7.6

Good

Overall Rating for Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa

Staff

8.4

Location

8.8

Room comfort

8.6

Facilities

8.0

Quality of bars & restaurants

7.4

Value for money

8.0

Reviews

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Excellent
Very good
Good
Average
Poor

8.0

Very Good

Rooms and facilities were in good order, clean and well looked after. The hotel staff were helpful and attentive. Food and catering arrangements were well organised and run.

Ian – Reviewed 28 Oct 2022

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyable stay at hotel. Minor hiccup when we couldn't get a bacon roll/coffee before our game as breakfast was finished and didn't open for lunch until 12 noon but that was quickly remedied.

Kate – Reviewed 21 Oct 2022

8.0

Very Good

Our package was for one night including dinner bed and breakfast with two rounds of golf. The value for money was excellent. Although the drinks were very expensive. The golf couse was outstanding a true test of golf over 6500 yards of the yellow tees.

Mike – Reviewed 25 Sep 2022

Excellent

Lovely stay. Well looked after.

Adam – Reviewed 29 Aug 2022

8.0

Very Good

Excellent hotel no issues at all, Staff very freindly.

David – Reviewed 28 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

Exterior of hotel is a bit run down but inside is nice with very comfy beds. The food was nice but the service was poor, very slow.

Nigel – Reviewed 15 Jul 2022

6.0

Good

Having stayed here on several occasions it was disappointing to find how tired the hotel is now looking.! Reception staff were very friendly and helpful however the restaurant was very understaffed and the majority of the staff in the restaurant especially at breakfast were not particularly interested in serving people and each morning of our stay had to wait along time to be attended to and served our food.

Darren – Reviewed 14 Jul 2022

Excellent

Very clean room and professional staff. Restaurant menu very limited

Susan – Reviewed 2 Jul 2022

6.0

Good

We were put into room 113 which must be one of the worst rooms in the hotel, it was on the basement floor which felt like you were in a ditch. Fortunately the Tv didn’t work and they couldn’t fix it so we asked to be moved to a different room. They moved us to room 413 a much better room with a nice view. Is it custom to put people on golf breaks in the cheapest rooms they have?

John – Reviewed 2 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

Room was very good. Food was ok. Bar prices are ridiculous. so much so, we got a taxi into Peebles and the price of our drink halved at least. Reasonable bar prices and we would have stayed in the hotel.

Gordon – Reviewed 30 Jun 2022

Excellent

Richard – Reviewed 22 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Good hotel with good onside facilities.very clean and friendly staff are very helpful. Food was ok for the deal we were on but wasn't worth anymore than that but was very fresh.

Christopher – Reviewed 15 Jun 2022

Excellent

Excellent hotel. Varied menu & food very good. Couldn,t fault anything

Les – Reviewed 13 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Hotel very nice right next to the golf course staff very friendly hotel clean, warm, and comfortable, only down side was the bar a bit pricey.

Roy – Reviewed 3 Jun 2022

2.0

Poor

Beds really small

Mark – Reviewed 26 May 2022

6.0

Good

Hotel and staff were up to a good standard. Reception staff were really helpful, bar staff were a bit understaffed. Prices were a bit steep for alcohol and every round seemed to be a different price.

Mark – Reviewed 25 May 2022

Excellent

Brilliant...... 1st class service, food and golf. Cameron and his staff made sure we had a great break... your a STAR

Christine – Reviewed 25 May 2022

Excellent

Great location.Staff were excellent,notably Cameron in the pro shop who went the extra mile to look after us. Food of a high quality. Bar service excellent.

David – Reviewed 22 May 2022

4.0

Average

Golf course was excellent apart from the greens wich were very very poor 👎spikes bar was open but did not serve beer had to go up stairs so no one used it

Mark – Reviewed 22 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

What a great place to stay in the Scottish Borders. Room was excellent and the food was amazing. Staff were very friendly and attentive - they were all good but special mention to a few - Cameron, Katie, Maadi & Sian.

Robert – Reviewed 16 May 2022

Excellent

Hotel very comfortable and staff very helpful and friendly

Pat – Reviewed 13 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

We stayed here for 1 night with dinner bed and breakfast, the hotel rooms were spotless and a good standard, we had a few drinks in the sports bar and watched some football. The prices of alcohol was slightly expensive but bearable. Dinner was really good, couldn't fault the food and the staff were great.

Brian – Reviewed 11 May 2022

Excellent

Excellent location. Staff were all very friendly and helpful and the facilities were second to none

Lorraine – Reviewed 1 May 2022

Excellent

Lovely hotel, all staff very polite and welcoming. Chris in golf shop very helpful

Stephen – Reviewed 26 Apr 2022

Excellent

Great staff,particularly Adam on reception and Chris on golf

Nicholas – Reviewed 25 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

Very welcoming and helpful staff. Clean and tidy hotel with quality food and service. Did not use any of the spa, gym, swimming facilities.

Kevin – Reviewed 21 Apr 2022

2.0

Poor

Not good would never go back

Paul – Reviewed 29 Mar 2022

Excellent

Hotel staff very helpful, large room but TV was not working and couldn’t be repaired that day. Evening meal choice was limited but most places are at the moment, buffet breakfast was great lots of options and tasty.

Martin – Reviewed 29 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Hotel was good but took 2 hours to serve evening meal on first night. Dinner food was good quality but small portions and repetitive on each night of hotel stay. We upgraded our hotel room at a cost of £50.00 per night Expensive as no real extras offered except super king bed and views onto golf course. Unable to use spa services as fully booked. Parts of hotel were dated. Spikes bar not staffed and lounge bar always full - not enough seats. Ideal location to visit Peebles 3 miles away.

Angela – Reviewed 25 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Excellent staff service from everyone we came into contact. From receptionist to golf pro, bar and restaurant staff, all were exceptionally helpful and friendly

Mike – Reviewed 9 Oct 2021

Excellent

The hotel was really nice , rooms were great , the food and bar were also excellent, staff very good aswell

Allan – Reviewed 5 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Good trip , can’t really fault hotel for anything other than silly wine prices! Food was good quality and just enough but more vegetables would have made it perfect. Staff were excellent , efficient and friendly.

Mike – Reviewed 18 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

Disappointing first night dinner but huge improvement the second night.Shortage of staff particularly at the bar.Only one of three open.

Brian – Reviewed 16 Sep 2021

2.0

Poor

The hotel needs an overhaul but after a tough time for the hospitality sector they can be forgiven

Andrew – Reviewed 14 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

Food excellent, service poor, staff problems. COURSE HORRENDOUS. 2 FOOT HIGH THICK ROUGH AT EDGE OF FAIRWAYS. WE LOST 15 BALLS, JUST ROLLING OFF FAIRWAY. GREENS UNPLAYABLE. No record of us needing buggy. They managed to find one just.

Peter – Reviewed 13 Sep 2021

4.0

Average

Hotel side of things great

Paul – Reviewed 11 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

The hotel was good, the staff were all very good and they tried their best to go the extra mile. The staff made up for the fact some areas of the hotel are looking a little tired.

Richard – Reviewed 24 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Nice hotel friendly staff and excellent food

Steven – Reviewed 22 Aug 2021

Excellent

Been before love the place staff are some of the best around….facilities were excellent and the food was fantastic

Vincent – Reviewed 16 Aug 2021

4.0

Average

Very average experience. The hotel is in an amazing location with breathtaking views however we felt very underwhelmed once in the hotel. The restaurant food was of good quality and some of the young serving staff were great and couldn't do enough for you, others however were terrible. Rude, grumpy and seemed put out and annoyed at any requests. It was also really disappointing that for lunch we could only choose a sandwich (nothing else from the menu) with a turn around time of 1.5 hours. Could be a fantastic hotel but severely lacking good management to correct the small errors mentioned above.

Matt – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the stay pity spike bar was never opened beer was good price breakfast very good staff very polite would book again

Anthony – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Staff lovely hotel in a nice setting food quite basic and very expensive ran out of a lot of things we asked for no cranberry juice no fruit cider etc

Lisa – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

Great

Stuart – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

Excellent

exellent

Richard – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

Excellent

Very comfortable room hotel seemed short of staff

James – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

Basic room,food nice but shortage of staff meant some bars were closed and lead to much longer waiting times.

Matt – Reviewed 22 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

It was nearly 15years since I last stayed at the hotel so I didn't know what to expect. The rooms was very clean and spacious and the staff were eager to help when required. Food,16 golfers all received starters, mains and deserts on a timely manner. Hotel still a good 7/10 but probably needs a little TLC.

Scott – Reviewed 22 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Paul – Reviewed 21 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Staff,location and food were good but the rooms are a little tired could do with an overhaul.

Alan – Reviewed 21 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The hotel was generally good, but it is in need of work doing on the exterior, which is very shabby in places. Rooms were excellent, as was dinner. The breakfast was very poor though, we had the hot buffet served by hotel staff which was very moderate, eg hard fried eggs, sausage like I have never tasted & would not like to taste again.

Norman – Reviewed 16 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

No room on arrival. Someone in our allocated room. People waiting for rooms for over an hour. Complete chaos and queue at reception. Sorted by manager eventually. Restaurant unorganised. We were lucky and were served well but tables on either side of us were forgotten about and had long wait for their main courses.

Joan – Reviewed 15 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The staff were under pressure and the level of service was poor. The facilities were generally good and start in the golf pro shop were very helpful

Les – Reviewed 14 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

David – Reviewed 11 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The hotel is looking a bit tired outside and in. Carpet a bit threadbare in room etc. Staff in restaurant were pleasant despite being busy. Dinner was OK and breakfast good. That said we got a good rate and I guess you get what you pay for.

Jonny – Reviewed 7 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

I am sorry for the staff who were very good, they are over work. Need more staff and the hotel requires upgrading.

Bob – Reviewed 6 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

3pm check in so attempted at 3.40pm to be told room not ready so had to wait a further 10 minutes until it was checked. Restaurant extremely busy at 8pm. 30 minute wait for drinks. Food good but portions very small. Booked breakfast in room for 8.45 as playing golf at 10 but by 9.30 it still hadn’t arrived. Called reception several times but no answer. Went to reception to see phone being ignored. Asked about breakfast to be told kitchen was very busy. Why offer this service if it cannot be delivered? Huge queue in restaurant, dirty tables, lots of upset golfers. Our breakfast was then sent to room by very stressed employee who was literally run off her feet! On departure was charged twice for drinks at dinner. Took till Monday afternoon for someone to answer at reception to deal with issue. Still not resolved! I do not recommend this hotel. Practically impossible to make contact with them! Shame when the place has so much potential!

Andrew – Reviewed 5 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

A fantastic setting for a hotel with beautiful views, however the hotel is tired looking both in and out and needs a complete refurbishment. It appears the hotel is run on a shoestring budget, there were 4 different cups for tea on the dining table, 4 different seats at the same table,1 small jug of milk for 4 people at breakfast time for tea, coffee, cereal etc. There was coffee and tea in the room, but, no milk and when requesting extra for anything it took a day and an age to receive it, sometimes you don’t even receive it. There was only 1 item of everything allowed at breakfast time, I.e. 1 sausage, 1 bacon etc., my friend requested an extra slice of bacon and was told he was being naughty for asking, however this was not in a friendly type manner, more of a you shouldn’t be asking type manner, the food however, was very good. Staff are predominantly young and although friendly when serving, require a management team to set some standards for high customer service, i.e. discipline, timely service and some urgency. We arrived on the Sat for 2 nights and no service ever came to the room to freshen up and make the beds or bring fresh towels, although we requested fresh towels at 4.30 on Sunday afternoon, we’re still waiting for them to arrive, poor service.

Maurice – Reviewed 3 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Good hotel, looks tired from outside but inside still high quality. Rooms comfortable. Bar prices expensive even for a hotel, take a taxi £8.50 into Peebles recommend A1 taxis 07761024333.

Chris – Reviewed 1 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

Very disappointing. Hotel in way understaffed, bar closes early, queues when eating. Food and rooms ok to be honest but it was hard work.

Mick – Reviewed 30 Jun 2021

8.0

Very Good

Room very good but bathroom needed a little work to bring it up to a good standard.

Paul – Reviewed 27 Jun 2021

Excellent

Superb overnight stay with dinner and breakfast

Vincent – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

Hotel and facilities where fantastic. Location of hotel was idealistic. Staff very helpful and pleasant, 3 course meal at dinner and full breakfast also exceeded expectation.

Ryan – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

Excellent

We were on a Bed breakfast and evening meal deal with two rounds of golf. When we arrived at check in are evening meal timne had not been arranged even though i had confirmation. the room was ready early, when we went to the room we found we had a twin and not a double, one member of staff that was outside the room at the time changed the beds from a twin into a double in 5 minutes. we went down to have some lunch but they were still cleaning the area and we couldn't go in, when we could go in they were only serving bacon rolls and soup. the evening meal was 3 courses and although the portions were small it was enough that i could eat all 3 courses. There was plenty of safety measures in place however you weren't allowed to use the lifts.

Nichola – Reviewed 25 Sep 2020

8.0

Very Good

Due to covid a bit different experience.Nice setting staff friendly and helpful.

Matt – Reviewed 25 Sep 2020

8.0

Very Good

Very good value for the money the course was in excellent condition for the time of year the only downside is the hotel was very expensive if you’re buying drinks or sandwiches we paid £46 for a round of sandwiches and coffee (4 of us ) apart from that excellent value for money and highly recommendable the food in was really good and the staff more than helpful we will definitely be booking again

Jim – Reviewed 30 Oct 2019

6.0

Good

Hotel was dated and needs upgraded, the room was nice but when we opened our windows they would not close and jammed open, appear to be twisted? restaurant at night was lovely but breakfast was very poor, no appliances for making toast for breakfast and food was average, there was toast made and in the hot food buffet but was not good.

George – Reviewed 16 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Accommodation very good and setting/location excellent. The hotel service was a little disjointed this time, probably because they were quite busy. Despite this we thoroughly enjoyed the stay.

Alan – Reviewed 13 Sep 2019

Excellent

Great time at the Cardrona. Everything was perfect and the professional couldn't have been more helpful. All staff and meals were fantastic. We will definitely be going back next year. Thanks again Your Golf Travel for a great golfing experience. Brian Smith

Brian – Reviewed 9 Sep 2019

Excellent

a good few days. Helpful and efficient staff

Sue – Reviewed 8 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

A gem of a find that was incredible value for money. The course was as you would expect for a Scottish golf course - long, well kept, punishing if you were off line but a very fair challenge. The staff were what made this trip exceptional however. Excellent customer service from desk, bar, wait and above all golf shop staff. David in the golf shop genuinely could not have done more for us and was an absolute credit to the place.

Lee – Reviewed 26 Aug 2019

6.0

Good

The service is awful. Students at the restaurant and the cleaning team stays less than 5 minutes in the room just to set up the bed. They don’t even change the glasses or empty properly the trash cans

Maria – Reviewed 20 Aug 2019

6.0

Good

Hotel needing a bit of upgrading ,particularly the public areas. There were problems with the breakfast catering ,or lack of it(blamed on a large party who had eaten prior to the other guests) Pretty area for walkers and golfers. Drinks expensive,usually guests receive a voucher or 20% off but not at the present time

Eric / Sandra – Reviewed 18 Aug 2019

2.0

Poor

Lift was not working (we were on the 4th floor), carpets in room starting to get threadbare, very warm in the room, no electric fan and windows won’t open, toilet was blocked, shower nice and spacious, building needs a good spruce up specially outside...crying out for a fresh lick of paint, breakfast new setup is terrible and disappointing as a result of cutbacks here and there, service is very slow although staff shown dedication to work and were helpful and friendly. I’ve stayed at Cardrona Hotel numerous times but the noticeable cutback and quality of breakfast made me feel not to go back ever again. However, the course is still as good and challenging as I’ve always known throughout all the time I’ve played it. I guess hotel is fine for bus load of foreign tourist as stopover but not for guests looking for enjoyable break.

Kristina – Reviewed 2 Aug 2019

Excellent

Anthony – Reviewed 27 Jul 2019

8.0

Very Good

The hotel was easy to find and a 10 minute drive from Peebles. Plenty of parking at the hotel and reception staff were very helpful on check in. Rooms were well presented with all mod cons. The restaurant was excellent and quality of food even better. The only grumble was that after golf we hit the spike bar, it was very small but prices were reasonable. A lovely stay at a hotel with reviews that lived up to expectations.

Antony – Reviewed 8 Jul 2019

8.0

Very Good

Nice enough room, food and drinks quite expensive

Liam – Reviewed 8 Jul 2019

Excellent

Very comfortable and roomy

Alastair – Reviewed 7 Jul 2019

Excellent

It’s our third time we have stayed here and can not fault it at all.we used the restaurant for dinner the breakfast food was very good.

Thomas – Reviewed 30 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

A comfortable hotel and the food was good including fresh orange juice at breakfast. The price of drinks was very high including ordinary diner wine at £50 per bottle.

Andrew – Reviewed 30 Jun 2019

8.0

Very Good

Very good value with the deal we had rooms were good and staff and restaurant were very good,

Derek – Reviewed 26 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

I have been to the hotel and this trip My brother-in-law and I both agreed that the hotel was looking tired and in need of a good facelift. There was also no coffee/tea making equipment in the rooms, which is allways an essential given. The food was excellent for each meal.

Richie – Reviewed 4 Jun 2019

Excellent

We stayed for 2 nights on a dinner bed and breakfast deal. Location is really nice next to River Tweed in a quiet Borders location but only 30-40 minutes to Edinburgh and The Bridge north. The hotel reception was welcoming on arrival and we had great 3rd floor rooms with a golf course view (highly recommended). The room was spacious and had a great view. Facilities were new and done to a high standard.The spa and pool were available to guests and also had sauna and steam rooms. All were excellent and staff were very helpful. The restaurant was comfortable and staff attentive. The food was excellent with a reasonable choice for all tastes.Wine list was extensive but bottle available for £22 was very good value. Played the excellent golf course during our stay.The staff in the golf shop could not have been more helpful and were friendly and welcoming. It is a long walk but lovely course surroundings and never far from river.This is an excellent hotel and covered all the bases. I would have no hesitation in going back and probably will next year.

Paul – Reviewed 19 May 2019

Excellent

See above

Peter – Reviewed 19 May 2019

8.0

Very Good

Really nice Hotel and staff very helpful in all matters. Some rooms experienced problems with the heating but staff sorted this promptly Unfortunately the Spikes bar was closed on both days we visited, which was a shame as its a great addition to golf deal. I will definitely return and so might others in group. Friendly hotel.

Jean – Reviewed 2 May 2019

Excellent

Beautiful hotel the evening meal was outstanding really very good staff extremely friendly and attentive highly commended

Cathy – Reviewed 20 Mar 2019

8.0

Very Good

Bev – Reviewed 13 Nov 2018

Excellent

Excellent hotel, apart from the spike bar (the only place with the Ryder cup on) closing at 4pm each day.

Ross – Reviewed 2 Oct 2018

Excellent

I am already a member of the Macdonald hotel club This is a lot better than most Staff Value for money And food and drink I liked it so much I joined the golf club

Walter – Reviewed 1 Oct 2018

Excellent

Fantastic course and accommodation and the views are to die for

Steve – Reviewed 25 Sep 2018

8.0

Very Good

Room was comfortable but felt that the bars were a bit limited in what they offered in terms of choice

Kristina – Reviewed 13 Sep 2018

Excellent

We had a great time at the Macdonald Cadrona Hotel and it was very easy to find indeed...no problems there at all. Our room was excellent with plenty of space and the room service was also very good. Breakfasts were delicious as was dinner but to have to pay extra for potatoes and veg was not so good. Prices of drinks were quite expensive but what you would expect for a hotel of that standard and unfortunately there was not much choice of beers. The golf course was in very good condition, although they were just starting to hollow tine greens, which will happen at every course this time of year. It’s a long course so I would say it would be quite difficult for higher handicappers like me. There are lots of bunkers too and the only fault I could bring up was the distance between tees...I would need a buggy next time. On the whole very good 9 out of 10.

Ray – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

We thought that the golf course at Macdonald Cardrona was an excellent design, set in the most glorious countryside, with houses only overlooking one hole. The views from the course were spectacular and at times we thought that we were playing in Canada! The only grouse we had was that all the greens had been top dressed which unfortunately made putting nearly impossible. The rooms in the hotel were more than adequate too, and the staff were excellent. I have to mention Bobby in the spike bar who was exceptionally helpful. We did have some issues with the dinner on the first night which were addressed by the operations manager immediately. I would not hesitate in visiting Macdonald Cardrona again, but would do so preferably when the greens were in good condition.

Harry – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

6.0

Good

After asking the other members of the party what they thought of the trip to Macdonald Cardrona, the answers came back very positively. On the plus side, the hotel was very comfortable and the food was of an excellent standard. I was given a double room to start with but this was immediately rectified by the attentive members of staff. My father and I, who were meant to be sharing, were actually given a double room each in the end. The price of beer was very good at £3.30p per pint which pleased most of the party of 44 thirsty men on the Sunday night! The big letdown was that we had booked tee times from 12:12pm on the Sunday and everyone got there at 11:30 ready to ease into things only to be told we were off at 11:40. BIG, BIG panic as everyone tried to sort clubs and trolleys out in a hurry! I had phoned the hotel to put out nearest the pin markers on four holes which was done ok on the Sunday but they forgot on the Monday. The course was very long and a bit tatty in places but this was probably due to the horrendous weather on the Sunday afternoon so this is not really a down. All in all, it was a very enjoyable weekend. The general consensus is that we would probably not visit Cardrona again, but simply because we have been there and done that now. I will definitely be using yourgolftravel.com again as the service provided was excellent.

David – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

Excellent

Macdonald Cardrona is situated in a beautiful location in the Tweed Valley. The golf course tracks up and down the valley with the river providing OOB on many holes. We played the day after a PGA Tartan Tour event and as such the course was in fine condition. The fairways were firm and are quite tight on a few holes and the greens are large and heavily contoured, rolling true. Overall we really enjoyed playing there. My highlight of the two rounds we played was making birdie on the par 5 12th, with a good drive and two good hybrids to the green, finished off with a 20 foot putt. The hotel was excellent. The staff were exceedingly friendly and the food was superb, although service, in the restaurant was slow at times. Our non-golfing wives rated the spa very highly too. We split two days golf with a trip to Edinburgh which made it more of mini holiday. It was our first trip into the Scottish Borders and we were all stunned by how magnificent the scenery is. We have used YGT previously and as before the arrangements were well organised and trouble free.  I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Cardrona or YGT to other golfers. We plan to repeat this trip in the future.

Keith – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

Golf Course – Peebles and Cardrona are both really good courses, both of different styles. Buggies are recommended for Cardrona as 2 of our group struggled with the length as it was quite long and also there are walks between some greens and tees.   Clubhouse/19th hole – The 19th hole at Peebles was 1st class and very welcoming indeed. Cardrona’s was nice too but you could tell was part of a hotel group – less personal but still good.   Hotel – The hotel at Macdonald Cardona is excellent, with good rooms and an evening meal that exceeded expectations. This was 1st class and all members of staff etc were very good.   Overall verdict – The feedback from my group was that they all really enjoyed this outing. The golf courses, hotel location and price were all good and they’d be more than happy to go again next year.

John – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

6.0

Good

The golf course at Macdonald Cardrona was rather hard for the club golfer, being a long course with long walks between green and tees too. The course was in good condition, however the design of course not so good. It’s set in the banks of River Tweed, yet it’s never in play and you don’t see river when playing course either. The 19th hole has a nice spikebar and snacks and beers are served at a reasonable price. The hotel was excellent, with very good food and good members of staff, even though the hotel was very busy. The resort boasts a lovely location which is also excellent for walking and cycling, as well as golf.

Norman – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

Excellent

This is the first time we have used Your Golf Travel for a golf holiday and it certainly won't be the last! Our trip to Macdonald Cardrona rates as one of the best golf breaks we’ve been on. We were lucky with the weather, the hotel was excellent and the golf course is of a really high quality. The staff at the hotel were very good too and nothing was a problem. We booked on a dinner bed and breakfast deal, and have to say the menus and food did not disappoint. We felt the beers were no dearer than most pubs, contrary to some previous reviews. The hotel is set in a very peaceful rural location with plenty of outdoor pursuits if you are into that sort of thing. I used the gym most mornings and the gym and equipment in it are excellent. We had a room facing the golf course which was spacious, very clean and comfortable. This was a first class golf holiday and it was also great value for what it cost.

Neil – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

8.0

Very Good

Just a quick note to thank you for the most fantastic 5 days. The hotel at Macdonald Cardrona was superb, the food was excellent and the staff service could not be faulted. All 3 courses we played were in excellent condition and the lads are even talking about going back to play Peebles and Roxbroughe. We were made most welcome and nothing too much trouble for all we met. I would like to comment on the service at Peebles. The lady on the bar served food and refreshments with a smile even though there were 40 hungry and thirsty golfers. I will no doubt use YGT’s services again and recommend you and your team to future captains of my club. The lads are still raving about the venue so once again thank you for your excellent service.

Thomas – Reviewed 9 Dec 2014

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6.8

Good

Overall Rating for All courses

Condition overall

6.6

Condition of greens

4.2

Speed of round

Slow About right Quick

Facilities

7.0

Value for money

6.6

Difficulty

Easy Average Hard

Reviews

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Excellent
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Good
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8.0

Very Good

Course had suffered heavy rain and we were fortunate to be allowed drive on buggies. Despite further rain the course dried out noticeably overnight and was ideal the second day. Greens were lovely and not too fast! The Golf Staff were very helpful.

Ian – Reviewed 28 Oct 2022

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed two good games of golf at Cardrona 1st day in sunshine and 2nd was a bit drizzly. It's a long course but there was no hold ups and we completed in 3.5 hours walking. For the time of year (October) we thought the course was excellent.

Kate – Reviewed 21 Oct 2022

8.0

Very Good

An outstanding championship course and a true test of golf.

Mike – Reviewed 25 Sep 2022

8.0

Very Good

Lovely course, great backdrop on every hole. nice staff. Club shop low on balls and had to pay to use the range, but other than that. Really enjoyed it. (A few long walks between holes so if you are low mobility grab a buggy)

Adam – Reviewed 29 Aug 2022

8.0

Very Good

Course overall is great only issue was the condition of the greens, they are really bad and it's like putting on the moon.

David – Reviewed 28 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

The only thing to let this course down we’re the greens, they are in terrible condition. The grass has lots of holes in it so many that you can’t avoid them when putting. I was told these will be gone by next year. I hope so because this lets a good course down.

Nigel – Reviewed 15 Jul 2022

Excellent

Course was in good condition except for the greens which were a disgrace and barely puttable!! We have never played on such poor greens,even winter greens would have been better!

Darren – Reviewed 14 Jul 2022

8.0

Very Good

Unfortunately the greens were terrible through no fault of their own but everything else was in pristine condition. We were told about the greens before we went out so that softened the blow.

Susan – Reviewed 2 Jul 2022

6.0

Good

We had a buggy for our 1st round, the course was long and directions from greens to the next tee were poor. The course was in good condition but the greens were the worst I have ever played on. I will not be going back.

John – Reviewed 2 Jul 2022

4.0

Average

The course has a lovely setting. Quite a long course with long distances between green and next tee. Completely ruined by the condition of the greens. Would not even call them greens. Terrible condition and spoiled what would otherwise have been a very enjoyable experience. To clarify, this complaint is not about one or two greens over the course. Every green on the course is in a terrible state. Its a shame but we will not be back.

Gordon – Reviewed 30 Jun 2022

Excellent

Greens not great but pre-warned so not mar the round at all

Richard – Reviewed 22 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

As pre warned about the greens we were given a discount £10 per buggy,really good course staff and pro brilliant

Cliff – Reviewed 22 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

Great course, very enjoyable. In fantastic surroundings. The fairways were very well kept as were the tee boxes & bunkers. However the greens were appalling! Very patchy & bumpy, let's the course down a great deal. We still thoroughly enjoyed the course though and would play there again.

Christopher – Reviewed 15 Jun 2022

Excellent

Stunning course great location & views. Course in excellent condition but the greens are atrocious & really let it down

Les – Reviewed 13 Jun 2022

8.0

Very Good

overall course was good nice tee's and fairways but some off the bunkers were poor looks like locals letting their dogs run through them, but sadly to say the greens were the worst I've ever played on hopefully they will get them back to normal soon.

Roy – Reviewed 3 Jun 2022

2.0

Poor

The greens are not playable all 18 hole, the fair ways are lovely but not being able to put on the greens has spoilt my time there I would never play there again very disappointed, you should take this golf course off your site as it is not playable at the moment, i feel like I have wasted money.

Mark – Reviewed 26 May 2022

6.0

Good

Course was in good condition apart from the greens. Most greens were unplayable, very bumpy and looked totally burnt and sandy. Putting was near impossible due to conditions of greens.

Mark – Reviewed 25 May 2022

6.0

Good

Great set up,good challenge for mid handicapper however the greens were terrible and spoilt the golf. Putting on compressed mud is no fun. A real shame as fairways and tees were in excellent conditions. Course is well sculptured but let down by greens

David – Reviewed 22 May 2022

Excellent

Course was excellent apart for greens

Mark – Reviewed 22 May 2022

6.0

Good

The location and layout is good and the tees / fareways quite good but the experience is completely ruined with the extremely bad condition of the greens. If I had played golf only there I would have stopped after a few holes and asked for a refund.

Robert – Reviewed 16 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

The fairways etc were in pretty good condition but however the greens were shocking with very little grass! A few holes have exceptionality long walks from green to tee! Wouldn’t hurry back any time soon!

Pat – Reviewed 13 May 2022

8.0

Very Good

Really enjoyed this course, plenty of challenging approach shots to the greens due to plenty of bunkers throughout the course. Fairways are long and wide. The only thing that let's this course down is the state of the greens, I believe that they had been vandalised a couple years ago. They are playable but not a good standard.

Brian – Reviewed 11 May 2022

Excellent

First time as a novice playing on the course and found it a delight. Only issue was finding the 9th hole. Not signposted very well

Lorraine – Reviewed 1 May 2022

Excellent

Course is a great set up. Each hole is interesting. Only problem was greens were very bare. Members of our group have played here before and were surprised by the poor condition.

Stephen – Reviewed 26 Apr 2022

8.0

Very Good

Great course but poor green condition at the moment

Nicholas – Reviewed 25 Apr 2022

6.0

Good

Fantastic course layout and location with beautiful scenery and surrounding areas. Excellent tee boxes and fairways but all 18 greens were in poor condition and mostly un-puttable(we were made aware of this prior and on the day of playing)when the greens are back to their best it will be a fantastic golf course and will be re-visiting.

Kevin – Reviewed 21 Apr 2022

2.0

Poor

The greens were the worst ive ever played on in 40 years. There is nothing good about the course i can say.

Paul – Reviewed 29 Mar 2022

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the golf but all greens were poor as they had problems with sprinkler system during summer. We were not advised of this prior to booking. Leisure and pleasure golfers so not a huge issue but more experienced golfers would be very unhappy with condition of greens. Buggy hire - £35 - expensive. Golf bar not staffed. Friendly staff in golf shop / office.

Angela – Reviewed 25 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great course spoiled by atrocious greens. No grass, just mould and miss. However price reflected conditions and we knew in advance

Mike – Reviewed 9 Oct 2021

4.0

Average

The course could obviously be amazing, although the distance between some holes are laughable, and the less said about the greens the better , easily the worst I have ever seen in my life , an absolute disgrace every single one of them

Allan – Reviewed 5 Oct 2021

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the challenge on what would have been a very good course but the state of all eighteen greens spoilt it . So sad but it’s the same for all and we just got on with it

Mike – Reviewed 18 Sep 2021

4.0

Average

The greens were unplayable due to having little grass

Brian – Reviewed 16 Sep 2021

2.0

Poor

All i can say is yourgolf travel should never have sold my party this package as the greens were practically unplayable and have been since april,really the course shouldn't be open at all,a real disappointment all round

Andrew – Reviewed 14 Sep 2021

8.0

Very Good

Another lovely course in a charming setting and one I’d love to return to… once the greens are sorted. Near impossible to putt on (hence 0 stars) due to damage caused by a failed irrigation system (not planned hollow tining as advised by YGT). The rest of the course was absolutely fine. We were compensated by a free buggy but would have rather have walked and enjoyed the putting. Friendly pro shop.

Steven – Reviewed 14 Sep 2021

2.0

Poor

Due to stupid thick rough at edge of every fairway. This supposed to be a resort hotel. Not hosting the open.

Peter – Reviewed 13 Sep 2021

2.0

Poor

Shocking grens worst I have ever pld

Paul – Reviewed 11 Sep 2021

6.0

Good

Before we played we were told the greens were in poor condition and they were not wrong. Basically they have “lost” the greens presumably due to lack of maintenance during lockdown and I would suggest it will take a year to get them back to a playable position. If this break had been all about golf we would have been very disappointed indeed. I would suggest they should be telling people about the condition of the greens at the point of booking and I am disappointed that your golf travel did not tell us.

Richard – Reviewed 24 Aug 2021

8.0

Very Good

Very long course but fun to play .just a pity the greens are not good

Steven – Reviewed 22 Aug 2021

Excellent

Love this course unfortunately the greens were in need of repair/treatment- staff were very transparent on this but it didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment at all

Vincent – Reviewed 16 Aug 2021

4.0

Average

Played here on 04/08/21 phoned to book a buggy out with our package was told they were only charging £25 instead of the usual £35 as the greens were :a bit dry; what he should have said was that the greens were non existent burnt to a crisp the only green we had with any grass on it was the 16th which had a patch on it seemingly there sprinkler system was broke in my opinion they have a cheek charging to play here never mind for a buggy such potential but certainly won’t be returning any time soon .

Donald – Reviewed 9 Aug 2021

6.0

Good

The course itself could be brilliant but the greens were an absolute disgrace. We heard other groups had been offered a bar discount as a token gesture for the appalling state of the greens however our group were offered nothing nor was it ever mentioned by the staff. Considering we played 3 rounds there we found this extremely disappointing. The staff working in the shop and bar were great, very welcoming and accommodating however the state of the course has let them down hugely.

Matt – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

We enjoyed the course we r all over 70 some par 4s well over 400yrds was a challenge we had buggies which was great bit of a trek from greens 2 tees but we all enjoyed the golf greens had very little grass on we had 2 land ball a bit short the pro warned us about that

Anthony – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

Never played on anything so poor . Greens were just hard mud no grass on them at all fairways so dry no irrigation on the course in very poor condition real shame as the setting is lovely and it could be a good course .should not be part of a golf package in that condition . Paid to play somewhere else local .

Lisa – Reviewed 31 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

Greens are unplayable and should be called Browns. Not a patch of green on them. Haven't seen water and looked dead. Unplayable at times and spoilt the round.

Stuart – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

The course was very burnt and the greens had no grass on then, it was like putting on a glass table.

Richard – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

Golf course was not playable as hasn't been watered all year due to local problems, like putting on tarmac...total waste of money, we should have been in formed & offered alternative, courses round about looked in good condition.

James – Reviewed 28 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

Not a blade of grass on any of the greens which made putting virtually impossible.If we had known this before we booked we would not have booked.

Matt – Reviewed 22 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Tee to green the course was fantastic. White consistent sand in bunkers. Tee boxes were well kept. The fairways were like carpets. The only downside was the greens. Due to lack of water the greenkeeping team have totally lost them.

Scott – Reviewed 22 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

From tee to green the course is pretty good The problem start when reaching the green. All Greens in a terrible condition !!!!!!

Paul – Reviewed 21 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Great course, shame about the greens , they are gone! Apparently the sprinkler system has not worked for some time.

Alan – Reviewed 21 Jul 2021

Excellent

Greens had no grass on them,poisoned, burnt I don't know I don't think YGT should be using this golf course as you will leave yourselves wide open to complaints. Spoilt what would have been a great golfing trip Yours T.Sellers

Tom – Reviewed 17 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Greens were in very poor condition due, as I understand, to a past problem with the irrigation system. It was such a shame as the rest of the course was in great condition. The other issue I would like to mention was the rough, which was very thick and high, impossible to play out of. The issue I have is that it went from fairway to rough, with no semi at all. A number of balls rolled from the fairway into the thick rough, never to be seen again. Had there been even a yard of semi, it would have stopped them going into the rough.

Norman – Reviewed 16 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the course but if you strayed from the fairway even slightly then the ball was lost.

Joan – Reviewed 15 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

Greens were shocking Burnt cracked and bare basically unplayable. Bunkers were poor had not been raked by staff for days very disappointing

Les – Reviewed 14 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

David – Reviewed 11 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

The course is well laid out with plenty of bunkers. If you're playing well, the fairways are wide and inviting. Go off line and you'll struggle to find your ball in the deep rough, all of which is fair enough. Fairways were generally in good nick, although with a lot of traffic there were plenty of divots. The greens however, were poor. Browns would be a more apt description. I presume they've had major problems with them, whether that is a lack of attention or poor weather I'm not sure. One last point they didn't have any record of our tee time booking for the first day and so had to squeeze us in, although they did have us down for the next day. So a bit odd. Probably wouldn't go back until the greens improve.

Jonny – Reviewed 7 Jul 2021

2.0

Poor

Greens were very poor, I believe the course should have been closed for work on the greens. The staff were very good but selling a very poor experience. I would be taking this break off your site or explaining to customers the condition of the course. A "course condition" should be stated in all your golf breaks.

Bob – Reviewed 6 Jul 2021

6.0

Good

Was given same tee off time as a coach party of golfers (30 men in front of my husband all 1pm tee off)! Took 6 hours to play course. Lovely setting for a course and fairways in good condition but greens are dead! According to 1 employee the water bill hasn’t been paid so greens haven’t been watered in over a year! A real shame as the place has so much potential.

Andrew – Reviewed 5 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

The majority of the tee boxes were good, the fairways were in good condition, not a lot of 2nd cut from the fairway so you are punished hard when missing the fairways. The greens however were extremely poor due to being diseased, although the Club Pro tried to explain to us that it was due to a lack of rainfall??? the greens were appalling and this really spoilt the golfing experience. The course layout is excellent with views to die for, a fantastic setting. Poor signage from green to tee with public walking paths alongside the course meant you frequently went down the wrong path, also little or no waste bins on the course.

Maurice – Reviewed 3 Jul 2021

8.0

Very Good

Course fairways and tees in very good condition, greens terribly burnt with virtually no grass on them. That said the ball rolled true but quite quick. Some great bunkering adds to the difficulty of this course

Chris – Reviewed 1 Jul 2021

4.0

Average

The greens are the worst I have every played on. YGT should stop sending people here immediately. an absolute disgrace. The course itself is in nice enough condition although the rough of far too long and there is no attempt to develop a semi rough to hold the ball that skip on in the very dry conditions. Loads of balls were lost and that doesn't help with the slow play. did I mention the greens !!!! Don't go.

Mick – Reviewed 30 Jun 2021

8.0

Very Good

Course in general not too bad but greens were probably the worst i have ever played on. Like bumpy concrete.

Paul – Reviewed 27 Jun 2021

6.0

Good

Greens were terrible but still enjoyed overall

Vincent – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

6.0

Good

Over all the course was in good condition. Fairways neat and tidy and some very enjoyable holes. Course let down drastically by condition of some sand bunkers and more importantly the greens themselves. On some holes the bunkers had more greenery growing in them than the greens. No grass left on the greens at all, they where made up of what can only be described as mud, seeding and sand. Another group playing ahead of us resorted to chipping on long greens as it was pointless attempting to putt over the large pieces of dirt. A massive let down to an otherwise fantastic trip.

Ryan – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

8.0

Very Good

I had read reviews that the course was looking a bit worse for wear however I found the fairways to be lush and well kept. The greens although they looked dead in places rolled true. Bunkers need some attention as they have weeds and plastic sheeting coming through. The layout and views on this course are lovely which made us enjoy the round, and the price can’t be moaned about.

Harrison – Reviewed 1 Oct 2020

2.0

Poor

Worst course I've played in many years. Good layout but totally neglected. Bunkers full of weeds and polythene sheets. Absence of staff and clubhouse closed. Greene unkempt. Avoid at all costs.

Kenny – Reviewed 29 Sep 2020

8.0

Very Good

we went to check our tee off times and they didn't have our first round on the system, luckily they had one slot spare which was earlier than we had planned, they said that some of the information coming through from YGT wasn't coming through, so i would check with the Pro shop before you travel. The course was in a good condition, however the greens weren't they were a bit bobbly and had lots of sand on them.

Nichola – Reviewed 25 Sep 2020

6.0

Good

Played on the Sunday, took us four hours to go round.Again played on the Monday took us three hours to go round.Greens had recently been hollowtined and bunkers G.U.R.Overall enjoyed the course was a good challenge.Scored better on Monday as less hanging around waiting to take a shot.

Matt – Reviewed 25 Sep 2020

8.0

Very Good

We were very lucky the course was quiet and we went round in a very quick time the greens had recently been hollow tined but did not affect the pace of the greens A very enjoyable golf course to play

Jim – Reviewed 30 Oct 2019

8.0

Very Good

Enjoyed the lay out of the course but was very hard and played long and especially for the wife

George – Reviewed 16 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

An excellent layout and in good condition, particularly the fairways. The only criticism is there are several long walks from green to tees and this makes it feel like a long course, the back 9 is particularly long. Apart from that the setting is excellent an always enjoyable to play.

Alan – Reviewed 13 Sep 2019

Excellent

Beautiful course with great panoramic surroundings. Would recommend to all golfers.

Brian – Reviewed 9 Sep 2019

Excellent

a long course but most enjoyable

Sue – Reviewed 8 Sep 2019

8.0

Very Good

Lee – Reviewed 26 Aug 2019

6.0

Good

Maria – Reviewed 20 Aug 2019

8.0

Very Good

Played it often,quite long ,most holes have interest.While there it was quiet Pro shop very helpful ,

Eric / Sandra – Reviewed 18 Aug 2019

Excellent

It’s never changed. I like the course that’s why I always invited my different sets of friends to come with me. The only negative point is there’s no toilet facility which is a long course. But because of the noticeable decline of the hotel standard I won’t be coming back.

Kristina – Reviewed 2 Aug 2019

Excellent

Anthony – Reviewed 27 Jul 2019

8.0

Very Good

A challenging and tough course in tiptop condition with some great risk & reward holes. With 2nd cut rough a foot high, keep it on the fairways if you want to post a good score.

Antony – Reviewed 8 Jul 2019

6.0

Good

The most unforgiving rough I have experienced. Good challenge, weather was terrible which made it even harder. Worst scoring of my life. Perfect scenery and friendly staff. I will definitely come to play again. Great value on the package deal, although buggy hire is too expensive

Liam – Reviewed 8 Jul 2019

8.0

Very Good

Loved it but difficult course conditions with the first cut still had the cutting on top so when your ball drifted in it got lost

Alastair – Reviewed 7 Jul 2019

Excellent

Played two rounds looking forward to playing it again soon.

Thomas – Reviewed 30 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

The course is very long (13km)if walking with long treks from tee to greens. Following a four-ball in buggies still took 5 hours. With a buggy and a reasonable clear run times were much better. The greens were patchy and not in the best condition. For a medium / high handicapper it is a hard course, not recommended for holiday golf.

Andrew – Reviewed 30 Jun 2019

6.0

Good

Long walk round mostly because of the distance between some of the greens to next tee.Put course down as hard because of the rough no semi rough this made the round longer than it should have been, still enjoyed playing course.

Derek – Reviewed 26 Jun 2019

8.0

Very Good

Had the use of a buggy for the first round, which was good to understand the first trip around the long 7,200 yard course, but walked on the second round as no buggies available. But the course was split into 4 areas with long spaces in between, but was not a problem even when walking. Although the corse was long, it was enjoyable to play and managed to walk around quicker that the previous day with a buggy. Only issue to note, was the greens could have been better.

Richie – Reviewed 4 Jun 2019

Excellent

A very pleasant surprise, lovely scenery, and interesting & enjoyable course. A buggy advised for the senior golfers.

Peter – Reviewed 19 May 2019

8.0

Very Good

The course was a real challenge, and a long one too. Some of our group stated could do with toilet facilities and we were surprised none on course. No benches too which would help on the tee when waiting to play. I will definitely return.

Jean – Reviewed 2 May 2019

8.0

Very Good

The course itself is beautiful we just happened to visit in March after a lot of rain however we managed to play the full 18 holes on the second day despite it being very wet the pro was excellent very kindly gave us great advice and even lent me at all for free after my battery failed this was much appreciated and we will definitely be back

Cathy – Reviewed 20 Mar 2019

8.0

Very Good

Bev – Reviewed 13 Nov 2018

8.0

Very Good

Good service from the pro in the shop, very accommodating. Would recommend. Greens were a little slow but overall in very good condition.

Ross – Reviewed 2 Oct 2018

8.0

Very Good

Liked it that much I joined the golf club So now I am a member

Walter – Reviewed 1 Oct 2018

Excellent

We had a buggy on both days as its a long course and some holes theres a big walk to next tee

Steve – Reviewed 25 Sep 2018

8.0

Very Good

Very long course (for us anyway) and the pace of play on the Sunday was very slow. The course is very unforgiving if you go off line and indeed the rough is impossible to find your ball from. Moreover you don't even find somebody else's ball when you do go in there, which is strange to say the least..

Kristina – Reviewed 13 Sep 2018

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Arriving on
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Par	72
Designed by	Dave Thomas
Opened for play	2001
Previousley hosted	Euro Pro Tour and European Challenge Tour events

Black	6,990 yards	SSS 74
White	6,856 yards	SSS 74
Yellow	6,555 yards	SSS 73
Red	6,035 yards	SSS 76

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Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa

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Macdonald Cardrona Golf & Country Club

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