Torwoodlee Golf Club

Overview: Torwoodlee Golf Club lies just north of Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, laid out within the policies of the old Torwoodlee Estate. The lower holes follow the banks of the Gala Water near the clubhouse, while the later ones climb into hillier, wooded ground with wider views across the Borders. Par is 69 over roughly 6,000 yards, with five short holes and a shared green serving the 8th and 13th. The shared green on the 8th and 13th is another compact use of the site, serving two holes from distinct directions.

History: Golfers in Galashiels established Torwoodlee in 1895 on the policies of the old estate, and Willie Park Jr. laid out the first course. More than 100 members joined in its opening season. Later, the holes were extended across the former Waverley railway corridor as higher ground became available, producing the current eighteen-hole route.

Did You Know? The Waverley line that once split the course closed in 1969, and its route through the Gala valley was later revived as the Borders Railway, so trains again run past ground the golfers know well.