Copyright: Visit East Lothian, Photographer: Tom Duffin

Discover Scotland’s Golf Coast in East Lothian

East Lothian is a dream destination for golfers, known as Scotland’s Golf Coast. With over 21 exceptional courses, including world-renowned names like Muirfield, North Berwick, Gullane, and The Renaissance Club, the region offers a perfect blend of heritage, coastal beauty, and world-class golfing.

But a memorable golf trip involves more than just choosing great courses. Careful planning is key, and that means securing tee times, organising transport, and ensuring you have a comfortable, convenient base. This guide provides all the essential advice you need for a seamless East Lothian golf trip.

Securing Tee Times: Your Gateway to the Best East Lothian Golf Courses

Best Way to Book Tee Times in East Lothian

East Lothian’s top courses are in high demand. Muirfield, for example, is one of the world’s most prestigious links courses with limited visitor slots. Even iconic names like North Berwick and Gullane require advance bookings, especially for group play.

Top Tips for Securing Tee Times

Book Early: Aim to secure tee times as far in advance as possible - especially for popular courses. East Lothian courses generally allow bookings up to 60 days in advance, though some courses, like Musselburgh Old Links, may have a shorter window, allowing bookings up to 7 days in advance.
Be Flexible: Consider shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) when courses are less crowded.
Mix Your Itinerary: Combine must-play courses like Muirfield with hidden gems such as Craigielaw or Longniddry.
Contact Directly: Many courses prefer direct contact via email or phone, especially for groups.

Tee Time Booking Details for East Lothian Golf Courses

Here’s how to secure tee times at some of East Lothian’s most renowned golf courses:

Muirfield: Visitor days are Tuesdays and Thursdays. Advance booking is essential. Maximum handicap: 24 for men, 36 for women.
North Berwick (West Links): Visitors welcome six days a week (excluding Saturdays). Book via the club website.
Gullane Golf Club: Offers three courses, welcoming visitors throughout the week. Online booking available.
The Renaissance Club: Primarily a private members' club, visitor access is limited. Contact the club directly.
Archerfield Links: Limited visitor tee times. Advance booking through the club or a golf tour operator is recommended.
Craigielaw Golf Club: Welcomes visitors with online booking.
Dunbar Golf Club: Open to visitors with online booking available.

By planning ahead and using these links, you can ensure your group has access to East Lothian’s top courses.

Getting Around East Lothian: Travel Tips for Golfers

Why Planning Your Transport is Essential

East Lothian’s golf courses are spread out along the coastline, making transport planning a key part of your trip. While public transport is available, most golf groups prefer the convenience of private travel.

Travel Options to Consider

Car Rentals: Ideal for smaller groups who prefer flexibility. Gilmerton House can recommend trusted providers.
Minibus Hire: Perfect for mid-sized groups, with space for clubs. Staff at Gilmerton House can assist with arranging transport.
Taxis: Convenient for shorter journeys between courses or evening dinners.

Suggested Routes for a Perfect Golf Day

Gilmerton House to Muirfield (8 miles): A short drive for a morning round at one of the world’s great courses.
North Berwick and Gullane Loop: Play two stunning coastal courses in one day.
Day Trip to St Andrews (1 hour 30 mins): Travel a little bit further afield to experience the historic Home of Golf.

The Perfect Base for Your Golf Group: Gilmerton House

For golfers seeking a luxurious and convenient base, Gilmerton House near North Berwick is unbeatable. This stunning Georgian mansion offers exclusive use of a 1,000-acre private estate, while being situated just a few miles from world-class golf courses, creating a true golfer’s paradise.

Why Gilmerton House is Ideal for Golf Groups

Prime Location: Just minutes from East Lothian’s best courses, including Muirfield, Gullane, and The Renaissance Club.
Exclusive Use: Enjoy total privacy for your group in a historic setting.
Luxurious Accommodation: for up to 20 guests in 10 bedrooms across the main house and Gilmerton Lodge, perfect for group stays.
Private Driving Range: Warm up your swing before heading out.
Elegant Entertaining Spaces: The oak-panelled dining room, snooker room, and spacious drawing rooms offer perfect spots to relax after a day on the fairways.
Bespoke Dining: The Edinburgh Catering Company provides tailored dining experiences, from hearty Scottish breakfasts to seven-course tasting menus.

Your Own Private 19th Hole

Gilmerton House goes beyond a place to sleep. It is a golfer’s private clubhouse, where you can unwind with a dram of whisky by a roaring log fire or challenge friends to a game of snooker. For those seeking more than just golf, the estate also offers a range of country pursuits, including:

Clay pigeon shooting
Archery
Whisky tastings
Cookery and cocktail classes
Highland Games

The Laundry House: Perfect for Group Dinners or Events

Gilmerton House also offers The Laundry House, an impressive event space with a rustic yet refined ambiance, perfect for private group dinners, BBQs, whisky tastings, or celebrations. This flexible venue can accommodate up to 100 guests and provides an ideal setting for your group’s special evening.

Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Golf Trip

Packing Essentials for Scottish Golf

Layered clothing for changeable weather.
Waterproof gear and a reliable rain jacket.
Comfortable golf shoes suitable for wet and dry conditions.
Reusable water bottle and snacks for longer rounds.

Managing Weather Uncertainty

Check local weather forecasts daily.
Pack a compact umbrella and extra gloves.
Be prepared for wind on coastal courses.

Timing Your Trip Right

Best months: April-May for mild weather, September-October for quieter courses.
Peak summer (June-August) offers longer daylight but higher demand.
Midweek rounds often have better availability than weekends.

Sample Itinerary: A Perfect 3-Day East Lothian Golf Experience

Golf, great food, exceptional hospitality and the best Whisky available… what more could you want?

Day 1

Morning: Arrive at Gilmerton House and settle in.
Afternoon: Play your first round at North Berwick.
Evening: Enjoy a chef-prepared dinner at Gilmerton House.

Day 2

Morning: Tee off at Muirfield.
Lunch: Relax at the Muirfield clubhouse.
Afternoon: A second round at Gullane.
Evening: Whisky tasting back at Gilmerton House.

Day 3

Morning: Round at The Renaissance Club.
Afternoon: Explore North Berwick’s coastal town.

Evening: Farewell dinner in The Laundry House.

Make Gilmerton House Your 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 are a group of friends, a corporate outing, or celebrating something special, Gilmerton House provides a warm welcome, exceptional comfort, and unforgettable memories.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

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East Lothian Golf Guide: Tee Times, Top Courses & the Luxury of Gilmerton House