Founded in 1780 as the Society of Golfers at Aberdeen, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club ranks as the eighth oldest golf club globally. Originally playing on public land between the Don and Dee rivers, the club relocated to the Balgownie links north of the river Don in 1888 due to overcrowding. Despite receiving patronage from Prince Leopold earlier, it officially gained its royal title in 1903.
The course layout, crafted by the Simpson brothers—Robert, Archie, and Tom—and refined by golfing legends like J. H. Taylor, James Braid, and Donald Steel, follows a traditional out-and-back links style along the North Sea. The first nine holes are particularly famed for their direct approach towards the sea, framed by towering sand dunes. The back nine, while offering stunning views, pose a greater challenge with their exposure to winds.
Royal Aberdeen has hosted prestigious tournaments including the 2005 Senior British Open won by Tom Watson, the 2011 Walker Cup claimed by Great Britain & Ireland, and the 2014 Scottish Open won by Justin Rose. The club maintains strict traditions with its dress code and rules, notably establishing the original five-minute ball search rule in 1783, now reduced to three minutes.
Renowned for its historical significance, challenging links play, and hosting of international events, Royal Aberdeen Golf Club continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in golf.
