Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Silverburn serves as the second eighteen at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, complementing the championship Balgownie Links on the club's extensive property north of Aberdeen. Designed by Archie Simpson and opened in 1983, the course replaced an earlier nine-hole layout that dated to the 1890s. Simpson, who also contributed to the design of Balgownie's later holes, created a shorter but characterful test that plays across gently rolling terrain slightly inland from the dramatic dunesland of its famous neighbor. The layout measures around 4,000 yards from the back tees, making it more accessible for members' daily play while still presenting strategic interest. The course occupies land that transitions from coastal heath to parkland character, with heather, gorse, and stands of mature trees framing many holes. The routing takes advantage of natural contours and features several elevated tees and greens that offer views across the Aberdeenshire countryside. While lacking the severe dune formations and coastal exposure of Balgownie, Silverburn provides variety through its use of the landscape and demands accuracy over length. The greens are typically firm and subtly contoured, rewarding thoughtful approach play. Silverburn functions primarily as the members' course at Royal Aberdeen, allowing regular play without the pressure of maintaining championship conditions year-round. It also serves as a qualifying course when major events come to Balgownie. The club's membership includes a strong contingent of local golfers who value the traditional links culture and the opportunity to play both courses regularly throughout the season.