575 yards in summer).
• Challenges: Known for its tight layout where accuracy is paramount. Out-of-bounds features on 10 holes, and thick gorse demands precision off the tee. The wind sweeping across the relatively exposed course adds significant difficulty. Recent upgrades have introduced more challenging green complexes on holes 1 and 3.
• Facilities: Modern clubhouse with changing rooms, bar, and catering. Pro shop offering club (£20) and trolley (£5) hire. Short game practice area available.
• Visitor Information: Green fees are around £50 for visitors (£40 for Orkney residents, £25 in winter). Visitors generally need to be members of a recognised golf club. Booking tee times in advance is recommended, especially during summer weekends or competitions. (Visit Website)

Stromness Golf Club

Situated on the edge of the historic harbour town of Stromness, this course offers arguably the most spectacular views in Orkney golf, looking out over Hoy Sound towards the dramatic hills of Hoy.

• Course Details: Par 65, measuring 4,804 yards. A shorter course featuring 11 par-4s and 7 challenging par-3s, demanding accuracy over length.
• Unique Features: The course winds over hilly terrain with stunning sea views from almost every hole. The signature 10th 'Battery Hole' plays over WWII gun emplacements. Recent upgrades have added strategic bunkering.
• Facilities: Welcoming clubhouse with bar, restaurant, and sea views. Club hire available.
• Visitor Information: Very visitor-friendly with affordable green fees (around £20 per day, including club hire if needed). Online tee booking available via their website. (Visit Website)

South Ronaldsay Golf Club

Located near St Margaret's Hope on the island of South Ronaldsay (accessible via the Churchill Barriers), this course offers a different challenge.

• Course Details: A 9-hole course with 18 different tee positions, allowing for an 18-hole round. Known locally as potentially the most challenging course due to its exposure to the elements.
• Features: Offers scenic views and a traditional links experience.
• Visitor Information: Welcomes visitors; specific green fees and booking details best obtained locally or via online golf directories.

Other Orkney Golfing Options

• Westray Golf Club: A 9-hole course on the island of Westray, famous for boasting the UK's longest hole – the 738-yard, par-6 3rd hole! Offers a unique island golfing experience near Noltland Castle.
• Practice Facilities: Orkney Golf Club and Stromness Golf Club have basic short-game practice areas, but there are no dedicated driving ranges in Orkney.

Playing Conditions and Tips

• Best Time to Play: May to September offers the longest daylight hours and generally milder weather, though wind is always a factor. Winter golf is possible but expect challenging conditions.
• Wind Strategy: Learn to play low, controlled shots ('punch' shots). Factor in 2-3 clubs difference depending on wind strength and direction. Embrace the challenge!
• Links Play: Understand how the ball bounces and rolls on firm links turf. Use the ground contours to your advantage.
• Attire & Etiquette: Smart casual golf attire is expected (no jeans). Standard golf etiquette applies – repair pitch marks, rake bunkers, replace divots, and maintain a good pace of play.
• Gear: Waterproofs are essential year-round. Spiked golf shoes provide better grip on potentially damp turf.

To find relevant videos, search YouTube for "Orkney Golf Club review" or "Stromness Golf Club flyover".

Frequently Asked Questions

How many golf courses are in Orkney?

There are four main courses: Orkney Golf Club (Kirkwall, 18 holes), Stromness Golf Club (18 holes), South Ronaldsay Golf Club (9 holes/18 tees), and Westray Golf Club (9 holes).

Do I need an official handicap to play?

Orkney Golf Club generally requires visitors to be members of a recognised club, implying a handicap may be needed for certain competitions but perhaps not casual play (check directly). Stromness and South Ronaldsay are typically more relaxed for visitor play.

Can I hire golf clubs?

Yes, both Orkney Golf Club and Stromness Golf Club offer club hire.

Is Orkney golf expensive?

Compared to many famous Scottish links courses, Orkney offers excellent value. Green fees are generally very reasonable, especially at Stromness and South Ronaldsay.

Playing golf in Orkney is about more than just the score; it's about experiencing the game in a raw, natural, and historically rich environment. Whether battling the wind at Kirkwall or soaking in the views at Stromness, Orkney provides a memorable round for any golfer willing to embrace the challenge. Find convenient accommodation in Kirkwall or Stromness to access the main courses easily.