Golf has been played at North Inch for over 500 years, and with the River Tay looming nearby, it still offers a true test today
15:30, 09 May 2025Updated 15:30, 09 May 2025
Often overlooked, North Inch Golf Course sits just minutes from Perth city centre and offers a historic, affordable round(Image: North Inch Golf Course)
When people picture golf in Scotland, the scene often involves windswept links courses hugging the coastline, shaped over centuries by the natural elements. Regions like Fife, Ayrshire, and East Lothian are world renowned, drawing golf enthusiasts globally to test their skills on these classic seaside layouts.
However, Scotland offers exceptional inland golf too, with Perthshire widely considered the capital in this regard. This region provides a vast selection of top tier courses catering to all tastes and abilities.
From the world famous glamour of Gleneagles to the unique charm of Pitlochry and the stunning beauty found at Blairgowrie, Perthshire is a magnet for golfers seeking an inland challenge. With such a wealth of options across the county, it is easy to overlook the golfing opportunities within the city of Perth itself.
Yet, Perth is home to one of Scotland’s most historic golf courses, offering visitors the chance to play a round for less than £25, the Scottish Daily Express reports.
North Inch Golf Course is conveniently located just a short walk from Perth city centre. Situated within the park of the same name, the course provides a compelling escape from urban life while presenting a genuine test of golfing ability.
The majestic River Tay borders the course along its eastern edge, serving as a beautiful backdrop but also a very real water hazard on several holes.
North Inch Golf Course offers a peaceful parkland escape just minutes from Perth city centre, with the River Tay adding both beauty and challenge along its edge(Image: North Inch Golf Course)
Measuring 5,480 yards from the white tees, North Inch is not a particularly long course. Its design includes six par threes, two of which play at less than 100 yards.
Despite its modest length, the course presents challenges through strategically placed, tricky bunkers and numerous trees that serve as obstacles best navigated carefully.
The course features several memorable holes that enhance the golfing experience. The second hole offers unbeatable views of Kinnoull Hill, providing a stunning vista overlooking the city. Later in the round, the 15th hole runs directly along the banks of the River Tay, bringing the prominent water feature into play.
However, the most unforgettable hole on North Inch is arguably the 16th. Playing at just 78 yards, it must surely rank among the most picturesque par threes anywhere in the world.
While short, it is fraught with danger; a deep bunker and a burn protect the front of the green, and any shot hit long or left faces the prospect of disappearing into the dark waters of the River Tay.
The history of golf on North Inch is believed to stretch back over 500 years, with the earliest written record dating from 1599.
Parts of the course’s current layout were designed by the legendary Old Tom Morris, a pioneering figure in golf who famously won four Open Championships between 1861 and 1867.
One of the course’s most attractive aspects today remains its affordability. Tee times during the week start from just £23, making it highly accessible for both local golfers and visitors.
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The course is open seven days a week, and even a round at peak time remains budget friendly, with the most expensive tee times typically costing around £32.
While North Inch Golf Course itself does not feature a 19th hole facility, the city of Perth is less than a 15 minute walk away.
Perth’s attractive architecture and historic centre offer plenty of options for post round refreshments, including highly rated establishments such as the Old Ship Inn for a drink or the award winning 63 Tay Street for dining.
North Inch provides a historic, scenic, and affordable golfing experience right in the heart of Scotland’s inland golf capital.
