Gourock at Gourock Golf Club

Gourock Golf Club sits on elevated moorland above the town of Gourock on the Firth of Clyde, approximately thirty miles west of Glasgow. The course occupies a hillside site that provides expansive views across the Clyde estuary toward the mountains of Argyll and the Isle of Arran. James Braid designed the original layout, with later modifications by C. K. Cotton, creating a parkland-moorland hybrid that takes advantage of the natural contours and the prevailing winds from the water.

The routing works across sloping terrain that demands thoughtful club selection and course management. Several holes play along the hillside with pronounced elevation changes, while others move across the slope, creating uneven lies and testing a player's ability to adjust stance and swing. The exposed position means wind is a frequent factor, particularly on the higher holes where the Clyde's maritime weather can shift conditions quickly throughout a round.

The course reflects the practical design sensibilities of its era, with straightforward holes that reward accurate striking rather than relying on artificial hazards or excessive length. Braid's influence shows in the strategic bunkering and green complexes that require players to think ahead rather than simply overpower the layout. The club has served the local golfing community for over a century, maintaining its character as a traditional Scottish members' club while welcoming visitors who appreciate moorland golf with genuine coastal views.