Nestled in the west side of South Uist, on the machair around the site of the South Uist Games, Askernish Golf Course stands as a true testament to heritage, challenge, and community spirit.

This course is a bit of a legend. It was rediscovered after being lost to time, yet still alive in stories and the land itself. Originally crafted by the legendary golfer and course architect Old Tom Morris, Askernish is like a living museum of golf. Local advocate and current Captain of Askernish Golf Club, Martin Jacobs describes the journey as nothing short of extraordinary: from obscurity to becoming a vibrant, welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.

Here’s the story as Martin told us: ‘the course was almost lost, but the locals knew it was there. A few players kept bits and pieces of it alive, maybe six or nine holes and then the course was rediscovered when an golf course architect Gordon Irvine visited  South Uist on a fishing trip and then helped piece it all back together again.’

Today, the team has carefully laid out the course to mirror Old Tom Morris’s original design. It’s been open for over twenty years and offers a proper challenge steeped in history and natural beauty. That challenge can really be felt with that Atlantic breeze, testing even the best of golfers.

‘The course’s layout is a thing of beauty, the views are unbelievable.

Folks from the States say it’s one of the best golf courses in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The first six holes give you a real taste of what’s to come — a good challenge without having to play all 18 in one go, perfect for newcomers or a quick round.’

Askernish isn’t just for the serious shot-makers. It’s evolving into a community hub that welcomes everyone, no matter your skill level. The ‘Shed,’ a cozy indoor space, lets you practice and play all year round. 

‘It has an indoor simulator. So during the winter you can come and play golf inside or you can use it to improve your golf game by practicing various aspects of your game. There’s a netted driving area so you don’t have to use a simulator. We used it over the winter for the open days that we’ve had.’

Recent open days during those chilly months have been a roaring success, and with more events planned, locals and visitors are invited to come see what it’s all about.

Membership is a lively mix — locals from South Uist and beyond, plus members from mainland Scotland, England, and even across the Atlantic. Currently, there are about 120 members worldwide, with roughly 20 playing regularly. Martin emphasises the importance of involving more locals, women, and juniors. Initiatives like new membership cycles in line with the Scottish Golf, and special offers for locals make it easy for everyone to pick up a club and give it a go.

And don’t worry if you’re new to the game — clubs are available for hire, and the team is happy to help beginners get started.’

No fancy gear required; just bring your interest, turn up and the club will take care of the rest.

Martin muses about the fact that people might have a particular impression of a Golf Club.

I think there’s a lot of people out there who have no idea what Askernish Golf Club is. They might think it’s just for posh people or, you know, middle class, middle aged men who play golf on a Sunday. And, it isn’t that. It is open to everyone. And you don’t have to have specialised equipment or daft clothes. Just come along, see it and use the facility. 

The club’s membership options are flexible — from full memberships to junior and life memberships, which are a simple one-time fee for lifetime access. It’s not just a middle-aged men’s Sunday tradition anymore; golf at Askernish is for everyone.

Martin says: ‘Golf isn’t just about the Sunday gear and middling scores — it’s about community, fun, and sharing the land’s natural beauty.’

‘Come along, have a chat, take a walk, or even give the simulator a try,’ 

Askernish is also building strong ties with other Hebrides courses, with reciprocal tee times and growing partnerships, making the region a real hub for Scottish golf.

Looking to the future, the goal is simple: open those gates wider, make golf accessible and fun for all ages, and preserve this remarkable piece of golfing history. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about what the fuss is all about, Askernish invites you in. As Martin puts it, ‘If you’ve got an interest or even just want to see what golf’s about, come and see us. Everyone’s welcome.’

‘Askernish is a massive resource to the community. As well as our visitors from all over the world, we also want to invite the locals who just want to have a, you know, a bash around the golf course for a couple of hours.’

To see what’s happening at Askernish Golf Club or become a member, check out their website here.