37 Machrihanish

Architect: T Morris Stats: 6,235 yds, par 70, SSS 71 GF: £25-£60 Visitor information: Course is open to the public every day, but check tee times W: machgolf.com 2008 Ranking: 34 (Down 3) Improvements since 2008 Rankings: Course: Tees overhauled, new turf at 6, 7 and 14 - 75% of bunkers have been remodelled Clubhouse: New visitors locker room and refurbishment of washrooms

Set towards the south-western tip of the Kintyre Peninsula, Machrihanish is a firm favourite with all lovers of traditional links golf. Most famous for the testing 1st hole, the course offers fabulous views as it winds through the dunes. It's rugged, windswept and natural, amazingly contoured and asks you to do battle with a number of blind shots.

Panellists' comments: "The 1st hole is amongst the UK's finest"; "Find time to make the pilgrimage; you won't be disappointed"

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