Club History

Ballater Golf Club founded in 1892 was honoured to have had the former HRH The Duke of Rothesay as Patron of the Club.

Ballater Golf Club was originally established as a nine hole course, on land owned by the Laird of Invercauld. In 1905 when further farmland became available the course was expanded to the eighteen holes we know today.

An exhibition match was staged in August 1906, between two very well known golfers of the time, five times Open Champion James Braid and six times Open Champion Harry Vardon, to celebrate the construction of a pavilion and the extension of the course.

This eighteen hole, medium length golf course is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Upper Deeside.
Ballater and its golf course lie within a circle of hills with glorious views, offering a delightful golfing experience.

The course can best be described as heathland, although farther away from the river there are some distinct parkland characteristics.


Ballater offers its toughest test to par on its opening six holes, which include two difficult par threes. However, with the beautiful scenery, dominated by Lochnagar to the west, and the fresh Highland air, few can fail to enjoy this lovely course.

A comprehensive book detailing the history of the club is available.