Golf Courses in Edinburgh and Lothians Scotland

History

Golf (or gowf as it was once known) has been played in Scotland since the 14th century. Today you'll find some world-renowned courses around Edinburgh, including Gullane, the Open Championship course at Muirfield and the Open Qualifying course at Dunbar. Little wonder then, that East Lothian has been called the 'Cradle of Golf'.

Golf was first officially recognised in 1502, but back in the 15th century it faced serious opposition. Both James II and James III tried to ban it, as it was becoming more popular than archery. James IV also tried to ban it, but was later converted to the game. Another keen royal golfer was Mary Queen of Scots, who reportedly played at Musselburgh Links - the world's oldest playing course - in 1567.

One of the world's first established golf clubs, The Gentleman Golfers of Leith (later the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers) was formed in Edinburgh in 1744.

Opportunities

Edinburgh and the Lothians is one of Scotland's best golfing regions. The mix of historical (Musselburgh Links is the oldest continuously playing course in the world) and modern courses (such as the specially designed courses at Craigielaw) makes the area particularly popular with golfers of all handicaps.

There is a wide choice of golf courses throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians, so whether you prefer to play on sandy links with sea views or parkland greens, you're bound to find at least one new course to add to your list of favourites.

Take a look at our Edinburgh and Lothians Golf Course Listings

Get more golf for your money with the Golf East Lothian passport, which offers great discounts (15% in high season 30% in low) at various golf courses across East Lothian. It's available for just £7.50 from North Berwick Tourist Information Centre and various hotels in the area. You can also buy online at the Golf East Lothian website, or phone (+44) 01620 892 197 for details.

Upcoming golf events

- The East Lothian Golf & Whisky Classic, Gullane2, 29th March - 3rd April 2009. Find out more

For more information about upcoming golf events, click here.

Fascinating facts

Impress your friends at the clubhouse with some weird and wonderful Scottish golfing facts!

Did you know that East Lothian has the highest concentration of championship links courses in the world?

Ever wondered why the standard hole size is 4.25 inches? It's based on the size of the first known hole cutter, which was used from 1829 at Musselburgh Old Course. The dimension was adopted in 1893 by the Royal & Ancient and has been used ever since.

The world's first ever golf tournament for women was held on New Year's Day 1811 at Musselburgh.

Musselburgh man, Willie Park Senior won the first ever Open Championship in 1860.

And, sticking with the Musselburgh connection, the oldest cup still played for is The Old Club Cup at Royal Musselburgh, which dates back to 1860.

For information about golf in Edinburgh & Lothians and the rest of Scotland, please click here.