King’s Links Golf Course

As a member of one fo the links clubs, I thought it would be helpful to update the report on course condition. The greens have been worked on constantly for the past year and are in very good shape, they now have fringes!! The fairways have been tightened, but not too much and the rough has been left to grow, not a bad thing because that was always the view of the links, hit it anywhere and you can always be safe...Not any more. So well done to the greenkeepers, although my handicap has creapt, up the links is now more of a challenge.

As far as municipal courses go, this is average. As a university student, my bank balance resembles that of Roman Abramovich, in every paradoxical sense. As a result, i was looking for something to satisfy my urge for golf at the cheapest possible price. Situated opposite the harrowing Pittodrie Stadium, the course is particularly central, perfect for the questionably discerning student population of Aberdeen. There is also ample car parking space in the adjacent bar and driving range. The price is reasonable and the starters are particularly welcoming. The starters hut doubles as a changing room and a toilet, a no - frills affair. On the first tee you are faced with an expansive fairway and a choice between agressive or passive play due to the nature of the bunker positioning (250 and 265 yards). The fairways are a mess, but this is to be expected in courses of this nature. Concurrently, the greens are in acceptable shape, providing the greenkeeper has turned up for work! As you progress, the course offers blind drives, undulating fairways and flat, slow greens. The course laid out in a traditional links manner, inclusive of a double green on the 5th and 13th! Played in the sun and without wind or rain (in Aberdeen, the final 2 elements are frequently present)this course displays no real challenge. With the wind blowing this course bears its teeth. Although short, many of the holes have fairway bunkers, into which many golf balls are drawn. This course is advisable for anyone wishing to hone their "links golf" skills on a budget. The course is easily accessible for all levels of player. Furthermore, the course gives those visiting the city a cheap experience of scottish golf if the Royal Aberdeen course is unobtainable.