Forfar Golf Club

This has to be one of the best value courses in Scotland. 6 of us went last week to play 36 holes having been to Downfield and Carnoustie the 2 preceding days. This decision was based on a memory from a few years ago of having enjoyed the course, but I needn't have worried. The course was every bit as good as I'd remembered. We had handicaps ranging from 8-20, but was equally enjoyable to all. A good, fair, proper golf course - don't be put off by the 'cheap' price tag - this is genuine, exceptional value for money!

12 months on from the Dornoch circuit, we were back north of the border, this time to tackle Carnoustie country – all three courses at Carnoustie plus Downfield, Montrose and a quick detour down to Gleneagles King's. But it all started at Forfar – and what a fantastic course it is. The day didn't actually get off to the most auspicious start with a booking problem and a pro whose mood seemed as capricious as the infamous Scottish weather. We actually encountered the same booking issue at Montrose later in the week and it's worth expounding – namely if you pay a group deposit in advance then they seem to expect one person to pay the balance and you can't divide it up between you – in this case five of us, that equated to a fairly hefty sum. Anyway, eventually we get it sorted and with both the pro's mood and the sky both brightening up, it was time to get down to business. This course really is a bit of a quandary. Nearly all of the fairways have a wonderful convoluted links shape and feel to them – and yet virtually every hole is treelined and secluded amongst the firs. It's not long, but then it doesn't need to be because the trees will cost you a shot if you go offline. As befits a James Braid course, there are some marker posts, a few blind shots and a compelling mix of some demanding holes with ones where par is more attainable. There are a number of really nice holes but my favourite was also James Braid's favourite, the 15th, where it really helps to shape the ball. The 16th is also a very good par 3 where the Bristol Monkey actually pulled off closest to the pin all week by sticking it two feet (even more amazingly he then holed the putt!) The 18th is a bit of a soft finishing hole but there's no way it can deflate the sense of what's gone before it. All in all, this course IS the archetypal hidden gem – and at £35 for a day rate at the weekend it's also excellent value for money. A great start to the week. Tomorrow it's the first introduction to the mighty links of Carnoustie... 8.5/10 'Young P'

Played this course in July 07 when all of Scotland was drowning in rain - never felt a drop! Couldn't have asked for a more perfect day and, without exception, the most value for money course I have EVER played (day ticket is great value). Course was very interesting and, while not long, had you thinking on most holes with trees lining many of the fairways to keep you in check. Beautiful condition and will definately return next year.

An absolute joy to play with the course in super condition for April. Each hole is tree lined and unique with pheasants roaming the fairways. Don't expect any flat lies on the rolling links type fairways. The 15th was probably my favourite hole which dog legs to the right. Professional could not have been more helpful when I arrived. Definately worth a visit if you're in the Dundee area.

My favourite course in Scotland, better even than Rosemount. A fair challenge, a beautiful setting, and some truly memorable holes. First and last time I have ever broken 80 with a dreamlike 76 on a stunning June day playing with my late father with the course to ourselves. A golfing memory I'll never forget.

Forfar, Cunninghill is one of the best courses any golfer will play when visiting Angus. Lucily, I being a member of the club can take this lovely course for granted every week..! The layout is superb, it's undulations are second to none, the design of the holes are testing and a good challenge for a golfer of any calibre. Our greens are forgiving, and very true. No matter what time of the year you play here, it's always going to be tough, if the wind blows it will be like trying the open championship course at Carnoustie, or somewhere in the US like Augusta, or Pebble Beach, it truely is that good. You ought to be straight and if you stray wide, the course will cost you.. Beware..!! And happy golfing..

From [email protected] Has Been Many Years Since I Played This Course But If My Memory Serves Me Correctly The Name Should Read 'cunninghill'.

A Good Pub Nearby Is The Stag Hotel, It Has Rooms, Does Nice Lunches And Has A Friendly Atmosphere At Night. It Is Situated In The Centre Of Forfar.

An excellent course with fine greens. Very pleasant and helpful folk provide a real welcome. Dick Elbourne 22 handicap