This is a stretch of coastline so rich in golf heritage, so blessed with world-class links, it has come to be known simply as Scotland’s Golf Coast – in short, East Lothian golf courses are the envy of the world.
Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, this compact region is home to some of the finest golf courses in the world — from Open Championship venues like Muirfield to beloved classics like North Berwick, Gullane, and Dunbar. The beauty of East Lothian lies not just in the quality of its courses, but in the variety: historic links carved through dunes, clifftop fairways battered by North Sea winds, and inland gems with postcard views. Whether you’re chasing bucket-list rounds or discovering hidden treasures, East Lothian offers a golfing experience few places on Earth can match.
The sheer density of golf along its pristine coastline is perhaps unmatched anywhere in the world. From Edinburgh to North Berwick, you’ll find 22 golf courses in the space of just 30 miles an – thanks to a seemingly endless selection of inns, hotels, or Airbnb’s – you can play golf non-stop without needing to change your accommodation..
The bounty provided by the Firth of Forth keeps all restaurants in the area supplied with fresh seafood while the nearby farms make for delicious choices from the land. To top it all off the public transport, East Coast Buses 124 and x5, make most golf courses accessible in a hop-on hop-off manner. Meaning a post round pint or sampling of the local whiskies can be done without concern of who will drive you home. The bus, or train, can take you all the way from Edinburgh to this golfing haven without ever needing a rental car.
Whether you choose Musselburgh, Aberlady, Gullane or North Berwick as your base you won’t be disappointed by the possibilities. Even a non-golfing companion will find plenty to do. Musselburgh’s proximity to Edinburgh makes it a great selection for those looking to balance city and east coast experiences. Musselburgh Old Links is one of the can’t miss courses. If you time it right, you might even catch a horse race taking place on the perimeter of the course as you come up the last.
EAST LOTHIAN GOLF COURSES EXPLAINED
From Aberlady, Kilspindie and Craigielaw Golf Clubs are within shouting distance, as is the local nature reserve which is often used by the Ornithologist society and multiple farm shops. Fancy a dram of whisky? Glenkinchie distillery is in the nearby fields or skip the trip out there and help yourself to all the joys of life at Ducks Inn. The Ducks is a must for any golfer in the area, nearly every inch of the bar is covered in golf memorabilia from its global fanbase. While at the inn its tradition to try one of the iconic putting bar games available. Play against your friends or a likeminded wanderer with everything from the hickory putters to Scotty Camerons in the bag at the bar.
From a golfing standpoint, Gullane is the most densely populated town on the coastline. You can spend an entire week playing golf in Gullane without having to leave the boundary here. Gullane Golf Club boasts three courses including the championship No. 1. On shared land with Gullane Golf Club is Luffness New Golf Club. The Renaissance Club and Archerfield Links are here as well and just on the way out of the village, along a small lane you’ll find one of the world’s great links – Muirfield, home to the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers. Golf is very much the main event here, but the food and drink scene is also wonderful with the likes of Tom Kitchin’s Bonnie Badger here, as well as the Old Clubhouse – in truth, there’s no poor choice.
GULLANE THE HEART OF SCOTLAND’S GOLF COAST
While in Gullane, do not miss a chance to stop in the Jack White shop to peruse or purchase one of a kind ready to play hickory clubs. The shop owner Boris will even let you hire the clubs for a round to help convince you they are worth the investment, or just try them out during your trip to play one of the local courses in a way they were originally designed to be played.
At the eastern most point of this trail is North Berwick. Internationally renowned for the West Links of North Berwick Golf Club, this area is a bucket list destination for any passionate golfer. A tee time at North Berwick is worth whatever effort is required, the hospitality of the club and course itself are world class. On the opposite side of the Harbour Promontory from the West Links is the Glen Golf Club, perhaps a less well-known course, yet storied and challenging that will provide a proper links test.
While in North Berwick there are plenty of beach sport activities available as well as the opportunity to hike The Law, a mountain to most or hill to some that makes its presence known from any angle of the town. Many a seabird enthusiast can be seen along the coastline observing Bass Rock out in the Firth of Forth, and for those interested there are boat tours that may make a naturalist out of any visitor. Like much of the rest of East Lothian the seafood is wonderful with The Puffin, on the High Street, boasting an eclectic menu and delightful atmosphere. For lunch, the Rocketeer or Lobster Shack out in the harbour will make you feel like you are on a beach vacation.
East Lothian is a humbling area of coastline, rich in options and filled with down to earth people that quickly make visitors feel as welcome as locals. When considering an extended stay somewhere in Scotland, there are not many places to beat this stretch of golfing paradise.
East Lothian Golf Courses: Key Facts
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Region nickname: Scotland’s Golf Coast
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Number of courses: 22
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Most famous courses: Muirfield, North Berwick (West Links), Gullane No. 1, The Renaissance Club
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Oldest course: Musselburgh Links (1567 – one of the oldest in the world)
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Open Championship venue: Muirfield
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Scottish Open host: The Renaissance Club
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Visitor-friendly courses: North Berwick, Gullane, Dunbar, Kilspindie, Longniddry
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Best value gem: Kilspindie Golf Club
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Ideal base town: North Berwick
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Best time to visit: May–September
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Distance from Edinburgh: ~30 minutes by car or train
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Type of golf: Predominantly classic links, some inland/heathland variety
East Lothian Golf Courses: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best golf courses in East Lothian?
East Lothian is home to several world-class golf courses. The standouts include Muirfield (home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers), North Berwick Golf Club with its iconic Redan hole, Gullane No. 1, and Archerfield Links. Other excellent options include Dunbar, The Renaissance Club (host of the Genesis Scottish Open), and Kilspindie, one of the oldest clubs in Scotland.
How many golf courses are there in East Lothian?
There are over 22 golf courses in East Lothian, ranging from championship links to more accessible public layouts. The region’s density of top-quality golf courses has earned it the nickname Scotland’s Golf Coast.
Can visitors play Muirfield?
Yes, Muirfield allows visitor play, but only on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and bookings must be made in advance. The course has a formal dress code and traditional clubhouse rules, so it’s important to review guidelines before your visit.
Is North Berwick Golf Club open to the public?
Yes. North Berwick Golf Club is very welcoming to visitors, and tee times can be booked online. It’s one of the most enjoyable and scenic links experiences in the world, with several holes running right along the coast.
What’s the best time of year to play golf in East Lothian?
The best time to play golf in East Lothian is from May to September, when conditions are generally dry and the daylight hours are long. That said, the courses here drain exceptionally well and remain playable for much of the year, especially in spring and autumn.
How much does it cost to play golf in East Lothian?
Green fees vary widely. Championship courses like Muirfield and The Renaissance Club can cost over £300, while gems like Kilspindie or Dunbar are more affordable, typically between £60–£120. Twilight and off-season rates offer better value.
Where should I stay when golfing in East Lothian?
The town of North Berwick is a popular base, offering easy access to many top courses, charming seaside accommodation, and a lively local scene. Gullane is another great option, especially if you plan to play multiple courses in one area.
Do I need a car to play golf in East Lothian?
While public transport from Edinburgh can get you to some courses (like Gullane and North Berwick), having a car makes it much easier to explore the full range of East Lothian golf courses and fit in multiple rounds during your visit.
Are there any hidden gem golf courses in East Lothian?
Yes — courses like Kilspindie, The Glen (North Berwick’s other course), and Longniddry are often overlooked but offer memorable rounds, sea views, and great value for money.
Why is East Lothian called Scotland’s Golf Coast?
East Lothian has earned the nickname due to its extraordinary concentration of high-quality golf courses, many of them links, all set along a dramatic and accessible stretch of coastline just outside Edinburgh. Few regions in the world offer such a rich golfing experience in such a compact area.
EAST LOTHIAN GOLF COURSES MAP
