Known as 'Gowf,' the game was established enough in Scotland by 1457 that it was officially banned for interfering with archery practice. Nevertheless, golf continued to thrive; it was played by Mary Queen of Scots and James VI, who later became James I of England.

By the 18th century, groups of golf enthusiasts began forming clubs and organising competitions. The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers was established in the 1740s, and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews hosted its first competition in 1754. It was at St Andrews that the standard of 18 holes per course was eventually adopted