ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
The course sits beside one of Scotland’s oldest lighthouses, Southerness Lighthouse, built in 1748 and used until 1936. The lighthouse features on the club's logo and provides a striking landmark along several holes.
About
Southerness Golf Club is a classic links course designed by Philip Mackenzie Ross in 1947, set on the scenic shores of the Solway Firth in southwest Scotland. Famed for its natural terrain, fast fescue greens, strategic routing, and tranquil atmosphere, it is regarded as Mackenzie Ross’s finest solo achievement and a top championship links challenge.
Caddie Tip
Play conservatively into the wind—Southerness’s location brings steady breezes from the Solway Firth, making club selection vital on approach shots. On several inland holes, avoid aiming at the visually distracting caravan park, and favor left-side fairway targets to open up green angles and avoid tricky rough.
The Main Challenge
The major challenge at Southerness is its persistent wind off the Solway Firth, affecting every shot and making distance control difficult. Bunkers are strategically placed to catch errant drives, and approaches into elevated or exposed greens demand precision. The closing stretch requires calm under pressure, especially when the wind is swirling.
The Good
Golfers rave about the tranquil setting and classic links design, particularly the strategic bunkering and fast fescue greens. The breathtaking vistas of the Solway Firth, coupled with the untouched natural terrain and peaceful atmosphere, make it a memorable experience for traditional links golf lovers.
The Not So Good
Some golfers note inconsistent fairway conditions after heavy rain, and the routing through caravan park views is less scenic than the coastal holes. A few wish for more variety on the shorter par 4s and improved clubhouse furnishings.
Signature Hole:
#
12
Hole 12, a par 4, is considered Southerness’s signature, playing from an elevated tee that offers panoramic coastal views and a demanding drive into prevailing winds. The approach shot is to a well-bunkered green, requiring accuracy and courage due to the surrounding natural dunes and ever-changing wind conditions.
Clubhouse
Visitors will find a warm and welcoming clubhouse offering traditional Scottish food, a well-stocked bar, locker rooms, showers, and panoramic views of the front nine. The pro shop provides rentals, merchandise, and advice for links play. Ample seating and an outdoor patio are available.
Practice Facilities
Southerness offers a dedicated practice area with putting green, short game zone, and chipping green. Range balls are limited, but the natural turf practice facilities help simulate the real on-course conditions. Ample space is provided for warm-ups and instruction.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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