C

hoosing courses to play in Scotland or England is a bewildering experience, the choice seems limitless. Between them they have well over two thousand eighteen hole courses, from links to parkland layouts. The wiser approach is to decide upon the area you wish to see rather than the courses you would like to play, for wherever you find yourself there will undoubtedly be a number of courses nearby and in many cases one that has earned itself a place in the history of the game at one time or another.

For breathtaking natural beauty, the Scottish Highlands are unsurpassed. Mountains, glens and lochs combine to form some of the most spectacular, unspoilt landscapes in the world. The last untamed wilderness in Europe is home to red deer, wildcats and golden eagles. You can roam heather-clad moors, explore forest trails, fish, ride or enjoy the year-round sports facilities at Aviemore at the foot of the Cairngorms with golf and winter skiing, fishing, walking and water-sports in summer. Ben Nevis, Britain's highest peak, is here. Balmoral and Braemar are favourite royal retreats.

St. Andrews, Scotland

For golfers, the highlight will be nearby St Andrew's, the home of golf and a must to play, but you can also explore the quaint harbours, beaches and beautiful countryside that this lovely area has to offer.

Northern England contains no fewer than five National Parks. England meets Scotland in Northumberland and the turbulent history of the Borders is reflected in its fortified towers, Iron Age forts and impressive Hadrian's Wall. England's Lake District is famous the world over.

Gallery at Carnoustie Golf Club

England's Midlands also offers a host of enjoyable holiday experiences. Here are the old Shire Counties with picturesque scenery and a rich heritage of castle, cathedrals and stately homes.

Royal Liverpool

Royal Lytham & St. Anne's

Thurlstone in Devon

Some of England's prettiest countryside is found along the south coast. White cliffs and rolling downs look down on popular seaside resorts and beaches. Kent's orchards and fields have given it the title 'The Garden of England'. Everywhere there are picturesque villages, castles, gardens and stately homes. The ancient New Forest in the county of Hampshire has its own unique beauty, while just across the Solent lies the fascinating Isle of Wight. All this lies within easy reach of London, with its pageantry, famous landmarks, exclusive shops and restaurants, music, art and famous West End theatres. London's lesser-known sights can be equally enjoyable - street markets, elegant squares and leafy parks. 

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