Edinburgh & East Lothian Golf Trips

Scotland’s Capital & Coastal Links Paradise

East Lothian is one of Scotland’s most underrated golf regions, but those in the know consider it a links golf paradise.

Just a short drive from Edinburgh, this beautiful stretch of coastline boasts some of the country’s finest courses, from Open Championship venues to historic layouts filled with quirky charm. This is Scotland’s driest region, so expect firm and fast fairways, and on a clear day breath-taking views over the Firth of Forth.

What makes East Lothian so special is the mix of world-class courses and local character. Muirfield, the revered home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, is one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in the world. It’s where the original rules of golf were drafted, and it has hosted The Open Championship 16 times. North Berwick is a favourite of ours – quirky, historic, and home to the iconic Redan hole. Then there’s Gullane, with its dramatic elevation and sweeping sea views, offering something for every type of golfer.

Off the course, you’ll find laid-back coastal towns like Gullane and North Berwick, filled with great food, cosy pubs, and a warm, welcoming vibe. And with Edinburgh just down the road, you’ve got the perfect blend of golf, culture, and convenience. East Lothian might be one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets – but once you’ve played here, you’ll be in on it too.

Edinburgh & East Lothian Sample Golf Trips

East Lothian
Dublin & East Lothian
Liverpool & East Lothian

Golf Courses in Edinburgh & East Lothian

Map of Golf Courses in East Lothian

Archerfield Golf Links

Archerfield Golf Links offers two exceptional courses, the Fidra and the Dirleton, set amidst stunning coastal scenery. The Fidra Course features dramatic bunkering and strategic challenges that wind through pine trees and along the coastline, providing breath-taking views of the Firth of Forth. The Dirleton Course offers a more traditional links experience.

Craigielaw Golf Club

Craigielaw Golf Club offers a modern links experience with panoramic views over the Firth of Forth. Designed by Donald Steel and opened in 2001, the course features challenging greens, deep bunkers, and natural undulations and has hosted notable events, including the 2006 Scottish Amateur Strokeplay Championship and qualifying for the 2007 British Seniors Open.

Dunbar Golf Club

​Dunbar Golf Club boasts a rich history dating back to 1856, with records of golf played in the area as early as 1617. The course is set on a narrow strip of links land between the old red sandstone deer park wall and the North Sea, offering stunning coastal views. Initially designed as a 15-hole layout, it was expanded to 18 holes in 1880 by Old Tom Morris.

Gullane Golf Club

Gullane Golf Club is one of the country’s most prestigious golfing destinations. Established in 1882, the club boasts three exceptional links courses—No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3—each offering a unique challenge and breath-taking views of the Firth of Forth. Gullane No. 1 is the most famous, regularly hosting prestigious championships, including the Scottish Open.

Kilspindie Golf Club

This traditional links course officially opened in 1898 and features narrow fairways, pot bunkers, and deceptive greens. Notable holes include the par-3 8th, requiring a tee shot over Gosford Bay. Set along the Firth of Forth, the course offers stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife, providing a charming and enjoyable golfing experience.

Muirfield

Muirfield is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the world. Founded in 1744, it’s home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and has hosted numerous Open Championships. Its rich history, alongside its world-class design, makes Muirfield a must-play and the clubhouse experience at Muirfield is amongst the best in the game.

North Berwick Golf Club

The West Links at North Berwick, established in 1832, is one of Scotland’s oldest and most respected golf courses, offering a unique and challenging links experience filled to the brim with historic charm and quirk. The course is known for its stunning natural beauty, with spectacular views of the Firth of Forth.

Golf Accommodation in Edinburgh & East Lothian

The W Hotel

W Edinburgh offers bold, contemporary accommodation in the heart of the city, with stylish rooms and suites that showcase cutting edge design and modern luxury. From its striking architecture to vibrant, fashion forward interiors, the hotel provides an exciting place to stay, complete with innovative dining, lively social spaces, and the brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service.
★★★★★

The Leddie

The Leddie offers a sophisticated retreat that harmoniously blends historic charm with contemporary comforts. Originally constructed in 1638 and transformed into a hotel in 1970, this 17th-century inn underwent a meticulous renovation, reopening in 2024 to reveal a design palette of calming greens, greys, and teal, reflecting the surrounding natural beauty.
★★★★

The Balmoral

The Balmoral Hotel, a landmark five-star establishment in Edinburgh, is renowned for its majestic clock tower and prime location at 1 Princes Street, where the city's Old and New Towns converge. The Balmoral offers 167 rooms and 20 suites, each individually styled by Olga Polizzi, blending classic Scottish elements with contemporary design.
★★★★★

Archerfield

Archerfield provides luxury accommodation, from supremely comfortable lodges and a New England-style Boathouse sleeping eight, to a Edwardian country house and coastal cottage for four, Archerfield offers a fantastic variety of places to stay and indulge in world-class facilities, including the award-winning Fletcher’s Cottage Spa.
★★★★★

Marine North Berwick

The Marine Hotel in North Berwick is a charming and elegant 5* hotel overlooking the 16th hole of the West Links, the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock. This luxurious hotel has a perfect blend of modern comforts and historic charm, with the local town accessible via a short walk along the 17th and 18th holes of the iconic North Berwick West Links.
★★★★★

The InterContinental Hotel

InterContinental Edinburgh The George offers refined, elegant accommodation in the heart of the city, with beautifully designed rooms and suites that blend Georgian heritage with modern luxury. From its historic architecture to sophisticated interiors, the hotel provides an exceptional place to stay, complete with elevated dining, welcoming social spaces, and warm, attentive Scottish hospitality.
★★★★★

Hotel du Vin

Hotel du Vin Edinburgh offers boutique accommodation within its historic Old Town buildings, featuring characterful rooms and suites styled with rustic charm and modern comfort. With its cosy lounges, French inspired bistro, and intimate, atmospheric spaces, the hotel provides a warm and inviting place to stay in the heart of the city.
★★★★

Edinburgh & East Lothian Attractions and Sightseeing

Jack Whites Pro Shop

Bellhaven Brewery

Edinburgh City Tour

Transport links and climate in Edinburgh & East Lothian

East Lothian is easily accessible from Edinburgh, just a 30-minute drive via the A1. Regular train services from Edinburgh Waverley connect to key towns like North Berwick and Dunbar. Buses also serve the area from the city. 

East Lothian’s climate is milder and drier compared to much of Scotland, thanks to its east coast location. Summers (June to August) are generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) and long daylight hours. Spring (March to May) brings mild conditions of 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while autumn (September to November) cools to 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F). Winters (December to February) are relatively mild, averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Rainfall is moderate year-round, with spring and summer being drier. Coastal breezes are common, especially on golf courses, so temperatures can feel cooler—packing for variable weather is recommended.

east-lothian_rain temperature chart

Ready to start your golf adventure of a lifetime?