The Cradle of Golf
BY ED HODGE
3 MINS READ
With pictures of wonderful golfing links land and gorgeous sea views beamed into homes across the world in recent years through a number of leading professional events, it is little wonder East Lothian is on the must-play list for any visitor to Scotland.
Modern exposure has undoubtedly helped its appeal, witness the 2020 staging of the Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open at ‘new kid on the block’ The Renaissance Club, yet the quality of the region has long been familiar to golf aficionados given its rich heritage.
The Renaissance Club
The likes of Musselburgh, Dunbar and North Berwick – home to Scotland’s all-time leading female professional Catriona Matthew – boast renowned histories, while Muirfield is simply golfing gold. A 16-time host to The Open, most recently in 2013 when Phil Mickelson prevailed, the famous venue was also the scene for Scotland’s first staging of the Ryder Cup back in 1973.
Recalled as a heavy defeat for Great Britain & Ireland and Bernard Gallacher’s unfortunate food poisoning, the event attracted over 30,000 fans, with a season ticket for the three match days back then priced from just… £4.50.
“I can remember, to this day, standing on the 1st tee being quite convinced I was going to miss the ball,” recalled the late Brian Barnes of his Muirfield experience. “Fortunately, I never did.”
Continuing the region’s theme for hosting tournaments, a major female championship – the AIG Women’s Open – heads for Muirfield in 2022 for the first time, building on Gullane hosting both the men’s and ladies’ Scottish Opens in recent years, along with The Renaissance. The Scottish Seniors Open and the World Hickory Open have also graced the region, such are the plethora of opportunities available.
Dunbar Golf Club
Aptly named ‘Scotland’s Golf Coast’ through clever marketing, a journey that starts in Musselburgh and ends in Dunbar, 21 golf courses lie along 30 miles of stunning coastline in East Lothian. You will find traditional links and classic inland golf courses, often steeped in history, and complimented by modern, challenging courses.
With a range of accommodation options to choose from in a small corner of Scotland, the area has everything you need for a memorable golf trip. The fact the region is just 30 minutes’ drive from the nation’s historic capital, Edinburgh, and all boxes are ticked for a visit with family or friends.
It has another big plus going for it, too. East Lothian is one of Scotland’s driest and sunny locations, providing the opportunity to play all year around.
“Designed by ‘Mother Nature’ Scotland’s Golf Coast in East Lothian is simply some of the best golfing terrain in the world – a must for every golfing purist,” notes Andrew Coltart, the ex-Ryder Cup player and two-time European Tour winner, who formerly lived in the area.
There is choice at virtually every turn of the road. Craigielaw is a modern-thinking venue offering a fantastic test, with Kilspindie a gem in the quaint village of Aberlady. Coming into Gullane, witnessing the vast expanse of links across three courses, you could be forgiven for thinking you had arrived in St Andrews. A sighting of Gavin Hastings, the former Scotland and British Lions rugby captain, is likely at Gullane, given the low handicapper’s love of a different ball game.
Kilspindie Golf Club
Muirfield lies next door, with The Renaissance and two cracking venues at Archerfield Links, the Fidra and the Dirleton, close by. Keep driving and North Berwick is also home to The Glen, with panoramic views at virtually every turn. It’s no surprise to see eight East Lothian courses listed in Golf World’s Top 100 of links venues in Great Britain & Ireland for 2020.
Coupled with friendly clubhouses and affordable green fees, Scotland’s Golf Coast offers easy access for visitors and short journeys between courses. The diverse offering of accommodation also provides the perfect opportunity to rest, relax and unwind, with a choice of 5-star luxury hotels, family-run bed and breakfasts, self-catering apartments or even centuries-old stately homes.
Gullane No.1 Course
For the non-golfer, there are numerous golden sandy beaches along the coastline and many picturesque villages and towns throughout the rural landscape to explore. Golf, though, is never far away.
“I love links golf, being able to use your imagination and hit different shots,” says Rickie Fowler, winner of the Scottish Open at Gullane in 2015. “It's just fun, especially when the wind starts to blow a little bit.” The coast is calling…