Milngavie Golf Club

Overview: Milngavie Golf Club sits on high ground at Laighpark, on the edge of Mugdock Country Park and beside the start of the West Highland Way. The moorland course runs over undulating former grazing land, with tree-lined fairways opening to views of Glasgow, the Campsie Fells and, on clear days, Ben Lomond. From the back tees it measures a little over 6,000 yards to a par of 70, and the moorland lies and wind make it play firmer than that. The ground remains open enough for long views, but the moorland roll means the ball often finishes above or below the player’s feet.

History: The club was established in 1895 and the original layout was mapped out in a single day by the St Andrews brothers Willie and Laurie Auchterlonie. The members had planned for nine holes, but the brothers saw enough in the ground to recommend a full eighteen, and the club took that advice. Later changes to the course have been associated with James Braid.

Did You Know? Both designers became champions: Willie Auchterlonie won the Open in 1893, two years before staking out Milngavie, and his brother Laurie won the U.S. Open in 1902.