Kingarrock Hickory Golf Course

Notable Observations

• Detailed Biodiversity Monitoring The course works with local ecologist Les Hatton of Eden Ecology on habitat and species surveys, including meadow and bird surveys that are regularly monitored. Recent surveys and a previous Bioblitz have identified 132 species, including 22 protected or notable species recorded on the site in 2025.
• Restoring Species-Rich Grasslands Rough grasslands are actively managed to encourage wildflowers, including the use of Yellow Rattle to naturally thin dominant grasses and create a more diverse sward. Seed is harvested and distributed using the Green Hay method, with Yellow Rattle now widespread across areas supporting wildflowers and pollinating insects; Hebridean sheep are also used to graze rough areas.
• Supporting Tree Sparrows More than 30 nest boxes have been installed specifically to support breeding Tree Sparrows, a red-listed species due to population decline. The boxes are grouped to reflect the birds' communal behaviour and positioned alongside wildflower areas that provide seeds and small insects.
• Pesticide-Free Course Management Turf health is managed entirely without pesticides or herbicides, using practices such as hand weeding, scarifying, adjusting cutting heights and maintaining sharp mowing blades. Turf issues are monitored for early signs, but no curative chemical treatments are undertaken.
• No Artificial Irrigation The course operates without an irrigation system, relying solely on natural rainfall and surface water from the surrounding catchment. Drought-tolerant turf species and extensive rough grasslands help retain natural water flows, with playing surfaces observed in very good condition during the summer verification visit.
• Creative Reuse of Materials Discarded fence posts and coastal erosion fencing from St Andrews Links and North Berwick Golf Club have been reused as tree guards, avoiding the need to purchase new materials. Green waste is also reused on site, fertiliser bags are repurposed for plant sales, and donated hickory clubs are refurbished for further use.
• Preserving a Unique Golfing Heritage The course was reinstated to its original 1920s layout in 2008 within the historic Hill of Tarvit designed landscape and is managed to remain as authentic as possible to its original design and cultural ethos. The Foresters Cottage houses hickory memorabilia, course information and material telling the story of this distinctive golfing heritage.
• Connecting Golf, Nature and Education The course provides access for local primary schools and greenkeeping students from Elmwood College, alongside engagement with golfing and environmental organisations. Visitors can also access walking routes linked to public paths, with opportunities for horse riding, cycling and birdwatching across the wider estate.

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“Kingarrock Hickory Golf continues to be an exemplar of sustainable golf management, utilising traditional turf and ecological management techniques in keeping with the ethos of the 1920s original course. They provide a truly unique visitor golfing experience, embracing the history and culture of a bygone era on the grounds of the Hill of Tarvit Mansion House. All within a stunning natural setting with wildlife in abundance. Greenkeeper Owen Browne should be commended for his expertise, enthusiasm and passion for sustainability, producing a biodiversity-rich, quality course without an irrigation system or the use of chemicals. The NTS drive to further raise awareness of Kingarrock will hopefully reach its aim for this “Hidden Gem” to become less “hidden” and more popular for local and international visitors.”

Carolyn Hedley (GEO accredited independent verifier)