Top 10 Championship Golf Courses Near Edinburgh
Best Golf Courses Near Edinburgh
Scotland is the spiritual home of golf, and East Lothian is the perfect location to explore some of the finest championship golf courses in the world. Whether you're a visiting golfer or a local enthusiast, here are 10 top-tier golf courses near Edinburgh that promise a world-class golfing experience - all within a 3o minute drive from Gilmerton House.
Muirfield, Gullane
Highlights: Host of 16 Open Championships
How to Book: Visitors must apply in advance via the Muirfield website. Strict dress codes apply.
Food: Enjoy a traditional carvery lunch in the clubhouse (jacket and tie required).
Did You Know? Muirfield is home to The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, the oldest golf club in the world (founded in 1744).
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Gullane Golf Club (No. 1 Course), Gullane
Highlights: Scottish Open host course
Booking: Book tee times online or call the club directly on +44 (0)1620 842 255
Food: The Visitors’ Clubhouse serves fresh local fare with sea views.
Interesting Fact: You can often spot Edinburgh and the Forth Bridges from the 7th hole.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
North Berwick Golf Club (West Links), North Berwick
Highlights: One of the oldest links courses in the world
Booking: Online via northberwickgolfclub.com
Food: Classic clubhouse dishes with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Did You Know? The “Redan” 15th hole is one of the most copied par-3s in golf course design globally.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Dunbar Golf Club, Dunbar
Highlights: Former Open Qualifier venue
Booking: Book online or call the pro shop on +44 (0)1368 862086
Food: The new clubhouse (opened in 2024) offers panoramic sea views and locally sourced food.
Interesting Fact: Dunbar often boasts better weather due to its location in the East Lothian "sunshine belt".
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Craigielaw Golf Club, Aberlady
Highlights: Championship links with modern design
Booking: Reserve via Craigielaw website
Food: The lodge restaurant serves hearty breakfasts and award-winning pies.
Did You Know? Craigielaw also hosts the Scottish Seniors Open.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
The Renaissance Club, North Berwick
Highlights: Host of the Genesis Scottish Open
Booking: Limited access for non-members, enquire through the club on +44 (0)1620 850 901
Food: Gourmet dining tailored to tour-level guests
Interesting Fact: Phil Mickelson and Justin Thomas have played this course during Scottish Open events.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Archerfield Links (Fidra & Dirleton Courses), Dirleton
Highlights: Luxury golfing experience with spa and stay packages
Booking: Online or through luxury golf travel agents
Food: The Clubhouse serves contemporary Scottish cuisine
Did You Know? Archerfield was a training base for elite golfers preparing for The Open.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Longniddry Golf Club, Longniddry
Highlights: Mixture of parkland and links-style golf
Booking: Tee times available on BRS Golf
Food: The clubhouse offers traditional Scottish dishes and a bar menu.
Fact: Longniddry was designed in part by Harry Colt, one of golf’s most influential architects.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Royal Musselburgh Golf Club, Mussleburgh
Highlights: Historic parkland course
Booking: Available online or by calling the pro shop on +44 (0)1875 819000 opt4
Food: The restaurant is open daily with Sunday roasts and light lunches
Did You Know? The club holds one of the oldest pieces of golf silverware - the Old Club Cup, first played for in 1774.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
Prestonfield Golf Club, Edinburgh
Highlights: Championship layout beneath Arthur’s Seat
Booking: Book online or call directly on +44 (0)0131 667 8597
Food: Café bar and function suite with seasonal menus
Interesting Fact: James Braid, a five-time Open Champion, designed the course in 1920.
Directions from Gilmerton House: Open in Google Maps
How to Book Tee Times
Most clubs offer direct booking through their websites or platforms like BRS Golf or GolfNow.
For high-demand courses like Muirfield and The Renaissance, early booking or an email inquiry is essential.
Some may require handicap certificates or formal dress codes.
Unforgettable Golfing Experiences
Whether you're chasing your next personal best or soaking up Scotland’s rich golf heritage, these top golf courses near Edinburgh offer an unforgettable experience for golfers of all abilities. Just 45 minutes from the historic capital, they’re perfect for day trips, golf weekends, or luxury golf holidays.
Gilmerton House - Your Luxurious Golfing Base
Gilmerton House is the ultimate base for your East Lothian golf trip. Enjoy the freedom of an exclusive-use estate, tailored dining, and easy access to some of the world’s best golf courses.
Whether you're a group of friends, a corporate outing, or celebrating a special occasion, Gilmerton House offers a warm welcome, exceptional comfort, and unforgettable memories.
Ready to Plan Your East Lothian Golf Trip?
Contact us to discuss your group’s ideal golf experience at Gilmerton House. Our team is here to help you create a bespoke itinerary that makes the most of East Lothian’s famous Golf Coast.
Copyright: Visit East Lothian, Photographer: Tom Duffin