GB&I Golf Course Reviews - Q for Queens Course, Gleneagles

Queens Course, Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder, Perthsire, ScotlandPH3 1NF Originally a nine hole course the James Braid Queens Course opened in 1919. Later being extended to a full 18 holes in 1925. Often regraded as the little sister to the Kings and the newer PGA Centenary courses. Shorter in length than its big brothers, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security by this par 68 course. It packs a punch with its receptive fairways and great quality greens. Even in the wettest Perthshire weather, those greens seem to hold up well.

Intertwining the courses around each other weaving across the prettiest tamed but still remarkably rugged and colourful moorland. Trees are a nice features of the Queens Course, drawing the eye up as well as forward to maximise the whole of the landscape.

In 2017 course realignment bought it back to the the original Braid design. The course had gone through a series of renovations to suit the time which meant some bunkers were lost into the rough. Using old imagery the original design was reinstated calling for 89 bunkers being re-built and some drainage work undertaken.

I recall the 13th, a pretty par 3 with sculptured fairways around heather and water in play. Offset by the backdrop of tall trees looming in the distance. Quite an intimidating hole despite its relative short length of only 129/140 yards.

I recall playing Queens and getting to a cross roads where the paths crossed over and it struck me how lost I could get without good signage!

Above is a copy from a painting by Graeme Baxter The closing hole, aptly called ‘Queen’s Hame’ does entice you across the water to an inviting, reasonably wide fairway, before it softly bends left to the green insight. It has to be said this is one of the most welcoming closing holes. Not least because of the Dormy House looming ever present on the left as you putt out.

The Dormy House has been designed as one huge space, cleverly split up into little nooks for the feeling of intimacy. An intimidating fire pit takes centre stage as you gravitate towards its heat after your round of golf. A bit more than ‘golf club food’ was welcome after playing the Queens.

The onsite hotel was refurbished in 2016. This 232 bedroom hotel wraps itself around a central courtyard entrance with its grey, almost gothic in style, granite arms outstretched to envelop you into its warmth. A lovely bar and plenty of food choices are available, so you’ll be spoilt for choice as you ponder the 'what ifs’ of your round on the Queens Course