Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Shetland Islands

Golf at the Edge of the World

Scotland is the home of golf, and even its most northerly islands share the passion. Golf in the Shetland Islands is a uniquely memorable experience. Courses wind through dramatic landscapes, where wind is a constant companion and sea views appear at almost every turn. In June, the simmer dim means golfers can tee off late in the evening and still finish in daylight, a novelty that delights visitors.

Shetland has three established golf clubs, each with its own character. Because the number of courses is small, this guide combines the islands' courses with the best golfing experiences, facilities and opportunities that together form Shetland's top ten for golfers.

How We Selected

We considered course quality, scenery, playing challenge, visitor welcome, facilities and the overall experience of golf in an island setting.

The Top 10 Golf Courses and Golfing Experiences

1. Shetland Golf Club, Dale

Located in the Dale valley a short drive north of Lerwick, Shetland Golf Club offers an eighteen-hole course set among rolling hills, with a burn running through the valley adding challenge. It is the islands' main golfing venue, with a welcoming clubhouse and an active membership that runs competitions throughout the season.

2. Whalsay Golf Club

Whalsay Golf Club is famous for being the most northerly eighteen-hole course in the United Kingdom. Set on the island of Whalsay, reached by a short ferry crossing, the course offers stunning coastal views and a true sense of adventure, making it a bucket-list destination for golfers.

3. Asta Golf Club

Asta Golf Club is a nine-hole course near Tingwall, close to Scalloway, set beside a picturesque loch. Its friendly, relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for beginners, families and players looking for a quicker round.

4. Midsummer Evening Golf

Playing a round under the simmer dim is an experience unique to the far north. Teeing off late on a June evening and finishing in soft twilight is something few golfers ever forget.

5. Club Open Competitions

Shetland's golf clubs host open competitions during the summer, welcoming visiting players to compete alongside locals. These events are a great way to experience island hospitality.

6. Inter-Club and Inter-Island Matches

Friendly rivalries between Shetland clubs, and fixtures with players from Orkney, add competitive spice to the golfing calendar and showcase the islands' best talent.

7. Junior Golf Coaching

Junior coaching programmes introduce young people to the game, building skills, confidence and a lifelong love of golf. These programmes help secure the future of the sport in the islands.

8. Practice Facilities

Practice areas and putting greens at the clubs allow golfers to refine their game. Practising in Shetland's winds is excellent preparation for links golf anywhere in the world.

9. Golf and Wildlife Combined Trips

Many visiting golfers combine rounds with wildlife watching, visiting puffin colonies at Sumburgh Head or seabird cliffs at Hermaness and Noss. Shetland offers the chance to pair sport with spectacular nature.

10. Winter and Off-Season Golf

Hardy local golfers play throughout much of the year, weather permitting. Off-season rounds offer quiet courses, dramatic skies and the satisfaction of mastering challenging conditions.

Playing Golf in Shetland's Conditions

Wind is the defining factor of Shetland golf. Low, controlled shots, careful club selection and patience are essential. Weather can change quickly, so waterproofs and layers are a must. Courses can be soft after rain, so appropriate footwear makes a big difference. Many visitors find that Shetland golf sharpens their skills and gives them stories to tell for years.

Golf Trends in the Islands

Golf clubs in Shetland are increasingly focused on attracting new players, including women, juniors and visitors. Flexible membership options, taster sessions and social golf events help broaden participation. Tourism also plays a role, as golfers seek unique destinations, and the novelty of playing the UK's most northerly eighteen-hole course attracts interest from far afield.

Tips for Visiting Golfers

• Check ferry times if planning to play at Whalsay.
• Pack waterproofs, windproof layers and spare gloves.
• Contact clubs in advance about visitor arrangements.
• Consider playing in June to experience the simmer dim.
• Combine your trip with Shetland's wildlife and heritage sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many golf courses are there in Shetland?

Shetland has three golf clubs: Shetland Golf Club at Dale, Whalsay Golf Club and Asta Golf Club near Tingwall.

Can visitors play without being members?

Yes. Visitors are generally welcome, and green fee arrangements are available. Contacting the club in advance is recommended, especially for competition days.

When is the best time to play?

Late spring to late summer offers the best conditions and the longest days, with June providing almost round-the-clock light.

Conclusion

Golf in Shetland offers something no mainland course can match: a blend of dramatic scenery, island hospitality and the challenge of playing at the edge of the North Atlantic. Whether you play the full eighteen at Dale, take the ferry to Whalsay or enjoy a relaxed nine at Asta, Shetland golf is an unforgettable experience.