Why Play

The West Links delivers an unusually rich combination of history, strategy and theatre. The course runs beside the Firth of Forth with Bass Rock on the horizon, yet its lasting appeal comes from the golf itself: stone walls cross lines of play, greens sit behind dunes, and several holes have become templates copied internationally.

Course Character

North Berwick is compact, walkable and constantly engaging. The routing changes direction often, so the wind rarely feels the same for long. Firm turf encourages running shots, while natural humps, hollows and angled greens reward golfers who can visualise more than one route.

The course’s quirks are strategic rather than decorative. A wall, bunker or ridge may look eccentric, but each asks a clear question about trajectory, position or nerve.

Playing Intelligence

• Use the ground: running approaches are often safer and more predictable than high shots.
• Play to the correct side: approach angles matter, particularly when walls or bunkers narrow the direct route.
• Control distance in the wind: coastal gusts can change quickly around exposed greens.
• Accept the unusual: do not force a conventional shot when the hole invites a creative one.
• Keep something in reserve: the closing stretch remains demanding when the wind is against.

Signature Holes

13th — Pit

A famous par four where a stone wall guards the green and transforms the approach into a test of distance, trajectory and imagination.

14th — Perfection

A strategic two-shot hole where position from the tee determines whether the green can be approached with control.

15th — Redan

The original Redan, with its angled green and protective hazards, became one of the most copied par-three concepts in golf architecture.

16th — Gate

A distinctive late hole whose separated green sections and contours demand precise judgement.

Visitor Information

Visitor tee times are available, subject to seasonal schedules, club competitions and the club’s current booking policy. Reserve well in advance for peak months and confirm handicap requirements, dress code, trolley availability and check-in procedures before travelling.

Stay • Play • Recover

Stay: North Berwick offers luxury coastal hotels, guest houses and self-catering accommodation within easy reach of the course.

Play: Combine the West Links with Muirfield, Gullane, Dunbar and other East Lothian courses.

Recover: Wind and firm turf can make the round more tiring than the yardage suggests. Hydrate, stretch calves and hips, and leave time for a relaxed meal overlooking the coast.

Clubhouse & Dining

The clubhouse provides a traditional links-golf setting close to the first tee and town. Visitors should check current dining times, dress expectations and access arrangements when confirming their booking.

Practice Facilities

Before playing, focus on low-flight irons, long putting, bump-and-run shots and controlled bunker escapes. Allow enough time to adjust to the speed and firmness of the links turf.

Nearby Luxury Accommodation

• Marine North Berwick: a prominent seafront hotel with spa facilities and easy course access.
• Greywalls Hotel: a refined country-house option beside Muirfield.
• The Bonnie Badger: a characterful luxury base in Gullane.
• Edinburgh: suitable for golfers combining East Lothian with a city break.

Peak summer dates and major golf weeks should be booked early.