Golf course development might not have the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, but it knows a thing or two about building anticipation. Think of it like a movie premiere—today, the red carpet is rolled out in Scotland.
Welcome to Old Petty, the brand-new second course at Cabot Highlands (formerly Castle Stuart), which officially opened its fairways to the public on Friday. This is the kind of news that gets every golfer's heart racing, especially if you love a firm, fast links experience.
The story behind this course is one of transformation. When Cabot took over Castle Stuart in 2022, the vision was clear: create a world-class luxury golf destination. Enter legendary architect Tom Doak and his trusted associate, Clyde Johnson. They didn't just design a course; they sculpted a masterpiece across the rugged, rumpled terrain beside the stunning Moray Firth. The routing dances around tidal inlets and pays homage to the 400-year-old Castle Stuart, offering a round that feels both timeless and fresh.
Speaking of history, the course takes its name from Old Petty Church, a quiet sentinel that watches over the 2nd hole. But the real showstoppers are the coastal vistas. They appear and disappear throughout the round, teasing you from behind dunes like a secret you're only meant to catch in glimpses. It's a metaphor for the course itself, which offered limited preview play last year—a sneak peek designed to leave you wanting more.
For Cabot, this opening is a major milestone. The resort already boasts Castle Stuart, designed by Gil Hanse and the late Mark Parsinen, which ranks among GOLF's Top 100 Courses in the World. Old Petty shares that same firm-and-fast DNA, but make no mistake—these two layouts are far from identical twins. "It was important to build something that would fit naturally with the great courses in the area while still having its own identity," Doak said.
With the 2026 golf season just getting into swing, the timing couldn't be better. And the location? It sits right at the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, making it the perfect starting point for your next links adventure. Whether you're chasing history or just a great round, Old Petty is ready to play.