Golf in East Lothian

Golf in East Lothian is a short golf blog post that looks at some of the best courses and accommodation providers East of Edinburgh.

When golfers think about taking a trip to Scotland, most think of St Andrews in Fife. Many are unaware of the East Lothian Coast full of golfing gems.

This week’s blog looks at where to stay and play on this golfing coast. The coast is often called the Scotlands golf coast because of the number of courses it has.

The coast is blessed with 22 golf courses that are all just a short drive away from each other. Each one of them is better than the next one.

My Top 3 Golf Courses in East Lothian

Muirfield – The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers

Probably the most famous course in this area due to its Open history. The Open has been played here 16 times in the past. The first of which was won by Harold Hilton in 1892 and the last by Phil Mickelson in 2013.
The club itself is privately owned and is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.
In 1959 the course measured 6,806 yards and was a Par 72. It now measures 7,245 yards due to an extension and is now a Par 71.
This is the most difficult golf course to get on as a visitor as tee times are few and far between.

North Berwick – The West Links

One of the favourite courses, for visitors, on this coast is North Berwick. A course that has never held a major, but deserves to do so. The course has held many amateur tournaments over the years as well as The Open Qualifying rounds.
The most famous hole is the Par 4 13th ‘The Pit’, so called due to a sunken green that lies behind a stone wall. A fascinating hole to play.
The two islands that are in view from the course are Bass Rock and Fidra Island. Fidra was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s book ‘Treasure Island’.

North Berwick 1st Tee

North Berwick 18th Tee

Musselburgh Links – The Old Course

This is where it all began, or at least this is the ongoing discussion. The Old Course at Musselburgh Links has held 6 Open Championships in the past.
This may only be a 9-hole golf course but still a pleasure to play and one to tick off the Open rota bucket list.
Another interesting historic fact, the hole size was created here by using an old piece of drainage pipe.

My Top 3 Accommodation Providers in East Lothian

Greywalls

This is the cream of accommodation in the Gullane area of East Lothian and partners with Chez Roux. Perfectly located right next door to Muirfield.
This is a stunning property with fantastic food and some breathtaking views.
Expect to pay a little more for that ultimate experience, but is is well worth it.

Bonnie Badger

The accommodation is stylish, clean and cosy. What more do you need? The menu choices and the food are excellent, as they should be because it belongs to Tom Kitchin.
Tom Kitchin is the number one chef in Scotland. He and his wife, Michaela have created something special in the heart of Gullane.

Marine North Berwick

This hotel is now part of the Marine and Lawn group. It sits right on the edge of North Berwick Golf Course and has some spectacular views across the Links and the coast.
When booking your rooms I recommend that you always upgrade to Sea View Rooms, they really are worth it.
Located just a short walk to the Clubhouse and Proshop. It also boasts its very own putting green, tricky too.

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