Forres Golf Club

Two of Scotland’s greatest course architects have combined their enormous talents to create the gloriously pretty and hugely enjoyable Forres. James Braid designed the original nine and Willie Park expanded the course to 18 in 1912.

As you survey the opening 300-yard par-4, you might mistakenly imagine that you’re in for an easy time. Although short by today’s standards, the course defences include plenty of bunkers, substantial trees and tricky greens.

After the first four holes – relatively short and undulating par-4s  – the course levels out somewhat and the principal requirement is to keep the ball away from the menacing trees either side of the fairway.

Built on sandy soil and with splendid views over Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth., the course never floods and there’s only one serious water hazard and that comes at the intriguing 16th.

Forres is one of Scotland's oldest small towns, and also one of its most attractive.

Situated in just off the A96 about 27 miles east of the Highland capital of Inverness, the town boasts impressive parks and gardens with outstanding floral sculptures as well as its own 18 hole parkland golf course.

Designed by Open Championship winners James Braid and Willie Park the Par 70 course is just less than 6300 yards from the tips and although not the longest by today’s standards it provides a good test for golfers of all abilities. Well known for its spectacular views over Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth, Forres Golf Course is a beautifully maintained, picturesque and interesting layout that will satisfy all who play it. The course is full of memorable holes; none more so than the 16th, aptly named ‘Pond’ this is a spectacular hole where a watery grave awaits errant tee shots.

In its recent history Forres has been honoured to host events such as the Scottish Professional Championship, the Northern Open, and the Scottish Young Professionals Championships - a testimony to it’s quality.

• Course has: Bar
• Course has: Buggy Hire
• Course has: Driving Range
• Course does not have: Practice Green
• Course has: Pro Shop
• Course has: Restaurant
• Course has: Trolley Hire
• Course does not have: Dress Code
• Course has: Club Hire
• Course does not have: Handicap

• 3.5 out of 5 Golf for pleasure 27 September 2005

  By Anonymous

  A very well kept course, excellent greens and the chance to enjoy a good score without being John Daly.