Royal Dornoch’s New Clubhouse Nears Completion – Members Invited to Share Memories
As construction continues on a £13.9 million new clubhouse at Royal Dornoch Golf Club, the club has launched an appeal to members and visitors to share memories and old photographs of the existing building ahead of its planned farewell later this year.
The iconic Highland club, consistently ranked among the world’s finest, confirmed that its current clubhouse, in use since 1909, will be officially retired following the club’s annual prize-giving event on Saturday, 29 November 2025.
The move to the new facility is scheduled to take place in early December.
A New Era Begins at One of Golf’s Most Historic Venues
The three-storey replacement building, which overlooks the first tee and 18th green of the Championship Course, is now taking shape and on course for a soft opening by year-end, according to General Manager Neil Hampton.
Hampton said:
“Plans to enable a smooth transition have been in the pipeline for some time, with the keys to the new clubhouse likely to be handed over by Morrisons Construction around the end of August.”
“With December being one of our quieter months, the Council of Management felt it was the right time to complete the move without impacting our international visitor experience.”
Celebrating 115 Years of Golfing History
The existing clubhouse, which cost £1600 to build, replaced the original structure and was officially opened on 3 July 1909 in the presence of Andrew Carnegie, then the world’s richest man, and his wife Louise.
Over the years, it has hosted generations of golfers and countless social occasions, many involving Royal Dornoch’s illustrious list of visitors and honorary members.
“While the sense of anticipation has been growing as we’ve watched the new clubhouse take shape, we know members and visitors will have fond memories of the current building,” Hampton said.
“That’s why we’re asking everyone to share their stories and photographs to preserve this history for future generations.”
The appeal is part of the club’s commitment to honouring its traditions, which include links to golf legends such as Old Tom Morris, Donald Ross, and honorary members Tom Watson and Ben Crenshaw.
Transition Timeline and Continued Access
The club has confirmed that member access to locker rooms and toilets will continue during the two-week relocation period, beginning 1 December.
The official opening of the new clubhouse is scheduled for 2026, following the demolition of the existing structure, which is expected to begin in February.
“It was felt the prize-giving would be the appropriate occasion to bid farewell to a building that’s served us for nearly 120 years,” said Hampton.
“Once the move is complete, we’ll have no physical reminder of the old clubhouse, so we hope people will help us build a digital archive of stories and photos that reflect the character and history of Royal Dornoch.”
Share Your Royal Dornoch Memories
Anyone with old photographs or personal stories linked to the clubhouse is encouraged to contribute to the club’s archive by emailing rdgc@royaldornoch.com.
