Kittocks

A scenic resort links with wide fairways and dramatic cliffside holes. Underrated and enjoyable, with forgiving playability and postcard-worthy views.

Slope Rating

132

Par

72

Yardage

7,192

The Kittocks Course is the quieter sibling to the Torrance, but it holds its own with a blend of visual drama and relaxed playability. Designed originally by Bruce Devlin and later refined by Gene Sarazen, it sprawls over the Fairmont resort’s clifftop land. The early holes offer generous fairways and relatively gentle scoring chances. But things tighten up as you head toward the coastline, where exposed elevation, rolling terrain, and cliffside greens take over. The par-3 17th, perched above the water, is as scenic as any in Fife. The wind is always in play, but the course is more forgiving than Torrance – wider landing zones, softer contours, and fewer penal bunkers. That said, it still rewards good strategy. Greens are large and receptive, with subtle undulations. The finishing holes bring drama, especially with the North Sea breeze picking up in the afternoon. With stunning views, resort-level conditioning, and a less punishing setup, Kittocks is a brilliant complement to tougher links in the region.

Designer

Bruce Devlin & Gene Sarazen

Opened

2001

Tee time availability

Good

Special information

Easier to book than Torrance. Often paired in two-round stay-and-play packages.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

66 – Local event (unofficial)

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Optional – course is easy to navigate, but helpful in the wind

Buggies

Permitted – popular with resort guests

Play aggressively – the layout invites scoring. Be wary of swirling winds near the cliff holes. Good chance to go low if conditions are calm.

Perfect confidence-builder after tougher rounds. Aim for centre of greens, avoid overthinking strategy, and enjoy the rhythm of wide fairways and receptive targets.

Very playable – wide off the tee, forgiving terrain, and generous greens. Focus on solid contact and enjoy one of the most scenic rounds in Scotland.

Green speed

9 – medium-fast, consistent, and fair

Wind

Coastal exposure brings regular breezes, especially late in the day

Pace of play

Generally relaxed – resort feel, but well supervised

Nerves on the first tee

Minimal pressure. A scenic opener with ample space and a calming start

Clubhouse

Luxury resort facilities shared with Torrance – modern and elegant

The par-3 17th is unforgettable – played over a ravine to a green framed by the sea. The 9th is a rising par-5 with a distant coastline view, while the 18th offers a sweeping descent toward the resort with strategic bunkering and a wide, rolling fairway.

East coast climate – generally dry but breezy. Early mornings are still, afternoons bring wind. Summer and early autumn are best for light and turf firmness.