Our esteemed panel, after meticulously reviewing Scotland’s premier golf courses for the NCG Top 100s: Scotland list, pondered a crucial question: which final hole truly leaves golfers yearning for another round?
Every golfer aspires to conclude their round memorably, and sinking a birdie on a thrilling final hole undoubtedly ranks among the most satisfying achievements.
But what defines an exceptional finishing hole? Is it the captivating risk-reward dynamics of a short par 4, the enticing prospect of reaching a par 5 in two shots, or perhaps the historical significance that lends it legendary status?
Our panellists weighed in, with several courses earning multiple mentions. So, which Scottish finishing hole earned the ultimate acclaim from our experts?
The Panel’s Verdict: Scotland’s Top Finishing Holes
It’s almost impossible to overlook the revered ‘Home of Golf’! The 18th at the Old Course, with its iconic Swilcan Bridge attracting countless visitors and golfers, and the ever-present out-of-bounds on the right, is a hole every golfer dreams of playing.
Michael Verity: Michael Verity praises the Old Course’s final hole, noting its universal appeal to golfers of all skill levels and its profound significance as a hallowed site in golf.
Phil Bedford: Phil Bedford simply names the Old Course.
Craig Morrison: Craig Morrison highlights the Old Course’s 18th as the quintessential example of Scottish holes that blend back into their towns, calling it “the shortest, sweetest, most important of them all.”
Paul Watson: Paul Watson admires the Old Course’s 18th for its unparalleled vista, ample space to the left, yet the persistent threat of out-of-bounds to the right.
Ian Woods: Ian Woods acknowledges that St. Andrews’ 18th may not be the most challenging technically, but its unique drama comes from the multitude of spectators witnessing every shot, whether it leads to triumph or blunder.
Michael Atkinson: Michael Atkinson describes the Old Course’s 18th as an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legends, highlighting the allure of driving the green and the potential for public drama with many eyes watching.
The closing holes at Muirfield and Moray also garnered significant praise…
Peter Rudd: Peter Rudd describes Muirfield’s 18th as a strategically bunkered and demanding finisher, famous for hosting numerous dramatic moments.
Dove Jones: Dove Jones also selected Muirfield’s 18th.
Jim Marshall: Jim Marshall simply calls Muirfield’s 18th “Magical.”
Stu Bennett: Stu Bennett highlights Moray Old’s 18th, noting its challenging tee shot followed by an uphill approach to a large, elevated green, often played under the watchful eyes of clubhouse members.
Oliver Baker: Oliver Baker also favoured Moray Old.
Steve Watton: Steve Watton joins in, choosing Moray Old.
Greg Webber: Greg Webber points out that Moray Old’s 18th green is elevated and nestled within an amphitheater-like setting, intensifying the drama of the final approach.
Several other Scottish courses were also commended for their enthralling final holes.
David Fox: David Fox praises Castle Stuart’s 18th, a dramatic downhill par 5 offering views of the Moray Firth, framed by an impressive clubhouse and strategically placed bunkers.
Jim Banting: Jim Banting selects North Berwick, noting that “any score is possible” on its final hole.
Chris Myatt: Chris Myatt finds Skibo Castle’s closing hole “absolutely stunning,” tempting golfers with bold tee shots and aggressive second approaches.
Hugh Masson: Hugh Masson also champions Castle Stuart’s 18th.
Charles Abraham: Charles Abraham nominates Carnoustie’s 18th.
Ed Battye: Ed Battye describes Durness’s unique finisher: a mid-iron shot over a perilous, rocky inlet to a green perched precariously close to the cliff edge.
David Elliott: David Elliott, having played several dozen Scottish courses, names Loch Lomond’s closing hole as his personal favourite, describing it as a “risk and reward drive” with a challenging green and “enjoyable terror.”
Chris Griffiths: Chris Griffiths expresses his affection for North Berwick’s 18th, simply stating, “Loved it!”
David Walkr: David Walker believes closing holes should deliver drama, and Leven’s 460-yard hole, featuring a broad burn to cross, certainly achieves this.
Neil White: Neil White identifies Trump International as having “one of the most challenging” finishing holes he can recall.
Andi White: Andi White describes Dumbarnie’s 18th as a dogleg par four concluding in front of the clubhouse, featuring an elevated green that requires a precise, high shot to prevent the ball from rolling back.
Lewis Marr: Lewis Marr also points to the Carnoustie Championship course.
