Bill Gates and Paula Hurd at a nearby farm after a visit to Dornoch.
Billionaire software pioneer and philanthropist Bill Gates was spotted enjoying a short break in Dornoch last week.
The Microsoft co-founder and partner Paula Hurd “made the day” of several golfers as they took the time to pose for photos at Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
An on-looker said: “Bill and Paula Hurd enjoyed walking the course and seeing the town. In fact, they surprised and kindly greeted some players on the glorious 7th tee. It made their day.”
It is understood they dined at Links House and later enjoyed a whisky tasting at Carnegie Whisky Cellars.
Bill Gates on the course greeting players at Royal Dornoch.
Having made his fortune after co-founding Microsoft in 1975, Mr Gates stepped back from business to focus on philanthropy.
According to Forbes, as of May 2025, his net worth stood at US$115.1 billion, making him the 13th richest individual in the world.
Earlier this year, he pledged to give away the bulk of his wealth through the Gates Foundation by 2045, with a major focus on health and education in Africa.
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