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Kinghorn thistle
Golf club
Over 140 years of golfing heritage on Scotland's historic links Discover more Explore our history close
A Hidden
Scottish Gem
Welcome to Kinghorn Golf Course, a historic and scenic 18-hole links course located on the stunning Fife coastline Discover close VIEW THE COURSE
Kinghorn Thistle Golf club
Aerial shot of Kinghorn golf course in Fife

Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club

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Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club – A Proud Legacy

Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club – A Proud Legacy

Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club - Steeped in history, shaped by legends, and standing the test of time.

Golf has been played on Kinghorn Links since at least 1812, as documented in The Hutton Letter. The course, originally designed by Tom Morris in 1887, sits on publicly owned coastal land, offering breathtaking views over the Firth of Forth.

With the completion of the Forth Railway Bridge in 1890, Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club experienced a surge in membership, with over 60% of early members traveling from Edinburgh. By 1905, additional land was secured, and the renowned course architect Willie Fernie of Troon expanded the course to a challenging 18-hole layout—the foundation of the links experience enjoyed today.

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A Competitive & Social Golfing Hub

Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club remains a thriving and independent men’s club, open to golfers aged 16 and over. The club actively competes in prestigious local and national events.

Additionally, the club enjoys strong ties with Kinghorn & Burntisland Golf Clubs, with annual home-and-away matches. It is also part of the historic Fife ‘Thistle’ Clubs, maintaining long-standing friendships with St Andrews Thistle, Earlsferry Thistle, and Leven Thistle Golf Clubs.

The Fife Team Championship

The Advertiser Trophy

The Daily Mail Foursomes

The Belhaven Best Scottish Club Handicap Championship

Nairn Trophy

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A Rich Competitive History

Preserving Tradition, Embracing the Future

Approaching its 140th anniversary, Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club continues to honour its deep-rooted traditions while evolving with the modern game.

From its origins as a 9-hole course in 1887, the course has transformed into a thrilling 18-hole challenge, blending historical charm with strategic play. Generations of golfers have walked these fairways, and today’s players continue the legacy of competition, camaraderie, and respect for the game.

Its historical trophies and medals are proudly displayed at Kinghorn Golf Club, celebrating generations of members who have contributed to its rich legacy.

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Kinghorn Thistle Golf Course
1
Hole 1 Greenland (263 yards)
2
Hole 2 Rock (224 yards)
3
Hole 3 Burn (246 yards)
4
Hole 4 Dyke (156 yards)
5
Hole 5 Greenhollow (236 yards)
6
Hole 6 Gate (256 yards)
7
Hole 7 Road Hole (189 yards)
8
Hole 8 Donald (132 yards)
9
Hole 9 Home (236 yards)

Testimonials

"Playing Kinghorn as a Thistle member is an experience like no other challenging but rewarding"

John DMember since 2010

"The history and camaraderie of the club make every round special."

Alan MCompetition Winner

"Playing here as a member is a privilege"

David RMember since 1998

"The final five holes can make or break your round – they may look simple on the scorecard, but underestimate them at your peril!"

Mark TLocal Golfer

Contact the Kinghorn Thistle Golf Club team