THE 11 BEST GOLF COURSES IN EAST LOTHIAN, SCOTLAND

East Lothian has long been regarded as one of the great strongholds of Scottish golf. Along a compact stretch of coastline, the region offers an extraordinary concentration of historic links, championship venues, and quietly revered members’ courses.

For visiting golfers, the appeal lies not only in the quality of some of the best golf courses in Scotland, but in their variety. Within a single stay, it is possible to play Open Championship venues, centuries-old links shaped by the earliest forms of the game, and more forgiving courses that still deliver an authentic Scottish links experience.

Located just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, East Lothian is also one of the most accessible golfing regions in the UK, by air, rail, or road. Its proximity to the capital makes it ideal for short breaks, extended tours, or carefully paced itineraries that balance golf with time to enjoy Scotland’s landscapes, history, and hospitality.

Best Golf Courses in East Lothian at a Glance

Which Are the Best Golf Courses in East Lothian?

Below are eleven courses that together offer a complete picture of East Lothian golf – from revered championship tests to historic and welcoming links that remain a pleasure to play.

Dunbar Golf Club

Dunbar Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the finest championship links in Scotland.

Set on a narrow strip of land between the sea and the town, the course offers a compelling blend of classic links holes and inland turf. Designed originally by Old Tom Morris, it reflects the strategic principles that continue to define great links golf today.

The course is rich in character. The ninth hole plays beneath the Barns Ness Lighthouse, while later holes brush past historic ruins and follow the shoreline closely. Wind direction transforms the challenge daily, demanding adaptability and control.

Best for: Championship links, coastal scenery, traditional design.

North Berwick Golf Club

North Berwick Golf Club is among the world’s most celebrated links courses, admired as much for its character as for its pedigree.

Founded in 1832, it is the second-oldest golf course in the world. Stone walls, blind shots, and famously inventive holes require imagination rather than power. The views across the Firth of Forth towards Bass Rock are ever-present, lending a sense of drama without distraction.

North Berwick is a course that rewards repeat play. Each round reveals something new, shaped by conditions and confidence.

Best for: Historic prestige, strategic golf, unforgettable scenery.

The Glen Golf Club, North Berwick

The Glen Golf Club occupies a striking clifftop position above North Berwick.

Originally laid out as a nine-hole course, it was expanded in the early 20th century. Today, its elevated tees offer some of the finest coastal views in East Lothian, while the layout itself remains engaging and fair.

Narrow fairways, quick greens, and a handful of blind shots ensure players remain focused throughout. The course is shorter than many in the region, but no less absorbing.

Best for: Dramatic views, varied challenges, shorter rounds.

Muirfield

Muirfield is synonymous with championship golf.

Home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, it has hosted the Open Championship on numerous occasions and is widely regarded as one of the most exacting links courses in Britain.

The layout is deliberately uncompromising. Precision, patience, and sound judgement are essential throughout. For accomplished golfers, a round at Muirfield is not simply memorable – it is formative.

Best for: Elite golfers, championship standards, golfing tradition.

Gullane Golf Club – No. 1 Course

Gullane Golf Club No. 1 is the most celebrated of the club’s three courses.

Played over the slopes of Gullane Hill, it combines expansive views with a layout that challenges without overwhelming. The course has hosted Open qualifying and other major competitions, a testament to its balance and quality.

Fairways are demanding but fair, greens are swift, and each hole carries its own distinct personality.

Best for: Open-level golf, panoramic views, balanced play.

Gullane Golf Club – No. 2 Course

Gullane No. 2 offers a subtly different experience.

Sharing its opening holes with No. 1, it soon turns towards Aberlady Bay, where exposure to coastal winds becomes a defining feature. Shorter holes and particularly strong par threes test control and accuracy.

It is a course often favoured by locals for its rhythm and nuance.

Best for: Strategic golf, wind play, understated challenge

Gullane Golf Club – No. 3 Course

The shortest of the three, Gullane No. 3 nonetheless remains a deeply satisfying links.

Renowned for having the best greens of the trio, it rewards thoughtful shot placement and imaginative recovery play. Views across Aberlady Bay provide a constant reminder of the coastal setting.

Best for: Relaxed rounds, immaculate greens, scenic play.

Luffness New Golf Club

Luffness New Golf Club is a traditional links course that consistently challenges even experienced players.

Established in the late 19th century, it has hosted Open qualifying events and remains a true test of links golf. Deep bunkers and the ever-present coastal wind ensure concentration is required from start to finish.

Best for: Authentic links, competitive rounds, wind-hardened golf.

Musselburgh Links – The Old Golf Course

Musselburgh Links is widely believed to be the oldest continuously played golf course in the world.

This nine-hole layout sits beside Musselburgh Racecourse and offers a rare opportunity to experience the game as it was once played. Hickory clubs are available, allowing visitors to step directly into golf’s early history.

Best for: Heritage, historic play, shorter rounds.

Kilspindie Golf Club

Kilspindie Golf Club lies within the Aberlady Bay nature reserve.

Founded in 1867, it is known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional layout. Coastal winds lend bite, while the overall experience remains friendly and accessible.

Best for: First-time links golfers, warm hospitality, classic design.

Longniddry Golf Club

Longniddry Golf Club offers a blend of woodland and links golf.

As the closest seaside course to Edinburgh, it is popular with both visitors and locals. The course is slightly more sheltered than others in the region, making it a reliable option in stronger winds.

Best for: Accessibility, mixed terrain, flexible rounds.

Key Takeaways for Golfers Visiting East Lothian

• East Lothian offers an unrivalled variety within a compact region
• Courses range from historic nine-hole layouts to Open venues
• Links golf here rewards strategy, patience, and imagination
• Proximity to Edinburgh makes access simple and seamless

Planning a Golf Stay in East Lothian

For more than two decades, we have curated luxury golf trips in Scotland that respect the rhythm of the game – unhurried, well-paced, and thoughtfully arranged.

If you would like to find out more about Scottish golf, golf breaks and some of the fabulous golf courses in East Lothian, Scotland, or indeed the rest of the UK, and where to play, please contact Andrew Lloyd on + 44 (0) 1835 824642 or andrew@ltrcastles.com.

For guests travelling with LTR Castles, golf in East Lothian is often paired with a stay at the refined Gilmerton House. From here, courses are easily reached, while guests return each evening to privacy, comfort, and attentive service. 

Beyond East Lothian, we also open the doors to a carefully curated collection of castles to rent in Scotland, allowing golfers to experience the country’s great courses alongside historic private houses and estates that few will ever access.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golf in East Lothian

Is East Lothian good for golf holidays?

Yes. East Lothian is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s premier golfing regions, offering an exceptional concentration of links courses within a relatively small area. The variety of layouts means it suits experienced players seeking championship tests as well as those new to links golf.

How close is East Lothian to Edinburgh?

Most golf courses in East Lothian are within a 30-minute drive of Edinburgh city centre, making the region one of the most accessible golf destinations in Scotland. This proximity allows golfers to combine coastal play with easy international travel connections.

Which East Lothian courses host Open qualifying?

Several of the region’s courses have strong Open Championship connections, including Muirfield, Dunbar Golf Club, Gullane Golf Club No. 1, and Luffness New Golf Club. These courses regularly feature in Open qualifying rotations or have hosted the Championship itself.

Is Muirfield open to visitors?

Yes, although access to Muirfield is limited and traditionally restricted. Tee times are usually arranged in advance and are most easily secured through specialist golf travel operators familiar with the club’s visitor policies and traditions.

How many golf courses are there in East Lothian?

There are more than 20 golf courses across East Lothian, including classic seaside links, inland parkland layouts, and historic nine-hole courses. This density allows golfers to experience a wide range of styles and challenges during a single stay.