Why You Should Play Golf at Gullane

When it comes to Scottish golf, the usual suspects are typically at the tip of your tongue: St Andrews, Carnoustie, Gleneagles and Turnberry.

All of these facilities undoubtedly belong to the world-class category, but there are others that are just as notable and reputable - Gullane Golf Club being one of them.

The allure of the historic Gullane lies in the form of three exceptional golf courses, with No. 1 being constructed during the 19th century.

Before we dive into the specifics of this Scottish facility, let’s explore the history and how the club has managed to stay not only relevant but successful for more than 100 years.

History

The golf club of Gullane was established in 1882, although the earliest records would indicate that golf has been played over Gullane Links for longer than 350 years.

Nearing the end of the 19th century, eight gentleman discussed the links that surrounded the area and decided that it must be kept in acceptable order and that a golf club should be formed.

During the first year there were 32 members who joined the team of eight, before another 125 would sign up across the following 12 months.

Today, more than 1,200 proud members belong to Gullane Golf Club - all thanks to the vision of eight men more than 130 years ago.

Golf

Although Gullane has a premium course - No. 1 - all three can provide a wonderful day of entertainment.

When golfing in Scotland, it does not get much more exciting than experiencing the richness of Gullane.

Considering there are three layouts, let’s start in numerical order and the biggest of them all: No. 1.

Dating back to 1884, No. 1 holds special relevance to Scottish golf and its challenge remains just as tough as its originality.

The turf is a huge benefit of Gullane, as winter rules are rarely - if ever - deployed, due to the pure interaction the club makes with the ground.

There’s a fair amount of elevation changes, which is unusual for links courses, and this will require your attention from the off.

As is standard with Scottish golf courses, scenery dominates the layout and the panoramic view from the 7th tee is an obvious standout.

Considering its hosting of many important tournaments - Open Championship Final Qualifying and several Scottish Opens - its appeal expands far beyond the amateur golfer.

No. 2 runs adjacent to No. 1 for the opening seven holes and starts primarily flat before transitioning into a gentle climb uphill.

Similarly to the other courses situated on-site, Gullane No. 2 exudes an open presentation - but there is invariably trouble on every hole.

Again, No. 2 has played host to Open Championship Final Qualifying, which should highlight its difficulty.

For the ultimate day on Gullane Hill, we recommend playing No. 1 and 2 for a great test of your golf game.

Finally for No. 3, and although it might not share the plaudits of its more iconic siblings, it can be enjoyed by a wider range of ability.

Measuring only 5,252 yards, a lack of length should not be an issue for all visitors, but be warned, what it lacks in distance it certainly makes up for in difficulty on the greens.

Featuring strategic bunkering and glass-like putting surfaces, the key to scoring well on No. 3 is being confident in your touch and feel.

A common misconception about No. 3 is the depth of inferiority, in contrast to the other two, but that’s simply not true.

Its length may not be intimidating, but the tightness off the tee and the need to make intelligent decisions is what No. 3 demands.

Whatever loop you tackle, you are guaranteed a lot of fun at Gullane - and we highly advise you experience all three.

Accommodation

Gullane do not have the services to offer overnight stay, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t local establishments who can fill the void.

The Nether Abbey Hotel is one popular hotspot for golfers visiting Gullane and it is a family run hotel that is situated in North Berwick.

There are a finite amount of rooms available but please be aware that due to the many golfing facilities located in this area, they are often heavily booked - so prior preparation is advised.

Jury’s Inn Edinburgh is also another option for travellers, and with 186 rooms available, they can accommodate more than Nether Abbey.

All double rooms are suitable for three adults and they feature en-suite bathrooms, although you can upgrade for extra benefits that include high speed Wi-Fi and a complimentary newspaper.

For more information, please visit Golfbreaks.

Gastronomy

Whilst Gullane cannot offer accommodation, there are two clubhouses that you can visit for refreshments.

The Members’ Clubhouse rests behind the first tee at No. 1, featuring distinctive white walls to create a powering building.

Both members and visitors that are playing No. 1 can experience a warm welcome from those working within the Members’ Clubhouse.

The alternative hub is Gullane Links Clubhouse, which is open to both members and visitors who are playing the alternative two courses.

Packed inside is a locker room, pro shop and bar that features a wide range of catering facilities - which would be ideal for travelling societies.

Of the two, the Links Clubhouse exudes a more relaxed atmosphere, and the Sun Terrace is the perfect location to enjoy food and drink after a demanding and tiring round on the links.

Leisure Activities

Gullane is unique as it has its own Heritage of Golf Museum, which highlights how the game of golf has developed since its arrival in Scotland between 1400 to 1500.

Visitors will understand the humble beginnings, how early golf clubs were designed and the success and failures of the sport’s original roots.

If the museum interests you, then booking is via appointment only and you can contact the club on (44) 0 1620 842 744 to reserve your time slot for when you visit.

Gullane is a proud Scottish golfing facility that dates back to the 19th century, when the first golf course was designed and constructed.

With three tremendous layouts on-site, a museum and two excellent clubhouses, a day in East Lothian is one that is remembered.