Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club

Barassie was love at first sight. With its two courses, this place is a real hidden gem—brilliant from start to finish. What makes it special is the authentic, local vibe. It’s a proper Scottish members’ club with mostly local players and very few tourists, especially Americans, which made the experience feel even more genuine. The courses themselves are in great condition, offering a fun mix of challenges and classic links golf scenery. It might be overlooked compared to some of the bigger names, but we were thrilled to discover it—and would happily return anytime.

Geweldige golfbaan. Super greens en uitdagende bunkers waar je liever niet in wilt komen. Zeer gastvrije ontvangst

Kilmarnock Barassie is seeking constant improvement both in the clubhouse which has been redesigned to create a part-modern, part-traditional feel and on the course with plans for more changes in the near future. Thus, I was delighted to take the chance of playing at what the locals know as Barassie after being drawn against a member in a society knockout. After an excellent breakfast, chat with the knowledgable and enthusiastic general manager and a much-needed bit of putting practice, my host and I adjourned to the links. He told me that the wind isn't usually against on what turned out to be an inauspicious opener - a 500+-yard par-five which saw us both drive way right,, clearly intimidated by the prospect of bunkers deep rough or even the housing estate on the right. Water threatens again for longer hitters on the par-four third. The sensible shot is a lay-up before a clip into a big green that falls top left to bottom right. I was told that the par-three fourth will be lost if planned changes go ahead and that makes me a little sad even though I succumbed to its perils. My mistake was punching the ball down the middle rather the float into the green or go down the right hand side. The consequence was that I saw it catch an undulation and plop into the burn that runs the length of the hole on the left-hand side. There are great views across neighbouring Western Gailes and out to see from the back tees on the fifth. They clearly inspired me on this par-four that runs parallel to a railway line, My drive flew the bunker on the right-hand side and my second shot trundled up to within two feet of the hole. A sip of whisky celebrated the birdie. I threw away all of a five-hole advantage but managed to eke out a victory with a bit of good fortune on the final holes. The wind had made the match challenging and the bunkers had multiplied the difficulty but I had nonetheless had a great time in super company. It was rounded off by a delicious scone as I waited for Mrs W to deal with a flat tyre on a car... but that is a different story.

The Hillhouse course at Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club is part of the original layout built in 1887. Currently, there are 27 holes: 9, mostly part of the original course, and 9 built in the 1990s.

It is really a members' club where people show up and play their rounds. Visitors are very welcome too. They have a very reasonable green fee (you can probably play 6 rounds here for 1 round at Turnberry), and the food and service in the clubhouse are excellent.

The course is boxed in between two railroads, which adds to the links experience. The greens were in great shape, especially after the horrible winter they had.

So if you are looking for a great links experience and want to play 9,18, or 27 holes, this is the place. ".

I recently had the pleasure of playing at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club, and what an adventure it turned out to be! Despite Storm Kathleen appearing, I couldn't have asked for a better golfing experience.

From the moment I arrived, the friendly vibes and stunning views set the tone for an enjoyable day on the course. Despite the weather's best efforts, the clubhouse provided a cozy refuge, complete with delicious food and warm hospitality.

The highlight of my visit was definitely playing both the Barassie Links and the Hillhouse Course. The Barassie Links, with its mix of original and new holes, offered a challenging yet rewarding round of golf amidst beautiful scenery. And the Hillhouse Course (the original back nine), with its historic charm and unique challenges, was a delightful surprise.

Although Storm Kathleen dashed my hopes of playing some neighbouring famous courses, Kilmarnock Barassie more than made up for it with its character and allure. It might not have the international fame of Royal Troon or Prestwick, but it certainly holds its own as a hidden gem in Scotland.

Overall, my time at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club was fantastic, and I can't wait to return for another round, hopefully under sunnier skies!