Course Guides
Dougalston Golf Club
Address: Strathblane Road, Milngavie, Glasgow G62 8HJ
Location: Seven miles from Glasgow city centre on the A81 out of Milngavie
Telephone: 0141-956-5750
Course Description
By Alan Bilsborough (abilsborough@cix.co.uk)
In dry conditions, Dougalston must rate as one of the best inland courses in Scotland. Virtually every hole is self-contained by trees which makes the course a VERY tough but enjoyable challenge. If you're not driving straight then a nightmare score is guaranteed. Low handicaps are a rarity here - so much so that a nearby golf club decreases the handicaps of all Dougalston members who enter their Open! The ground conditions/drainage don't quite match the layout but an enjoyable round is still guaranteed. P.S. It wouldn't surprise me if the phrase 'Golf, a good walk spoiled.' originated from Dougalston!
By Iain Glen Muir (iain@ttk.u-net.com)
One of the few mature woodland courses in Scotland, Dougalston is a genuine championship course with a formidable reputation. Set in a rolling landscape dotted with lochs and criss-crossed by streams and drumlins, it provides a tremendous test of golf for even the most accomplished golfer. A thoughtful approach is required to shoot a low score at Dougalston. Position is crucial to success at virtually every hole and it is imperative to lay up when necessary. Accuracy is vital. It is a measure of the strength of Dougalston s layout that although still relatively young in years, it looks to have been there for as long as the forest itself through which it has been carved. Designed by Commander Harris and opened in 1976, the course measures 6,700 yards (Par 71; SSS 72) and has the potential to be even longer. The 1st hole is simply outstanding and it would be hard to find a better opening hole on any inland course in Scotland. The 2nd, 7th, 8th, 14th and 17th are all superb par 4 s, whilst the par 3 3rd and 10th holes at 197 and 190 yds respectively (all carry to tree-surrounded plateau greens) will test the accuracy of your short game to the full. There are others worthy of mention, each with their own unique and individual character. As to which is the best hole on the course I can only suggest that you come and judge for yourself.
By Stephen Marley (stephen@memex.co.uk)
I have been a member of this course for 2 years and would recommend it as an exceptionally demanding and scenic test of golf. Visitors are always welcome (please phone first) and full membership is currently open for 345 pounds per year. Around Dougalston, good course management is essential for a low score as the tree lined fairways and abundance of water put a premium on accuracy. Birdies are hard to come by and playing to your handicap is always a challenge. Come along in June, when the rhododendrons are in bloom and the greens are at their smoothest for some of the best golf Strathclyde has to offer.
More Details
- Bar and dining-room. Varied menu.
- Golf carts hire
- Putting green
- Practice ground
- Visitors: Weekdays 8a.m. to 4.30p.m
- Holes: 18
- Yardage: 6269
- SSS: 71



