How Much Does a Scotland Golf Trip Cost?

Key Price Factors for Scotland Golf Packages

Daniel Jones

January 3, 2025

6 Minute Read

If you’ve spent any amount of time scrolling the websites for golf travel companies, you've probably noticed a common feature: No prices.

Most companies will say that fluctuations in price within the travel industry make listing them online impossible. While there is some truth to that, the reality is that competition––not quickly evolving prices––is what really drives this lack of transparency.

In recent years, with travel inflation driving costs higher across the board, understanding the price of a Scotland golf trip has become even more critical. Perhaps that's sent you searching for an answer to the most common question related to planning Scotland golf trips...

How much does a Scotland golf trip cost?

By now, you’ve probably noticed there are no prices on our website either. That’s because Haversham & Baker is different from any other golf travel company.

We don’t have online pricing because we don’t have stock itineraries. Every trip we plan is 100% custom tailored to the unique desires and expectations of your group. Once we get to know you and your travel companions, only then does your itinerary and price start to take shape.

What we’ve learned over the past 30+ years is that most golfers in the early stages of planning aren’t looking for a specific price. Instead, they seek to understand all of the decisions and variables which will impact their final figure.

So what separates a $6,000 Scotland golf trip from the $12,000 variety?

What follows are some of the important factors which will influence the cost of your trip.

For additional insight, the topic of cost was covered in-detail on the Golf and the Good Life podcast. Tune-in below or wherever you get your podcasts.

When You Go: How Timing Impacts Your Scotland Golf Trip Cost

As with most types of travel, the timing of your Scotland golf trip can have a major impact on your overall cost. Understanding how the seasons and demand fluctuate can help you plan your trip to align with both your budget and your expectations.

The Golf Season in Scotland

The golf travel season from April to October is generally the best time to play golf in Scotland, with June through August considered the peak months. During this time, favorable weather and high demand for tee times drive up the cost of accommodations, green fees, and transportation. If your heart is set on playing marquee courses like those in St. Andrews, near Edinburgh, or on Scotland’s west coast, it’s essential to account for the higher costs during these months.

The Reality of the Shoulder Season

Traditionally, the shoulder months of April and October were seen as an opportunity to enjoy significant savings while still experiencing Scotland’s world-class golf. In recent years, however, demand has skyrocketed for golf in Scotland, even during these shoulder periods. Many travelers, particularly those looking to maximize their odds of securing an Old Course tee time via the ballot, are opting for the edges of the travel season.

While savings are still possible, particularly in less-traveled regions like The Highlands or Aberdeen, the shoulder seasons may no longer offer the dramatic cost reductions they once did. As outlined in the rest of this guide, other choices around your golf and accommodations may have a bigger impact on cost than the timing of your trip.

Other Timing Factors that Influence Cost

Beyond golf, other events and activities in Scotland can impact your trip’s overall cost. For example:

St. Andrews in early summer: The town is particularly busy during university graduation weeks, affecting both accommodations and availability.
Edinburgh in August: The city buzzes with visitors attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the International Festival, and the renowned Military Tattoo. These events can drive up costs significantly.

To optimize your Scotland golf trip cost, consider your priorities carefully. If playing the big name courses in peak conditions is a must, you’ll need to budget accordingly for the high season.

On the other hand, if you’re flexible and open to exploring regions outside the traditional hotspots, the shoulder months can still provide an excellent balance of savings and experience.

The members of Muirfield Village with the Claret Jug in The Home of Golf.

“I can’t imagine any way that it could have been better. Everything was first class, from our coach and driver, the golf courses, restaurant choices, hotel reservations were all spectacular. There were no shortcuts and no expenses spared. Even though the trip was expensive, all of the members felt like they got their money’s worth and glad we didn’t cut anything. To do a Scotland trip right, you need to go all out.”

Mark Bixler, PGA – Kirtland Country Club

Where You Play: Course Selection and the Cost of Your Scotland Golf Trip

The decision of where to play on your Scottish golf trip will significantly influence your overall cost. In recent years, rising demand has pushed green fees higher across the board, making it essential to plan your itinerary with a clear understanding of the realities.

The Price of Your Bucket List

Scotland’s iconic courses are among the best and most sought after rounds in the world, but their green fees reflect their global appeal. For example, numerous marquee courses boast green fees north of £300, and some clock in over £400.

While these experiences are worth every penny for most travelers, they represent a significant portion of your trip’s overall cost. If your itinerary is packed with bucket-list courses, the price will reflect it.

The Role of St. Andrews

As The Home of Golf, St. Andrews is both an iconic destination and a significant cost driver. The simple supply and demand for both guaranteed Old Course tee times and great accommodations means the inclusion of St. Andrews will impact your budget.

However, there are more cost-effective ways to play the Old Course, as outlined at the link above. Ultimately, it comes down to how vital playing The Old Course is to your satisfaction with the trip. If it's essential, then you need to budget accordingly for a guaranteed spot on the tee sheet.

Value Beyond the Headliners

Fortunately, Scotland offers an abundance of less-heralded golf courses that deliver exceptional value. Many of these courses feature green fees that, while still higher than in years past, are more accessible compared to their illustrious neighbors. In fact, rounds at courses like Crail, Elie, Brora, and Dunbar often turn out to be among the most memorable experiences for our travelers.

Balancing Value and the Experience

Striking the right balance between marquee courses and less-heralded spots can make all the difference in both your trip’s cost and its overall enjoyment. A well-rounded itinerary, tailored to your preferences and budget, ensures that you get the most out of your Scotland golf tour without compromising on quality.

The members of Ridgewood Country Club at Turnberry.

“This was an expensive trip, this trip was also well worth every penny. This was a no worries trip. An experience I will always remember.”

Jim Chambasian – August 2024

Where You Stay: The Biggest Driver of Your Total Price

Accommodations are often the single biggest piece of your overall cost of a golf trip to Scotland. The wide range of options available means there’s something to fit nearly every preference and budget, but understanding the choices and their implications is key to aligning your trip with your expectations.

From private cottages and boutique lodgings near the courses to award-winning landmark hotels in the heart of Edinburgh, the options are almost endless. With this variety, however, comes an equally wide range of pricing.

The Comfort You’ll Crave

Before embarking on your trip, it’s easy to downplay the importance of accommodations, thinking, “We’ll just be sleeping there.” But once you’re thousands of miles from home, surrounded by luggage, golf clubs, and the weariness of long travel days, you’ll quickly come to appreciate the value of great accommodations.

The comfort of a thoughtfully chosen room can make all the difference in your ability to relax and recharge, ensuring you’re ready for the next day on the course. It’s important to be honest with yourself about your needs and priorities and thread the needle between savings and comfort.

Rooms with a View

For those seeking an elevated experience, rooms with a view can be a spectacular addition to your trip. Imagine starting your morning enjoying the sunrise with a cup of coffee on your private balcony overlooking The Old Course. Moments like these can transform your stay into something truly special. Just know that incredible view may cost more than your rounds in St. Andrews.

Room Categories and Cost

Room categories play a significant role in determining both the price of your stay and the quality of your experience. While a smaller room with an attractive price point might look appealing on paper, it could lack the space or functionality necessary for a comfortable trip, particularly if you’re sharing the room with a travel companion. Conversely, some upgraded room types might carry a steep premium but offer little in return due to awkward layouts or unnecessary features.

Your H&B Expedition Planning Manager brings a wealth of insight to this decision. Our first-hand experience with the accommodations and room categories will help you avoid potential pitfalls, ensuring that the accommodations you choose are both practical and enjoyable for your group. Whether it’s recommending a spacious room for two golfers or advising against an overpriced suite with minimal added value, their guidance ensures you get the most out of your stay.

The members of Palos Verdes Country Club enjoy the Good Life at Gleneagles.

“I thought the accommodations were top notch - all four hotels were tremendous and really made the trip that much more special. You all did an amazing job - I'm hard pressed to think this could have gone any better!”

Tom Wagner – Wanumetonomy Golf & Country Club

Single vs Double Occupancy – Balancing Comfort and Cost

Deciding between single and double occupancy accommodations is one of the most impactful choices you’ll make for your Scotland golf trip. It’s a decision that influences not only the cost of your journey but also the comfort and dynamic of your group along the way.

The Cost of Privacy

Most Scotland golf tours are priced based on double occupancy. Choosing to have your own room will typically add about 50% to the lodging portion of your trip — a substantial increase that, over the course of a week, can add up quickly. For those who value privacy, this added expense may be worth it, but it’s important to weigh how it fits into your overall budget and priorities.

A Flexible Middle Ground

For some groups, single vs. double occupancy doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. Across Scotland, there are accommodations that offer multi-bedroom setups combining private bedrooms and en suite bathrooms with shared living spaces. These options provide a thoughtful middle ground: the privacy of your own retreat when you need it and the camaraderie of shared spaces for gathering with your group. What’s more, these setups often fall between the cost of single and double occupancy, offering comfort and value in equal measure.

Consider Your Group Dynamic

When making this decision, it’s essential to consider the dynamic of your group and your personal travel preferences. Some groups thrive in a shared setting, with rooming arrangements that feel natural and effortless. Others, after a few days of travel and long rounds on the course, might find themselves craving personal space. It’s not just about where you’ll sleep — it’s about how the lodging contributes to everyone’s overall experience, comfort, and sense of enjoyment throughout the trip.

The members of Kalamazoo Country Club at Muirfield.

“After repeated expeditions, your company gets it right from start to finish. Your personnel are second to none. Can others provide a cheaper service? Yes. Is it worth the risk? Absolutely not. The peace of mind, knowing you’re not going to have any problems that are in your control, is worth it.”

Bobby Krugman – Royal Melbourne Country Club

How You Get Around: An Overlooked Key to Your Experience

When planning a Scotland golf trip, transportation is often an overlooked part of the process, but it’s a decision that can have an outsized impact on both your budget and overall experience. In fact, it may influence your trip more than any other component — even the golf itself.

For most travelers, the choice comes down to self-driving versus hiring an H&B Driver-Host. While the additional cost of a Driver-Host may give some pause, the value provided is often worth every penny.

The True Value of a Driver-Host

The majority of our travelers opt for an H&B Driver-Host, and with good reason. The benefits of hiring a Driver-Host stretch far beyond transporting you from Point A to Point B, they your trip in ways that go far beyond convenience. Their local knowledge, ability to adapt to your group’s needs, and expertise in navigating Scotland’s winding roads ensure a seamless, stress-free journey.

But when weighing costs and proposals from golf travel companies, it’s important to note that the term "driver" can mean different things. For H&B travelers, a Driver-Host means essentially having a dedicated concierge for the duration of your trip. This is someone who not only gets you from course to course but also ensures every detail of your journey is tailored to your needs. Whether it’s adjusting the itinerary, recommending local treasures, or adding a touch of humor to your experience, a Driver-Host is an integral part of your adventure.

By contrast, some travel providers define “driver” as someone who handles point-to-point transfers, often with a different person each day. While this may come with a lower cost, it’s a very different experience — one that lacks the continuity, personalized service, and connection that H&B travelers value in their Driver-Host.

Over the course of your trip, many Driver-Hosts become more than just guides — they feel like an extra member of the group. Their warmth, hospitality, and genuine care often turn into lifelong friendships, leaving travelers with fond memories of not just the golf, but the person who helped make it all possible.

Group Size and Cost Considerations

The size of your group plays a major role in determining the cost difference between self-driving and hiring a Driver-Host. For smaller groups of two or three, self-driving may seem more cost-effective, and in some cases, it might make sense. However, as group sizes grow, the cost difference becomes less significant.

By the time you reach eight travelers, the gap is so minimal that our groups almost universally choose to have a Driver-Host. At this size, the added value of having a local expert behind the wheel far outweighs any savings from self-driving.

Weighing the Options

Of course, a Driver-Host may not be in the cards or make sense for every group. For smaller groups, or those seeking the freedom to explore Scotland at their own pace, the cost premium of having a driver may outweigh the benefits. Plus, the ability to detour to a charming village or simply follow your whims brings its own sense of adventure, discovery, and value.

When deciding how to get around, it’s important to consider your group’s dynamic, size, destination, and overall goals for the trip. For larger groups, the choice is often clear: the cost difference for a Driver-Host is minimal, and the added value is undeniable. But regardless of your choice, the key is selecting the option that best complements your vision for the journey and ensures the most enjoyable experience possible.

Guide to Scotland golf trip cost considerations

An H&B Driver-Host awaits his group on a glorious evening at Prestwick Golf Club.

“Our driver was outstanding! He far exceeded the expectations we had before we departed. He was an amazing tour guide, a regular member of the group walking the courses with us, and in total command of the logistics. He absolutely made the trip. Cannot underestimate the value and importance of a great driver to make the excursion a success.”

Mike Arata – August 2024

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond the key items above, here are a few additional factors to keep in mind for the cost of your Scotland trip:

Caddies: If you plan on taking caddies during your trip––and you absolutely should––approximately £100-£120 per bag is a good guideline to add to your budget.
Airfare: Naturally, airfare will constitute a large portion of your overall cost. Plan early and don’t forget this important factor when considering When You Go above.
Book Early: When you book your trip can have a significant impact on its final cost. The longer you wait to begin the planning process, the more it is likely to cost you.

Price vs Value: Investing in Memories That Last a Lifetime

Every decision you make while planning your Scotland golf trip — from accommodations and transportation to courses played and the season of travel — will impact the overall cost of your journey. The key is to weigh each of these considerations through the lens of cost versus value.

The reality is that the price will fade from memory, but the experiences and moments you create along the way will stay with you forever. Whether it’s sipping your morning coffee while overlooking The Old Course, the thrill of finally crossing a bucket-list course off your list, or the laughter and camaraderie shared with your Driver-Host, these experiences carry a cost — but their value to your trip is immeasurable.

The most important step is identifying what matters most to you and your group. What elements of the trip are essential to creating those unforgettable moments? What areas can be adjusted to fit your priorities and perhaps capture some savings? By focusing on what truly enhances your experience, you can ensure that every decision brings meaningful value to your journey.

It’s also essential to partner with a company that’s willing to invest the time and has the expertise required to craft your journey around your precise desires and goals. Many travel companies rely on prepackaged itineraries, offering little flexibility to customize the experience to what truly matters to you.

At H&B, we believe every golf trip should be as unique as the golfers who take it. Our Expedition Planning Managers work closely with you to tailor each choice — from accommodations to tee times — to your goals and expectations. This approach ensures that every penny spent is an investment in what's important to you and the memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

As Benjamin Franklin once said, “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” The same can be said of your golf trip. By focusing on what’s truly valuable — the moments, the experiences, and the memories — you’ll find that the investment is always worth it.