The Ultimate golf experience in Carnoustie, Scotland

Arrival in Style on the Caledonian Sleeper

How exciting to stay in a hotel where some of golf’s most memorable and iconic golfers have also stayed. When we were invited for a couple of nights at Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa, we jumped at the chance.

My golfing buddy and I packed our bags, polished our clubs, and had a few practice rounds locally before travelling to Scotland, so as not to embarrass ourselves on the Championship and Burnside courses at the hotel, booked through Carnoustie Golf Links (please note these courses are booked separately to the hotel).

We travelled in style by Caledonian Sleeper from Euston to Carnoustie in a fantastic sleeper compartment with a super-comfy bed, powerful shower, dinner, and breakfast. The sleeper train was so quiet, ensuring we enjoyed our overnight journey and arrived fresh and ready for our first round. The compartment was plenty big enough for our luggage, including a full set of clubs and a small suitcase.

As soon as we checked in, we headed to the dining carriage for evening meal of soup, roast beef, and apple pie with custard—all presented beautifully, tasting great, and steaming hot. It was late, so we went straight to bed and slept like babies. We arrived in Carnoustie early, following a bacon sandwich in our room with coffee and orange juice, setting us up perfectly for golf.

Luxurious Rooms with Golf Course Views

Before golf, we checked into our double room at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa. It was large and bright, with every possible amenity: free Wi-Fi, two single beds with crisp white linen, a fabulous bathroom, a seating area, tea and coffee facilities, and—most importantly—a superb view of the golf course.

Playing the Iconic Courses

Unpacked and ready, nerves kicked in—we were playing one of the world’s most famous courses. We played well on The Burnside; it was a sunny, bright day—challenging, but what an experience.

Afternoon Tea and Driving Range

Following our round, we enjoyed Afternoon Tea—a quintessentially British treat. The dainty sandwiches, pastries, and scones were delicious. The tea choice was intimidating, but we opted for English Breakfast. Dehydrated and hungry, it was a real pleasure.

In hindsight, we should have rested, but we hit the driving range for the next day’s Championship Course.

Dining at Calders Bistro

We freshened up and dined at Calders Bistro. Starving again, we started with delicious Haggis spring rolls, followed by the Americano Burger in a brioche bun with gherkins, relish, cheese, fried onions, and fries—steaming hot, soft, and juicy. We finished with sorbets, though the chocolate desserts looked amazing.

The Championship Course Challenge

After a great night’s sleep, we fuelled up with a large cooked breakfast: full English, fresh fruit, pastries, orange juice, and coffee—perfection.

It was typically Scottish weather—howling, wet, and windy—but our caddies said it offered the optimum experience, making it one of the world’s trickiest courses. Their advice on every hole helped us play out of our skins. Wearing Lomond Golf Company clothing, the weather didn’t matter; we loved every minute.

That evening, we dined again at Calders, reliving every hole, before retiring happy.

Spa Relaxation and Departure

Achy, we treated ourselves to the spa: a swim, massage, and glimpse of the stunning gym (though we ran out of time).

Returning via Caledonian Sleeper with dinner and breakfast, we arrived in Euston relaxed at 8 a.m. This was possibly our most special UK weekend. We’d give the Caledonian Sleeper, Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa, and Carnoustie Golf Links 11 out of 10.