Trump Aberdeen

A grand, modern links carved through massive dunes. Bold, dramatic, and relentlessly challenging – this is championship golf on a heroic scale.

Slope Rating

145

Par

72

Yardage

7,430

Trump International Aberdeen is a modern links of epic proportions. Opened in 2012 and designed by Dr. Martin Hawtree, it occupies a stretch of towering dunes north of Aberdeen on Scotland’s east coast. The scale is immense – sweeping fairways, massive bunkers, and elevated greens tucked into dune amphitheatres. Every hole is framed by natural landforms that make it feel like the course has always existed. The front nine features strong par-4s and stunning coastal views, building to the cliffside par-3 6th and the risk-reward 7th. The back nine climbs into even wilder terrain, with the 14th through 18th forming a brutal closing stretch. It’s long and demanding, especially in wind, and requires a complete game: towering tee shots, accurate iron play, and a razor-sharp short game. Conditioning is immaculate. This is not a gentle links stroll – it’s a statement course, built to impress and test. Love it or loathe it, you won’t forget it. Ideal for strong players looking for a modern, championship-scale challenge.

Designer

Dr. Martin Hawtree

Opened

2012

Tee time availability

Fair

Special information

Advance booking recommended – packages often include luxury accommodation on site

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

66 – Club event

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 45 minutes

Caddy guide

Highly recommended – for yardages, strategy, and navigating the wind in the dunes

Buggies

Permitted with medical certificate

This is a serious physical and technical test. Choose tees carefully – the back tees are a monster. Drive well, avoid bunkers at all costs, and trust your long irons.

Play conservatively. Use forward tees, avoid trying to overpower long par-4s, and take your medicine from sand. The scenery is incredible – don’t let the scorecard steal the joy.

Challenging. Play short tees, focus on staying in play, and bring plenty of golf balls. A caddie or partner’s help makes the round more enjoyable.

Green speed

10 – fast, pure, and tour-standard when dry

Wind

Often fierce off the North Sea – usually from the southeast. Adds massive difficulty if gusting

Pace of play

Well managed – professional marshals keep things moving despite the course’s length

Nerves on the first tee

Grand and theatrical – elevated tee with huge dunes and clubhouse on display. It’s a true stage.

Clubhouse

Opulent – marble interiors, fine dining, and private whisky tasting rooms

The 6th is a stunning par-3 perched on a cliff edge. The 14th is a sweeping dogleg par-5 through a vast dune corridor. The 18th is a par-5 finishing in a natural amphitheatre – brutal and beautiful.

East coast tends to be dry, but wind is ever-present and often severe. The course is exposed and elevation changes amplify the impact of gusts. Summer evenings bring golden light over the dunes.