East Lothian, located on the coast east of Edinburgh in Scotland, is a region with deep roots in golf. Simon Holt, a lifelong golfer and travel industry veteran, is a native of East Lothian and is well-acquainted with the golf hotspots in the area. In a recent episode of the Destination GOLF podcast with GOLF senior writer Josh Sens, Holt outlined an East Lothian dream trip, complete with insider travel tips and recommendations. This article highlights the best golf courses in the Edinburgh/East Lothian area, providing rates and descriptions for each course.
Muirfield, home to the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, is a renowned golf course in East Lothian. Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1891 and updated by Harry Colt, Muirfield offers a challenging test and a memorable experience. A typical day at Muirfield includes 36 holes and a legendary lunch, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. Public tee times are available on select days, but they fill up quickly. Holt recommends booking through select tour operators, such as 8AM Travel, for easier access to tee times.
Gullane No. 1 is another standout course in East Lothian, with sweeping coastal views and a rich history as a former host of the Scottish Open. Kilspindie Golf Club, located near the Edinburgh airport, offers a unique links experience by the sea. Musselburgh, the oldest golf course in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records, provides a rustic and affordable option for golfers. North Berwick, a course that Holt is a member of, features iconic template holes and a charming atmosphere.
For accommodation in the Edinburgh/East Lothian area, Holt recommends staying in North Berwick due to its convenient location and access to the train station. The Marine Hotel, located near the 16th hole of North Berwick, is a top choice for luxury accommodation. For more budget-friendly options, Nether Abbey and Number 12 are also recommended. When it comes to dining, North Berwick offers a variety of restaurants, including Osteria, the Rocketeer, the Herringbone, and the Auld Hoose for traditional pub fare.
In Gullane, the Bonnie Badger, the Main Course, and the Old Course are popular dining spots for visitors. Overall, an East Lothian golf trip offers a unique experience with a variety of courses, accommodation options, and dining choices. To learn more about East Lothian and its attractions, listeners can tune into the Destination GOLF podcast episode featuring Simon Holt’s expert insights and recommendations. The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music.
