Newmachar Golf Club (Hawkshill Course)

Hawkshill's Demanding Woodland Test

The Hawkshill Championship Course at Newmachar Golf Club opened in 1990 after more than a decade of planning. Dave Thomas transformed 135 acres of mixed farmland, rough ground, heathland, and bog into the older of the club's two 18-hole layouts.

Although relatively modern, the course carries a settled woodland character. Mature silver birch and Scots pine frame the fairways, while gently rolling ground creates changing stances and partially screened approaches. The trees also narrow the view from several tees, making line and position important before the ball reaches the green.

Water enters play on five holes, including both the opening and closing stretches. Bunkers are prominent around landing areas and greens, reflecting the strong visual style associated with Thomas's designs. These hazards make the par-72 layout more demanding than its modest age might suggest.

Hawkshill has also proved capable of staging serious competition. It hosted the Scottish Seniors Open in 1997 and returned to the professional calendar with the Farmfoods Scottish Challenge in 2022.