The 1457 Podcast

The final episode in our current 1457 Podcast series is one not to miss. We're joined by Stuart McColm, Vice-President of Golf Development at Cabot, for a fascinating conversation that takes us deep into the thinking behind the Old Petty course at Cabot Highlands. Stuart shares brilliant insight into Cabot's course design philosophy, the vision for Old Petty, and how it will sit alongside Castle Stuart. He also reflects on a remarkable journey in the game... from his early days in greenkeeping to earning a place on the Old Course cutting squad at St Andrews. With over 35 years in golf, Stuart offers a rare perspective on what it takes to bring world-class courses to life. He also speaks warmly about the late Mark Parsinen, whose vision and influence helped shape both Castle Stuart and Kingsbarns, and whose legacy continues to inspire. A brilliant listen to round off the series.

In our latest podcast, we sit down with David Scott, General Manager at Dumbarnie Golf Links, for a fascinating and wide-ranging conversation. David shares what makes the Dumbarnie experience so special, how he built a first-class team, and the journey that's taken him to the top of Scottish golf. From his early days at Rosemount and Kingsbarns to looking after The Duke's, and the unexpected call from Herb Kohler that changed everything, it's a story of hard work, listening, and finding your path. Recently appointed Captain of the PGA (2025/26) and Honorary Professional at The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, David reflects on a career that has seen him become one of the game's leading lights. Along the way, we also hear about his passion for music (yes, the saxophone makes an appearance), lockdown tunes, and his involvement in initiatives like the Caddie School for Soldiers. A brilliant listen.

What makes golf truly fun? In this episode, Malcolm and Dave explore the joy of the game in Scotland, where character, creativity, and memorable moments often matter more than scorecards. Using Today's Golfer's Top 100 Fun Golf Courses in Great Britain & Ireland , compiled by Chris Bertram, they shine a light on the courses that deliver pure enjoyment, quirky holes, stunning settings, and a sense of adventure you don't always find on championship layouts. If you believe golf should make you smile as much as it challenges you, this one's for you.

Step inside one of Scotland's great links destinations as we sit down with Alasdair Good, Head Professional at Gullane Golf Club . In this episode, Alasdair shares his journey through the game and offers a behind-the-scenes look at life at Gullane... from delivering a truly world-class golfing experience to what makes links golf on Scotland's Golf Coast so special. We also explore his outstanding Wee Wonders programme, a grassroots initiative that has helped introduce tens of thousands of young golfers across the UK and Ireland to the game. Its impact is remarkable with alumni including Major champions and Ryder Cup stars such as Matt Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood , Tyrrell Hatton and Robert MacIntyre . A conversation about passion, player development, and the enduring appeal of links golf at one of Scotland's most iconic venues.

In our latest 1457 Podcast, Malcolm, Dave and Ross dive into the newly updated Top100 Golf Courses rankings for Edinburgh and the Lothians. Focusing on the top 20, they shine a light on some of the region's less well-known gems while exploring a growing trend... blending iconic "trophy" courses with more affordable, accessible layouts to create the ultimate golf trip. A must-listen for anyone planning their next visit.

In our latest episode, the guys are joined by Greg McCrae, the driving force behind the brilliant Golf Arran Instagram account. Chatting from his home on the Isle of Arran, Greg shares what makes life and golf on Scotland's west coast so special. From the island's unique collection of courses to the slower pace of life and strong sense of community, it's a conversation that captures the true spirit of Arran both on and off the fairways. Greg's passion for the island shines through, and his work on @golfarran has become a genuine showcase for Arran as a must-visit golf destination. Enjoy the episode and follow Greg on Instagram to see more of the island he's proud to call home.

In the latest episode of the 1457 Podcast, the guys welcome back special guest Neil Hampton , General Manager of Royal Dornoch Golf Club . Neil shares fascinating insights into the club's exciting future plans, including the construction of a third course, redevelopment of the Struie Course, and other developments at one of the world's most revered golfing destinations. It's a superb conversation with one of the most respected club managers in the game, offering a rare look behind the scenes at the future of Royal Dornoch.

Halfway houses — an essential part of the golfing experience or an unnecessary distraction? In our latest podcast, Malcolm, Dave and Ross dive into one of golf's most debated traditions. From Scotland's best-known halfway houses to less well known gems you might never have noticed, they share stories, opinions and a few strong views along the way. Do they enhance the round… or interrupt the rhythm of the game? Listen now and decide where you stand.

Two of Scotland's greatest gifts to the world… In our latest podcast episode, the team sit down with Gordon Bell to explore the natural bond between golf and whisky. As a Master of Blending, brand ambassador and mentor at Johnnie Walker , Gordon has travelled the globe sharing Scotland's national drink, and along the way, experienced some of the world's finest courses through the unique connection between fairways and fine drams. An accomplished amateur golfer, Gordon is proud to call Gullane Golf Club , Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society and Boat of Garten Golf Club home clubs. It's a fascinating conversation blending craftsmanship, camaraderie and the global reach of Scotland's heritage. Listen now and discover how golf and whisky continue to shape friendships and stories around the world.

Scottish rugby royalty Gavin and Scott Hastings join the 1457 Podcast for a warm, wide-ranging conversation that blends sport, golf and nostalgia. The brothers reminisce about unforgettable childhood rounds across the Scottish Highlands, from Boat of Garten and Nether Bridge to Grantown on Spey and Pitlochry, before bringing the story up to the present day as members in East Lothian, sharing stories that capture the spirit of the game and the places that shaped them. They also reflect on their charity work, and just how fortunate they feel to have played so many memorable charity days on some wonderful courses. A relaxed, entertaining listen with two true Scottish sporting icons.

Winter golf in Scotland isn't a pause button... it's a different kind of pleasure. In the latest episode of the 1457 Podcast, Malcolm, Dave and Ross chat all things winter golf: shorter days, crisp air, quieter fairways and why there are still plenty of reasons to keep your swing going right through the off-season. From staying sharp to enjoying the game at a slower, more atmospheric pace, it's a timely reminder that golf doesn't stop when the clocks change.

After a long hiatus, The 1457 Podcast is back. Malcolm, Dave and Ross catch up on a busy year, sharing reflections on golf, work and everything else that shaped their 2025. A relaxed, honest return as the conversation picks up where it left off.

In the final episode of season 3 the guys take a deep dive into Scotland's 2nd courses. Great courses that sometimes can lie in the shadow of their more well known sibling. We hope you enjoy and we'll be back in May for season 4. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

As prices around the famous links of Scotland grow due to demand, we look at the many affordable options that can be found around the country. On this podcast we dive into the Aberdeen and Ayrshire regions to see what they have to offer the budget concious golf trip. We hope you enjoy. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

Dougie Donnelly, one of Scotland's most successful and best loved broadcasters, has spent over 32 years with the BBC as a presenter on Grandstand and Sportscene. Covering Golf's major championships & Ryder Cups. We absolutely loved chatting with Dougie on his career, his book and love for golf in Scotland. We hope you enjoy. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

We're joined this week by one of Scotland's most respected and renowned golf journalists, Martin Dempster. We take a dive into Martin's new book, The Art of Scottish Golf, and discuss all things golf in Scotland. Martin chats of his fondness of some of the golf courses not usually found on the typical bucket list. We hope you enjoy. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

In this weeks episode we are joined by Neil Hampton, General manager of Royal Dornoch, one of the best courses in the world. The boys take a deep dive into the club and we hear Neil's thoughts on the course and the Highlands for golf and travel. This was a fun one. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

David Harris is the founder and company director of Bonnie Wee Golf who organise exclusive luxury golf trips to the best courses in Scotland and Ireland. David's love affair with the game began at a young age, growing up playing and caddying at Royal Aberdeen. His deep-rooted connection to the game and Scotland's golfing heritage inspired him to create Bonnie Wee Golf, where he could share his enthusiasm with fellow golfers from around the globe. We hope you enjoy the insight on this episode. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

It's been a bit of a hiatus but we're back with a new season of The 1457 Podcast. Bringing you plenty of insight on where to play, stay and travel in Scotland Where Golf Began. Enjoy, it's great to be back. Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com

Time to find out Scotland's ultimate front 9. We asked you across social media to give your thoughts on the best holes in Scotland. Have a listen, did we get it right? Website Youtube Twitter Facebook Instagram Email:Info@Scotlandwheregolfbegan.com