SCOTLAND’s newest golf course has officially opened – just 30 minutes south of Glasgow city centre.
A unique feature makes it one of only three of its kind in a country that already boasts some of the world’s most famous golfing venues such as St Andrews, Trump Turnberry and Royal Troon.
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The course is beautifully laid out across rolling countrysideCredit: EASTWOOD TWELVE
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It’s been in the works for the best part of three years
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Many bridges on the property have been refurbished or newly builtCredit: EASTWOOD TWELVE
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And now it’s open to the publicCredit: EASTWOOD TWELVE
Eastwood Twelve is situated just outside the suburban town of Newton Mearns in East Renfrewshire, using land from the eponymous estate.
Indeed it may be a name you recognise and that’s because Eastwood Golf Club, an 18-hole course, was located here before closing down in May 2019.
Nine of the holes from the old course have been brought back to life here, while others have been tweaked.
This is prime golfing territory, with Eastwood occupying an area in between two other courses: Bonnyton Golf Club and East Renfrewshire Golf Club.
But what makes Eastwood Twelve unique?
Well the clue is in the name…
It has 12 holes as opposed to the usual 18 (or nine), making it one of only three 12-hole courses in Scotland (the others being Shiskine on the Isle of Arran and Gogarburn on the outskirts of Edinburgh).
Eastwood Twelve markets itself as “a quality track with all the challenge, in less time”, taking into account that for many modern lifestyles, three to four hours of free time for a round of golf is unfeasible.
The club hopes to appeal to golfers who struggle to fit a full 18 into their schedules but want a greater experience than playing only nine holes.
In total, the course measures 3,246 yards with seven par-4s and five par-3s.
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The course was given the green light to reopen last year after the local council rejected an initial planning application that included a woodland retreat and six luxury houses.
Plans for a woodland retreat and a maximum of three houses are still in the works but in the meantime the focus is on the course, the clubhouse and a cafe that is still to come.
The club opened for play on Friday and posted on Instagram on the day of their grand opening.
They said: “We can’t quite believe it…
“After three years of hard work, dedication, and countless hours out on the course, we’re finally ready to open the doors to Eastwood 12 — Scotland’s newest golf course — this weekend!
“The fairways are looking immaculate, the greens have never been better, and we can’t wait to welcome golfers of all abilities to come and enjoy them.
“While our cafe won’t be open just yet, we’ll have a coffee van on-site over the weekend to keep you fuelled before and after your round.
“All other clubhouse facilities will be open as usual from this Friday, so please make yourself at home.”
Plenty of keen golfers have already tested out the fairways for themselves despite the course being officially open for under 48 hours.
Neil Howie said: “I’ve been extremely excited for Eastwood Twelve to open and managed to play this evening. Fantastic course, some very challenging holes and despite the weather it was brilliant.
“The staff and owners are lovely and it was great having a chat with them.”
Meanwhile Adam McInnes found the course so good that he’s already signed up to become a member.
He said: “Brilliant experience, staff are lovely and make you feel very welcome at the club.
“One of the best courses I’ve played on.”
The cost of a round starts at £27 from Monday to Thursdays, £32 on Fridays and £37 on Saturdays and Sundays.
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Discounts are available for juniors, students and member’s guests and if golfers want to book two rounds in one day, a reduced rate will be offered.
Full adult memberships are available for £750 per year (£68 per month) with cheaper five-day memberships and junior, student, young adult and country options also on offer.
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The old clubhouse of Eastwood Golf Club
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The course measures a total of 3,246 yardsCredit: EASTWOOD TWELVE
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