Cochrane Castle Golf Club

Cochrane Castle Golf Club's golf course was established in 1895 at Craigston Farm, Johnstone, on land leased from G.L. Houstoun, the laird at the time. The original course layout was carried out by Charlie Hunter, who had previously served as professional and greenkeeper at Old Prestwick after Old Tom Morris.

Significant changes to the course layout occurred following a compulsory purchase of ground by the Town Council in 1949, leading to the loss of eight holes and the need for new ground acquisition. In 1950, designer James Braid created new holes, extending the course to 6500 yards, but these were soon abandoned due to their remoteness from the clubhouse.

Labeled as a course with 'greens on wheels,' the 1950s saw frequent changes before the course evolved into its current layout with the acquisition of land that now constitutes the 'bottom six.' Notable features include the first hole, which is named after Barclay Howard, a member who won the Silver Medal in the 1997 Open Championship at Royal Troon.

The course has been associated with several prominent golfers, including John Caven, who played in the inaugural Walker Cup in 1922, Dean Robertson, winner of the Scottish Amateur Strokeplay Championship in 1992, and Barclay Howard, the Scottish Strokeplay Champion in 1997. These individuals, among others, have brought distinction to the club through their achievements in national and international competitions.