Scottish golf clubs report stunning junior membership increase

Providing encouraging signs for the future of Scottish golf clubs, there has been a significant increase in membership numbers during the past year, with the most dramatic rise coming in the form of junior boys.

Based on returns from 560 of Scottish Golf’s member clubs, figures for 2025 show that total playing membership now stands at 220,210 - a rise of 11,176, signifying the biggest growth for four years since an upturn following the pandemic. 

While adult male (+2.9%) and adult female (+1.6%) figures climbed steadily, the most spectacular increase came in the number of junior boys joining clubs. 

Year-on-year the number of junior boys taking up membership has grown by 28.2% - a staggering rise of 6,075 players.  

Junior girl playing membership is also on the rise, up 2.9% compared to 2024 and boosted by Scottish Golf junior golf programmes directed specifically at girls such as Girls GolfSixes. 

Scottish Golf’s participation programmes, which form part of a ‘National Junior Framework’, were delivered by 175 clubs nationwide (up 8% from 2024), and have been key to driving significant change in the junior game. 

The news on membership growth, in the face of economic pressures, adds to the positive momentum already powering the game in Scotland. 

During 2025 the game in Scotland, supported by Scottish Golf’s aim to create strong, sustainable and resilient clubs, has enjoyed some significant successes. 

Robbie Clyde, CEO of Scottish Golf, said: "The new membership figures are the product of so many good things happening around the country supported by our day-to-day work with clubs, areas and counties. 

"It is particularly pleasing to see increases across all regions of the country with the Highlands and Islands and the North East showing greatest levels of growth.

"We know that there is still a lot of work to do to drive membership into clubs in some areas, but there is a real buzz around the game.  

"I speak for everyone who works for and with Scottish Golf when I say that we will not take our foot off the pedal in driving continued growth. 

"Going into 2026 on the back of so much positivity gives me and everyone at Scottish Golf the incentive to push on with our plans. 

"Clubs and facilities, the places where golf is enjoyed, are at the heart of community life in Scotland, and we will continue to back them with support, guidance and funding. 

"We’ve entered 2026 with continuing vigour to grow the game and ensure anyone who wants to pick up a club has the opportunity to do so and can feel at home and welcomed in our sport."

Scotland is the home of golf and promoting its many benefits remains a focus for Clyde and those at Scottish Golf.

"Golf is so much more than a game. For many it’s a social lifeline, a positive way to enjoy healthy exercise in the outdoors, to enjoy some spirited competition. 

"Golf should be recognised as Scotland’s game for everyone, and we will continue to champion our sport in every community as the game that Scotland gave to the world."