As a golf tour operator who has welcomed countless clients to Scotland’s finest golfing regions, I can confidently say that an East Lothian Golf Trip offers one of the most concentrated and rewarding golf experiences anywhere in the world. Located just a short drive east of Edinburgh, East Lothian is home to an extraordinary collection of championship links courses that punch well above their weight on the global stage.
What makes a Golf Trip to East Lothian so special is the sheer quality and accessibility of the golf on offer. This compact region boasts an impressive lineup of courses, including two ranked among the top 6 courses in Scotland—Muirfield and North Berwick. Muirfield, host to numerous Open Championships, is the crown jewel of any East Lothian Golf Itinerary, offering a strategic test of golf that rewards precision and course management.
Day 1 The Glen
The Glen can be slightly overshadowed on an East Lothian Golf Tour due to its famous neighbours but is the ideal course for an arrival day knock. With incredible scenery and it being a little more playable than a typical championships Links its a proper “hidden gem” to get the trip started
Day 2 Gullane No.2
Today you will play the second course at The Mecca of golf that is Gullane and a hub for any East Lothian Golf Itinerary. Gullane no.2 is superb and will ease the group into the test that is Links Golf on Scotlands Golf Coast !
Day 3 North Berwick
Day 3 leads the group to one the most iconc golf courses on earth – North Berwick. The West Links at North Berwick Golf Club is one of Scotland’s most iconic seaside courses and a must-play destination on any East Lothian golf trip. Steeped in history — with golf played on this ground since the 17th century and the club founded in 1832 — it’s among the oldest courses in the world and a classic example of traditional links golf
Day 4 Killspindie
Day 4 brings the group to another hidden Gem on this East Lothian Golf Trip – Killspindie. How many courses can boast of a “magazine” and a “target” on their course? These small buildings were exactly that up to the end of the First World War when the local territorial army unit used the course as well as the golf club – in those days, golfers had to deal with hazards other than bunkers and the rough !
Day 5 Muirfield
The design layout is a masterpiece and highly unusual for links courses of this era. Most courses were laid out simply, nine out and nine back. Muirfield is different; it was the first to be designed with two concentric rings of nine holes. The outward nine holes run clockwise around the edge and the inward nine run anti-clockwise, sitting inside the outward nine. The layout ensures that the wind hits you from all directions. Host to fifteen Opens and ranked in the top 10 courses in the world Muirfield is truly iconic
Day 6 Dunbar
Well defined holes following the natural contours of a narrow strip of land between the old red sandstone deer park wall and the rocky shoreline are the hallmarks of these links. This is a course built upon those old fashioned golfing virtues of club selection and shot-making. With the ever-present – and ever-changing – wind off the sea, it demands accuracy and judgement, and rewards only bravery and skill.
Day 7 Gullane No.1
Carved into the ancient links turf with smooth-running greens, pot bunkers and wispy grasses Gullane No. 1 is a unique challenge for all golfers. Add to that the fabulous views across to Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, Fife and beyond and you have one of the world’s most cherished golfing experiences. With every hole having its own distinct character, Gullane No. 1 is both memorable and enjoyable, and undoubtedly one of Scotland’s finest and most scenic links courses.
Photo credit: Will Scott, The Glen Golf Club, Gullane, North Berwick, Muirfield & Killspindie
Beyond Muirfield, we regularly include North Berwick, Gullane (with its three exceptional courses), Dunbar, and the The Glen in our East Lothian Golf Trips. The beauty of this region is that you can stay in one location and play a different world-class course each day without lengthy transfers.
Having organized numerous East Lothian Golf Tours, we’ve seen how the combination of exceptional golf, charming coastal towns, stunning views across the Firth of Forth, and proximity to Edinburgh’s cultural attractions creates an unbeatable package. The region’s welcoming clubhouses and friendly locals add an authentic Scottish warmth that enhances every round. For golfers seeking quality over quantity, East Lothian delivers an unforgettable experience.
– How much does a Golf Trip to East Lothian Cost ?
Usually a 7 day East Lothian Golf Tour with a Chauffeur driver costs around €4,000-€7,000 depending on courses chosen, accommodation level and number in the group
– What’s the best time of year to visit East Lothian for good weather ?
Generally the weather is at its best in East Lothian from May – September although lower green fees and lodging rates can sometimes be found in April & October
– What are the best golf courses in East Lothian ?
The world renowned courses in East Lothian are Muirfield, North Berwick & Gullane No.1 although there are some spectacular hidden gems in the area such as The Glen, Killspindie & Dunbar
– How far in advance should I book a golf trip to East Lothian ?
For peak season (May-September), we recommend booking 18-24 months in advance to secure tee times at the premier courses such as Muirfield & North Berwick as tee times here fill up incredibly quickly
