Scotland is the home of golf and with over 550 courses dotted throughout the country and, when you consider that many of them are among the finest and most celebrated on the planet, it’s easy to see why.
Every golfer probably secretly harbours the dream of purchasing their own layout, and for those who have such means, the opportunity is there as two venues are currently on the market.
Strathmore Golf Centre that is situated in Alyth near Blairgowrie in Perthshire, has been owned for decades by David Norman, Peter Howell and Simon Howell, but a new buyer is being sought to take this popular destination to another level.
It was first placed on the market in 2021, but the dynamic has now been changed, especially after Strathmore was chosen to stage the PGA National Fourball Championship in August – representing the first time that the event had been hosted in Scotland since 1989.
Previously, planning permission was granted for the potential addition of 34 luxury chalet-style lodges and a 30-bedroom sporting lodge with a gym, hot tub and jacuzzi. This will have to be reinstated, but it underlines the significant developmental opportunity here that could attract the interest of holiday park chains.
Speaking to The Courier, David Norman said: “It’s known that we are ultimately looking to sell the centre in preparation to retire.
“We have staged our most prestigious PGA event ever, over the summer, which attracted a lot of attention.
“A luxury staycation resort could easily be created here, with chalet style lodges easy to site.
“As we have had outline planning granted for this before, which has now lapsed, it would not be at all difficult for a new owner to apply and achieve it.
“The proposals were detailed and well thought out. It’s the type of development that would be very much welcomed, creating much needed visitor accommodation, generating jobs and revenue throughout the area, whilst continuing to put Alyth on the map as yet another beautiful Perthshire destination.”
Highly Recommended on Golfshake, Strathmore is currently home to the 18-hole Rannaleroch Course, the nine-hole Leitfie Links, a 10-bay floodlit driving range, practice facilities and a restaurant.
It’s currently listed on the market with Colliers for offers in excess of £1,650,000.
However, Strathmore isn’t the only Scottish venue available. Further south in Midlothian, Newbattle Golf Club is on the market with offers being sought over £2,670,000.
Acclaimed by the Golfshake Community, Newbattle was designed by the great Harry Colt and is located just a few miles from the centre of Edinburgh, meaning that it has an enviable place on the map.
However, the course is just part of the available land, which encompasses neighbouring woods. Edinburgh Live has reported that the land will be sold in 12 lots that could be bought in their entirety or separately.
David & Roberston, the firm handling the sale, commented: “The land extends in total to approx. 346.28 acres (140.14 ha) including a 153 acre (62 ha) golf course and ancillary woodland, 106 acres (43 ha) of prime arable land, 72 acres (29 ha) of amenity woodland and 14 acres (6 ha) of grazing.
“Part of the portfolio currently generates rental income, offering valuable holding return while strategic options are explored. With the region experiencing continued economic and population growth, this portfolio presents a compelling opportunity for those seeking a long-term investment in one of Scotland’s most dynamic growth corridors.
“This exceptional portfolio of strategic land presents a rare and forward-looking opportunity in a highly desirable area of Midlothian.
“Offered for sale as a whole or in up to 12 lots, the land comprises a substantial area with strong potential for phased development, subject to planning. A unique opportunity to acquire the land rented to Newbattle Golf Club, an established and well-landscaped 18-hole golf course and practice area spanning approximately 105 acres bounded by 50 acres of amenity woodland.
“Located on the south edge of Dalkeith, the course is highly accessible, just eight miles from Edinburgh city centre, attractive to both local and visiting golfers across the region. The course operates a successful members club with established local reputation, consistent visitor income with opportunities to develop further. Further information, including lease terms are available on request.”
The closing date for the sale of Newbattle will come at midday on the 23rd of October.
If you have deep enough pockets – or know someone who does – then your dream of owning a golf course could become a reality!
Kieran Clark is the Digital Editor of Golfshake. He oversees editorial content, community engagement, forums, and social media channels. A lifelong golfer from the Isle of Bute in Scotland who has now lived in St Andrews for a decade, he began playing at the age of five and maintains a passion for exploring courses, with a particular affection for historic layouts. Kieran regularly contributes in-depth opinion pieces and features, drawing on his enthusiasm for the game and its culture.
