With so much preview content already swirling around this year’s Open at Royal Portrush, we decided to take a different approach.
In this episode, we trade analysis for reflection, sharing personal memories of The Open and what makes Royal Portrush and the surrounding area such a special place.
From the storied Dunluce Links to our favorite spots nearby, we revisit the experiences that have stayed with us and explore why The Open remains simply without equal.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to Royal Portrush
9 Things to See Near Royal Portrush
Book Mentioned in Episode - The Long Golden Afternoon by Stephen Proctor
In this episode, we’re joined for the first time by our colleague—and fellow links golf enthusiast—Mike Walters.
Together, we share what draws us to the links game year after year, and why it continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of so many H&B Members.
From memorable rounds to the unique challenges and charms of golf along the seaside, this conversation blends personal stories with the joy of the game in its purest form.
Have a question or story of your own to share? Record a message at haversham.com/podcast and you might hear it featured in a future episode.
When most travelers picture golf across the pond, they imagine long summer days and busy clubhouses. But there’s another window that’s steadily gaining popularity among seasoned H&B Members and golf travelers: the shoulder season.
In this episode, D.J. and Connor unpack the growing appeal of spring and fall travel to the UK and Ireland. From greater access to marquee tee times and accommodations, to the warmth of the hospitality, there’s a compelling case to be made for stepping outside the summer rush.
Considering a trip of your own? Or already a believer in the shoulder season? We’d love to hear from you. Record your message here.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to Shoulder Season Golf Trips Across the Pond
In this debut episode of our Just Returned series, we’re joined by longtime H&B Member, Dan Wood.
Dan hails from Greenville, South Carolina and is a member of the Currahee Club in Northeast Georgia.
From recent highlights in Ireland to lessons learned over the course of three Expeditions, Dan shares a wealth of insight and standout moments—both on and off the course.
Have a question about golf travel—or a story of your own to share? Record your message at haversham.com/podcast and you may hear it featured in a future episode.
About H&B
Haversham & Baker Expeditions is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Quick heads-up: The first version of this episode had the audio from Part 1 instead of Part 2 (our bad!). It's been fixed, so without further ado, here is the real Part 2.
In the second half of this two-part series, Connor & D.J. continue the conversation with five more essential questions every traveler–especially group captains–should ask before selecting a golf travel company. From understanding what “custom” really means to ensuring your time off the course is just as memorable as your time on it, these final questions are designed to help you make an informed decision and keep your trip in the fairway.
Additional Resources
10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour Company
The best golf trips start with the right questions. In this two-part episode, we cover five 10 questions that will help you choose the right golf tour company and set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Additional Resources
10 Questions to Ask Your Golf Tour Company
In this episode, Connor quizzes D.J. on his recent travels through Scotland and Ireland. Along the way, they explore new discoveries, revisit a few longtime favorites, and reflect on what continues to make golf across the pond so special.
From The Highlands to Killarney, the journey was a great reminder that no matter how much you've seen across the pond, there's always something new to discover.
Additional Resources
Scottish Golf Tourism Week Recap
In this episode of our Legendary Links series, we’re joined by Colin Sinclair, Secretary of Royal St. George’s Golf Club.
From its storied Open Championship legacy to the debut of the exciting Hagen 54 event, Colin offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of England’s most iconic clubs.
We also explore why the Channel Coast deserves far more attention from golf travelers seeking authentic links, rich tradition, and unforgettable experiences.
Additional Resources
7 Things to See at Royal St. George's Golf Club
We’ve covered the topic of securing Old Course at St. Andrews tee times before, but a lot has changed in recent years.
In this episode, we revisit the four ways to book a round at St. Andrews, break down how the process has evolved, and discuss how The Open in 2027 will impact availability in the coming years.
If a golf trip to St. Andrews is on your radar, here’s what you need to know now.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to Old Course at St. Andrews Tee Times
Planning a golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or beyond? Even with a golf travel company handling the details, there are still plenty of decisions, deadlines, and logistics to keep track of—both before and during your trip.
In this episode, Connor & D.J. share practical tips and insights to help you stay organized, avoid last-minute surprises, and keep your trip in the fairway.
About H&B
Haversham & Baker Expeditions is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Our Legendary Links series returns with a look at a course that few have heard of and even fewer have played. But everything about Cruit Island is the definition of Legendary.
Additional Resources
During the recent PGA Show in Orlando, Connor and D.J. sat down with a dozen of our golf and accommodation partners across the pond to hear what’s on the horizon for the 2025 golf travel season.
From the Birthplace of The Open to the host of this year’s championship, this episode offers an insider’s view of what’s new and exciting for the year ahead.
In This Episode
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
In recent years, we've noticed a small yet growing interest in shorter itineraries that still deliver an exceptional Golf and the Good Life experience.
These short-stay trips—typically 4-5 nights with a few world-class courses and the ease of a single-location itinerary—are in demand for working professionals and time-strapped travelers who can’t spare an entire week.
In this episode, Connor and D.J. share the top destinations for shorter trips, along with essential tips to make every moment count.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to Short Stay Golf Trips Overseas
Explore Dublin Golf Trips with H&B
Edinburgh & East Lothian Podcast
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Join Connor and D.J. as they chat with Jeremy Matte, Director of Golf & Operations at Cabot Highlands, about the arrival of Old Petty, the legacy of Castle Stuart, and the ongoing evolution of this must-visit golf destination in the Scottish Highlands.
Additional Resources
7 Things to See at Cabot Highlands
Highlands of Scotland Golf Packages
The Highlands of Scotland Off the Beaten Path
About Haversham & Baker Expeditions
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
This episode highlights the top destinations for 2026 golf trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England. You'll also learn some key dates and essential tips to help you navigate the planning process.
If a golf trip across the pond is on your radar for 2026, your brief window of opportunity is here.
Additional Resources
The Complete Guide to 2026 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond
H&B Yardage Book – In-depth guides covering all aspects of golf travel across the pond.
About Haversham & Baker
H&B is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.
Join Connor & D.J. as they venture off the well worn path – literally – to share some great road trips to pair with golf in Scotland and Ireland.
Additional Resources
Conor Pass & Slea Head Drive – Ireland's Roads Less Traveled
Loop Head Peninsula – Ireland's Roads Less Traveled
Essential Tips for Self-Drive Golf Trips
In this episode, Connor & D.J. share some news from St. Andrews and recap their annual journeys to Scotland and Ireland.
From Dornoch to Portrush, they share the tips, insights, and new discoveries made along the way.
Mentioned in this Episode
-The Balmoral Edinburgh
-Curran Gate Portrush
-Rosslyn Chapel
-Dunrobin Castle
-Giant's Causeway
Considering a golf trip that spans both Scotland and Ireland?
While combining these iconic destinations isn’t the ideal choice for everyone, it’s an itinerary that's growing in popularity—and it’s achievable with the right approach.
In this episode, Connor & D.J. discuss the factors to consider when planning such a journey, from time and travel logistics to selecting the best regions for a combined Scotland & Ireland itinerary.
Additional Resources
Scotland & Ireland: How to Play Both Countries in a Combined Golf Trip
In follow-up to our recent episode on Cruden Bay Golf Club, we're back with an in-depth look at the broader Aberdeen area.
Come explore this often overlooked region that's home to plenty of great golf and interesting sites.
It also offers a far more flexible planning schedule compared to other regions for golf in Scotland.
For more insight on the Aberdeen area, tune-in to our last episode on Cruden Bay with Ru Macdonald.
Additional Resources
Mentioned in this Episode
Our Legendary Links series returns with a visit to Cruden Bay Golf Club, plus the show's first guest.
Connor & D.J. were joined by lifelong Cruden Bay member, Ru Macdonald, for an in-depth look at his beloved club, which has found a comfortable place among the top 100 golf courses in the world.
Additional Resources
– 7 Things to See at Cruden Bay Golf Club
– Aberdeen Golf Off the Beaten Path
Mentioned in this Episode
Golf
– Trump International Golf Links, Scotland
Good Life
