Spectacular new Scottish golf course to open in May 2026

Joining the celebrated Castle Stuart layout, Cabot Highlands unveiled its new Old Petty course designed by Tom Doak last summer for preview play, but it will soon officially open to the public on May 15.

Golfers were given an exclusive early opportunity to experience Old Petty during a limited preview window in August and September last year, offering a first look at the highly anticipated layout before it reached full maturity. The response was emphatically positive, with visiting golfers and industry insiders praising the course’s natural routing, dramatic coastal setting and seamless integration with the surrounding Highlands landscape.

Now, with the course fully established and ready for its complete debut, tee times from May 15 onwards are available to book. Stay-and-play packages are also available, offering the opportunity to stay on property at one of Cabot Highlands' well-appointed cottages, and play both Old Petty and Castle Stuart.

Designed by renowned architect Tom Doak alongside associate Clyde Johnson, Old Petty sits adjacent to the historic Old Petty Church and enjoys sweeping views across the Moray Firth, with sightlines to the 400-year-old Castle Stuart from 13 of its 18 holes. The routing embraces the natural drama of the site, featuring coastline vistas on the 10th, a thrilling short par-3 17th, and a memorable return to the Moray Firth on the 14th, with opening and closing holes that criss-cross near the clubhouse to create a compelling sense of theatre.

Prior to its official grand opening, Old Petty has earned significant recognition. In a remarkable achievement for a course still in preview phase, it debuted at No. 34 in Golf World’s Scotland Top 100 rankings. The title noted that the layout has the potential to rise into Scotland’s top 20 courses, underlining the immediate impact and long-term promise of the design.

"The response during preview play exceeded our expectations," said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and co-founder of Cabot. "Old Petty was designed to work in harmony with this extraordinary landscape, and seeing golfers embrace it so enthusiastically is deeply rewarding. We look forward to welcoming players from around the world for its grand opening this May."

The official launch of Old Petty marks a significant new chapter for Cabot Highlands, further strengthening its position as one of the premier golf destinations in Scotland and globally.

For tee times, packages and further information, please visit: www.cabothighlands.com.