Golf packages in Edinburgh

East Lothian is one of Scotland’s premier golf destinations, where classic links golf meets stunning coastline and easy access to one of Europe’s great capital cities.

Known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, this remarkable region features 21 courses across 30 miles of breathtaking shoreline, offering the greatest concentration of championship links anywhere in the world.

From the historic fairways of Muirfield to the character and charm of North Berwick and Gullane, East Lothian delivers a pure and varied links experience.

Alongside these iconic names, courses such as Dunbar, Luffness New, Kilspindie, and the modern Craigielaw add depth and variety, ensuring every round brings something different. With golf deeply rooted in the local culture and a welcoming atmosphere throughout, this is a destination that appeals to golfers of all levels.

Travel tips for golfers visiting East Lothian

• Best time to visit: May to September offers the best conditions, with longer daylight hours and the most consistent weather for links golf. Spring and early fall can also provide excellent value and quieter courses.
• Top tip: Links golf here is shaped by wind and firm conditions. Playing low, controlled shots and using the ground game will often yield the best results.
• Travel time: Edinburgh Airport is just 30 minutes away, making East Lothian one of the most accessible golf regions in Scotland.
• Transport: Car rental or private transfers are recommended to easily access the variety of courses along the coastline.
• Booking tip: Championship courses such as Muirfield and North Berwick are in high demand, particularly in peak season, so early booking is essential.
• Extend your trip: With Edinburgh so close, adding extra nights in the city allows you to combine world-class golf with historic sightseeing, dining, and nightlife.

Some of East Lothian’s best golf courses include:

Muirfield | Gullane Ranked 6th in in Golf Digest's "World's 100 Greatest Golf Courses" in 2025 Architect: Old Tom Morris (refined over time) | Par: 71

One of the most prestigious clubs in the world, and a regular host of The Open Championship, Muirfield is renowned for its strategic design, immaculate conditioning, and unique two-loop layout.

Course highlight: The routing changes direction throughout the round, ensuring the wind challenges you from every angle.

North Berwick Golf Club, West Links | North Berwick Ranked 9th in in Golf Digest's "World's 100 Greatest Golf Courses" in 2025 Architect: Ben Sayers | Par: 71

A historic and quirky links layout, North Berwick is packed with character, featuring stone walls, blind shots, and some of the most memorable holes in Scotland.

Insider tip: Expect the unexpected, creativity and imagination are key here.

Gullane No.1 Course | Gullane Ranked as the 22nd best course in Scotland according to Top 100 Courses Architect: Willie Park Jr. | Par: 71

Former host of the Scottish Open and set across elevated links terrain, Gullane No.1 offers stunning views over the Firth of Forth alongside a challenging championship layout.

Good to know: A regular host of major championships and final qualifying for The Open.

Dunbar Golf Club | Dunbar Ranked as the 37th best course in Scotland according to Top 100 Courses Architect: Old Tom Morris | Par: 71

A traditional sea links with a strong finishing stretch along the coastline, Dunbar is both scenic and demanding.

Course tip: The closing holes, played along the water, are among the best in the region.

Luffness New Golf Club | Aberlady Ranked as the 45th best course in Scotland according to Top 100 Courses Architect: Old Tom Morris | Par: 70

A classic out-and-back links known for its fast greens and strategic bunkering, Luffness offers a true test of traditional links golf.

Good to know: One of the best-conditioned courses in East Lothian.

Kilspindie Golf Club | Aberlady Ranked as the 53rd best course in Scotland according to Top 100 Courses Architect: Willie Park Jr. | Par: 69

Shorter in length but rich in character, Kilspindie is a charming links that rewards precision and shot-making.

Course highlight: Stunning views across Aberlady Bay throughout the round.

Craigielaw Golf Club | Aberlady Architect: Donald Steel | Par: 71

A more modern addition to Scotland’s Golf Coast, Craigielaw offers wide fairways, large greens, and a slightly more forgiving links experience.

Insider tip: A great option to balance tougher championship rounds during your trip.