St. Cuthbert Golf Club

If you're staying at Craig Tara and fancy a round, St. Cuthbert Golf Club sits just down the road in South Ayrshire - a proper links course that takes itself seriously without being pretentious about it. The layout winds across genuine Scottish lowland terrain, which means the wind's a real factor and the greens can be tricky even when they look straightforward from the tee. It's the sort of place where you'll see why locals keep coming back.

This is unmistakably a golfer's course rather than a casual knock-about nine holes. You'll want to be reasonably competent with your swing before booking - it's not punishing if you're honest about your handicap, but it won't coddle you either. Non-members can play if they've got a handicap certificate and book ahead, though green fees aren't cheap. Allow four hours minimum, possibly longer if the course is busy.

The club itself is straightforward - clubhouse with the basics, no fancy frills. Go on a weekday morning if you can, especially early season. The Scottish weather's unpredictable, so pack waterproofs even if the forecast looks promising.

Works well if your holiday party includes at least one keen golfer. If everyone's expecting a lazy golf holiday with afternoon pints, you might find it a touch serious. Families are welcome but only if they're old enough to focus for four hours. Worth the short drive from Craig Tara if golf's on your agenda.