Best golf courses in Edinburgh

Edinburgh golf courses for historic parkland, city views and visitor-friendly rounds

Edinburgh is unusual among European capitals in offering a substantial range of golf courses within the city boundary. Visitors can play a historic private club, an affordable municipal course or a compact James Braid layout and still return to the city centre for dinner.

The courses are not interchangeable. Royal Burgess and Bruntsfield Links provide polished visitor experiences built around historic clubhouses and established parkland layouts. Duddingston offers a longer and more conventional championship-style test beneath Arthur’s Seat, while Merchants of Edinburgh compresses a strategic 18-hole course into the Craiglockhart Hills.

Braid Hills provides one of the city’s most distinctive public rounds. Its exposed upland terrain, blind shots, gorse and extensive views create an experience that feels very different from a manicured private club. Prestonfield, meanwhile, combines James Braid design features with a peaceful position immediately beside Holyrood Park.

The best choice depends on budget, ability, equipment requirements and the type of day being planned. A visiting golfer seeking a complete historic-club experience may be comfortable paying £180 to £220 for a premium course. Someone fitting golf around a short city break may prefer an accessible public round costing well below £50.

Before booking, golfers should consider:

• Whether visitors are accepted on the preferred day
• The seasonal green fee
• Handicap requirements
• Whether golf-club membership evidence is needed for a reduced rate
• Club, trolley or buggy availability
• Winter mats and temporary-course conditions
• Dress requirements
• Catering and changing facilities
• Pace of play
• Transport from the city centre
• Cancellation and refund terms

This guide focuses on Edinburgh courses that are currently open to visitors and provide a meaningful contrast in design, setting, heritage and price.

How the golf courses were selected

The courses were considered against factors relevant to local and visiting golfers:

• Course character: The layout should provide a distinctive and worthwhile round rather than relying on heritage or scenery alone.
• Visitor access: The club must currently offer identifiable visitor tee times, green fees or public bookings.
• Design and history: Original architects, later alterations and historic significance are considered where supported by the club.
• Condition and presentation: Course maintenance, greens and overall presentation contribute to the quality of the round.
• Value: The list includes premium clubs and lower-cost public courses rather than assuming the highest green fee represents the best experience.
• Facilities: Practice areas, equipment hire, changing rooms, catering and professional support are considered where available.
• Location: Each course is within Edinburgh and practical for a city-based golf trip.
• Suitability: The selection covers experienced golfers, casual visitors, groups, corporate days and players travelling without equipment.

Green fees, visitor times and course conditions change throughout the year. Golfers should confirm the current position when booking, particularly during winter or around club competitions.

What type of golf is available in Edinburgh?

Most courses within Edinburgh are parkland or upland rather than true coastal links.

Parkland courses generally feature:

• Tree-lined fairways
• Defined rough
• Strategically placed bunkers
• Softer visual boundaries
• More sheltered playing conditions
• Established putting surfaces
• Conventional out-and-back or looping layouts

Braid Hills is more difficult to classify neatly. It is an exposed upland municipal course with gorse, significant elevation and wide city views. Although it is not a seaside links, wind and firm ground can strongly influence play.

Edinburgh golfers can reach famous East Lothian links courses relatively easily, but they do not need to leave the city for a rewarding round. The capital’s strength lies in the variety available within a relatively compact area.

How much does it cost to play golf in Edinburgh?

Visitor prices range from affordable municipal golf to premium historic-club fees.

Current 2026 examples include:

These figures do not include equipment hire, food, caddies, transport or additional rounds.

Reduced prices may be available through:

• Twilight tee times
• Winter rates
• Scottish golf-club membership
• James Braid reciprocal arrangements
• Society packages
• Junior rates
• Student rates
• Open competitions
• Member guest rates
• Multi-course visitor passes
• Second-round discounts

The least expensive option is not always the best value for a particular trip. A golfer visiting Scotland once may place substantial value on the clubhouse and heritage at Royal Burgess. A local player primarily interested in regular golf may receive considerably more practical value from an Edinburgh Leisure membership.

Visitor green fees explained

A green fee normally covers access to the course for one round.

It may not include:

• Club hire
• Trolley hire
• Buggy hire
• Practice balls
• Food
• Locker use
• Towels
• Insurance
• Caddie services
• Competition entry
• Additional holes
• A second round

Some clubs provide a more complete visitor package. Royal Burgess, for example, offers a separate premium experience that can include a clubhouse tour, food, a forecaddie and other hospitality.

Society packages may bundle golf with breakfast rolls, lunch or dinner. These can be better value for groups than buying individual green fees and catering separately.

Do visitors need an official handicap?

Requirements vary.

Some private clubs may ask visitors to hold a recognised handicap or be competent golfers capable of maintaining an appropriate pace. Other courses accept golfers without an official handicap, provided they understand basic etiquette and can play safely.

Edinburgh Leisure’s municipal courses are intended to be accessible to a broad public audience and do not impose a formal dress code. They can be a more comfortable starting point for casual golfers or people who do not belong to another club.

Premium private courses should be contacted directly where:

• A golfer has no official handicap
• A player is relatively inexperienced
• The group includes juniors
• The booking involves a large difference in ability
• A disability affects pace or equipment needs
• The player wants to use a buggy
• Rental clubs are required

Being allowed to book does not remove the responsibility to keep pace with the group in front.

Booking a tee time

Most visitor rounds can be booked online, although clubs may reserve certain times for members and competitions.

Availability is affected by:

• Club medals and championships
• Open competitions
• Corporate days
• Society bookings
• Course maintenance
• Frost
• Heavy rain
• Winter daylight
• Member demand
• Weekend restrictions
• Seasonal visitor allocations

A golfer planning a specific Saturday during summer should book significantly earlier than someone seeking a flexible weekday round in March or October.

For a multi-course trip, the most restrictive tee time should be secured first. Transport and other rounds can then be arranged around it.

Playing golf during winter

Edinburgh golf remains available through much of the year, but winter conditions can alter the experience.

Possible restrictions include:

• Fairway mats
• Temporary greens
• Shortened courses
• Delayed starts
• No buggies
• No trolleys
• Carrying only
• Closed holes
• Frost delays
• Reduced daylight
• Lower equipment-hire availability

A discounted winter green fee reflects the increased possibility of restrictions.

Golfers travelling specifically to play should check the course-status page on the morning of the round. A course may be open but operating under conditions that differ materially from summer play.

Weather and course conditions

Edinburgh weather can change quickly. Wind is particularly influential at Braid Hills and on exposed parts of Merchants.

Useful items include:

• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Layered clothing
• Warm hat
• Spare gloves
• Golf umbrella
• Waterproof footwear
• Towel
• Drinks
• Sunscreen during summer
• A small carry bag where trolley use is uncertain

Umbrellas can become impractical in strong wind. Clothing that remains secure and allows free movement is usually more useful than relying solely on an umbrella.

Merchants of Edinburgh Golf Club

Media credits: merchantsgolf

Phone: 0131 447 1219

Website

Merchants of Edinburgh Golf Club offers a compact and highly strategic course among the Easter and Wester Craiglockhart Hills.

The club was founded in 1907. Ben Sayers created the original layout, which James Braid remodelled in 1936. Their work made imaginative use of a restricted and heavily contoured site, fitting 18 holes into approximately 68 acres.

The course plays to a par of 65 and contains seven par threes. It is not long by modern standards, but its difficulty is not accurately represented by yardage alone.

Sloping fairways, elevation changes, small targets and partially obscured landing areas reward controlled placement. A player repeatedly using a driver without considering position may leave more difficult approaches than someone selecting a shorter club from the tee.

The surrounding hills produce some of the most extensive golf-course views in Edinburgh. Depending on the point of the course and visibility, golfers can look towards Edinburgh Castle, the Firth of Forth, the Forth bridges, North Berwick Law and the Pentland Hills.

The elevated 13th, known as Tap o’ the World, is one of the most memorable holes. It is a long par three played from an exposed position where wind and elevation can alter the effective club choice. The course also retains a distinctive square green.

Merchants can be completed more quickly than many full-length par-70 or par-72 layouts. This is useful for visitors combining golf with a short Edinburgh stay or groups that want time for a meal in the city after the round.

Visitors and societies are welcome subject to tee-time availability.

Current peak-season visitor fees are:

• £60 on weekdays
• £75 at weekends
• £35 to £45 for visiting students
• £20 to £25 for juniors
• Reduced rates for qualifying James Braid club members

Peak season runs from 1 April to 30 September 2026. Lower off-peak rates are available outside that period.

Groups of eight or more can book golf-and-catering packages. Current society options combine 18 holes with breakfast rolls, soup and sandwiches or a meal in the club’s brasserie.

The clubhouse contains The Brasserie at Merchants and the Pentland Bar. Dining is open beyond the golf membership, making it possible for non-playing companions to meet the group before or after the round.

Parking is available in the club car park, accessed from Glenlockhart Road. The club asks visitors not to park in Craighill Gardens.

Facilities include

• 18-hole par-65 course
• PGA professional support
• Practice areas
• Putting facilities
• Professional shop
• Clubhouse changing facilities
• The Brasserie at Merchants
• Pentland Bar
• Visitor car park
• Society packages
• Corporate golf options
• Equipment and coaching enquiries

Best suited to: Visitors seeking a scenic, strategic and relatively quick round close to the city centre.

Pros

• Historic Ben Sayers and James Braid design
• Panoramic views across Edinburgh
• Compact 18-hole layout
• More affordable than the city’s premium private clubs
• Student and junior rates
• Society packages for groups of eight or more
• Clubhouse restaurant and bar
• Visitor parking
• Suitable for a round within a short city break
• Particularly rewarding for accurate players

The Royal Burgess Golfing Society

Media credits: murray3103golf

General enquiries: 0131 339 2075

Professional shop: 0131 339 6474

Website

The Royal Burgess Golfing Society traces its origins to 1735 and is widely recognised as the oldest established golf club in the world.

The Society initially played at Bruntsfield Links before moving to Musselburgh and later establishing its permanent Barnton course. Willie Park Jr designed the layout, which formally opened in 1895 after Old Tom Morris had assessed the ground.

James Braid subsequently influenced later course alterations.

The result is a mature parkland course approximately six miles from central Edinburgh and within convenient reach of Edinburgh Airport.

The routing passes through established woodland and uses strategic bunkering, doglegs and carefully defended greens. It provides a more conventional championship parkland experience than Braid Hills or Merchants while remaining playable by golfers selecting suitable tees.

Royal Burgess is as notable for its clubhouse as for the course. Construction began in 1896, and the Arts and Crafts building contains historic golfing artefacts, trophies and records connected to the Society’s long history.

Visitors are welcome rather than being limited to the guests of members.

The standard 2026 visitor green fee is £200 per person for one round. Members of UK golf clubs can currently book at £135 per person.

Visitor tee times are normally available each day outside Society competitions, although availability varies. Golfers can book online or contact the professional shop.

On arrival, visitors check in at the professional shop. Separate changing and shower facilities are available for men and women, with lockers provided for belongings.

Equipment hire currently includes:

• Premium club sets from established manufacturers: £40
• Push trolleys: £5
• GPS golf carts: £40

A hire club set includes a push trolley. Equipment should be reserved in advance rather than assumed to be available on arrival.

Royal Burgess also offers an enhanced Burgess Experience. This can include a clubhouse tour, locker for the day, food, a starter welcome, gift items, a dram on the first tee, forecaddie support and lunch. Pricing and availability are provided directly.

The standard visitor round is already a premium purchase. The enhanced package is most likely to appeal to international golfers, corporate groups and visitors for whom the history and hospitality are as important as the score.

The club maintains dress and conduct standards appropriate to a traditional private golf society. Visitors should read the current guidance before travelling, particularly when planning to use the dining room after the round.

Facilities include

• Historic 18-hole parkland course
• Professional shop
• Changing rooms and showers
• Day lockers
• Club hire
• Push-trolley hire
• GPS golf-cart hire
• Practice facilities
• Historic clubhouse
• Dining room
• Bar and hospitality
• Guided clubhouse experiences
• Forecaddie arrangements
• Edinburgh Airport access

Best suited to: Golfers seeking a premium historic-club experience with high-quality parkland golf and traditional clubhouse hospitality.

Pros

• Widely recognised as the world’s oldest established golf club
• Willie Park Jr course with later James Braid influence
• Mature parkland layout
• Exceptional historic clubhouse
• Visitors accepted on most days outside competitions
• Reduced rate for members of UK golf clubs
• High-quality rental clubs
• Changing, shower and locker facilities
• Complete premium visitor experience available
• Convenient for Edinburgh Airport

Braid Hills Golf Course

Media credits: g2_hickorygoose

Phone: 0131 458 2100

Website

Braid Hills is an 18-hole municipal course operated by Edinburgh Leisure.

Opened in 1893, it occupies exposed high ground in the south of the city. The course’s elevation produces extensive views over Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, the Firth of Forth and the surrounding landscape.

The terrain also shapes the golf.

Significant rises and falls, gorse, sloping lies and exposed greens require players to adjust constantly. A yardage measured in calm conditions may bear little resemblance to the effective distance when a strong wind crosses the hill.

Blind and partially obscured shots form part of the course’s historic character. First-time visitors should use the available hole information and avoid playing until the group ahead is safely out of range.

The layout rewards:

• Controlled ball flight
• Accurate iron play
• Conservative target selection
• Good distance judgement
• Comfort with uneven lies
• Patience in windy conditions

A golfer who keeps the ball in play may score well without exceptional length. A player repeatedly challenging gorse or attempting aggressive shots from difficult lies can lose balls and strokes quickly.

Braid Hills is one of the most affordable distinctive rounds available to Edinburgh visitors. Edinburgh Leisure’s public golf pricing currently begins at £36.50 for an 18-hole round across its municipal portfolio.

The exact casual price for Braid Hills should be checked through the booking system, as rates can vary by customer category and time.

Edinburgh Leisure members can bring up to three guests. The current Braid Hills member guest rate is £18.50. This rate cannot be booked in advance and is available as a walk-in arrangement when playing with the member.

The facility operates without cash and accepts card or contactless payments.

Clubs and trolleys can be hired. Buggies are not available because of the terrain. Equipment hire is restricted during the later part of each day, so anyone relying on rental clubs should book an earlier tee time and confirm availability.

Braid Hills has a free car park, toilets and vending machines for drinks and snacks. It does not provide the same clubhouse or dining experience as Royal Burgess, Bruntsfield Links or Duddingston.

There is no formal dress code on Edinburgh Leisure courses. This makes Braid Hills accessible to casual golfers and visitors who have travelled without traditional golf-club clothing.

The physical terrain should not be underestimated. Golfers with restricted mobility should review the available accessibility information and consider whether another course with buggy access would be more suitable.

Facilities include

• 18-hole public course
• Online casual booking
• Club hire
• Trolley hire
• Free visitor car park
• Toilets
• Drinks and snack vending
• Edinburgh Leisure memberships
• Member guest rates
• Short-stay golf passes
• No formal dress code

Best suited to: Golfers seeking an affordable, rugged and scenic Edinburgh round without the formality of a private club.

Pros

• Exceptional panoramic city views
• Historic municipal course
• Accessible public booking
• Affordable casual green fees
• No formal dress code
• Rental clubs and trolleys available
• Free parking
• Rewarding for accurate iron players
• Distinctive upland character
• Useful option for visitors travelling without equipment

Prestonfield Golf Club

Media credits: prestonfieldgolfclub

Phone: 0131 667 9665

Website

Prestonfield Golf Club occupies a quiet parkland site directly beside Holyrood Park and beneath Arthur’s Seat.

The club was formed in 1920, and the course was designed by James Braid. Its location creates an unusual sense of separation from the surrounding city despite being only a short journey from central Edinburgh.

The layout combines mature trees, bunkering and water hazards with views towards Arthur’s Seat. It plays to approximately 6,200 yards and a par of 70 from the principal men’s tees, although golfers should use the scorecard and tee markers appropriate to their ability.

Braid’s design rewards thoughtful positioning. Several holes invite a golfer to choose between challenging a hazard for a better approach angle and playing conservatively to a wider part of the fairway.

The 16th is a memorable par four requiring an approach across water. The correct strategy depends on tee position, wind, driving distance and the location of the flag.

Prestonfield was named Scottish Golf’s Club of the Year for 2025. The recognition reflects the wider club environment as well as the course itself.

Visitors are welcome, but green fees and available times should be confirmed through the current booking system. The club’s published visitor information may vary by season, day and booking type.

Golfers should also check:

• Whether a handicap is required
• Current dress requirements
• Availability of buggies or trolleys
• Winter mat rules
• Competition closures
• Catering times
• Practice-facility access

The club has a professional shop and purpose-built teaching and practice areas, together with a putting green.

Its location works particularly well for golfers staying around the Southside, Newington, Prestonfield or the eastern Old Town. It is also close enough to combine a morning round with an afternoon visit to Holyrood Park, the Palace of Holyroodhouse or the Royal Mile.

Prestonfield provides a more traditional club experience than Edinburgh’s municipal courses without the premium visitor pricing associated with the city’s oldest private societies.

Facilities include

• 18-hole James Braid parkland course
• Professional shop
• Golf coaching
• Practice areas
• Putting green
• Clubhouse
• Catering and social facilities
• Visitor tee times
• Society enquiries
• Motorised-transport arrangements
• Reciprocal golf benefits for members

Best suited to: Golfers wanting a traditional James Braid parkland course beside Arthur’s Seat and within easy reach of central Edinburgh.

Pros

• James Braid-designed layout
• Peaceful setting beside Holyrood Park
• Strong views of Arthur’s Seat
• Convenient city location
• Professional shop and coaching
• Dedicated practice areas
• Putting green
• Welcoming club environment
• Suitable for individual and society enquiries
• Good middle ground between municipal and premium private golf

Duddingston Golf Club

Professional shop: 0131 661 4301

Website

Duddingston Golf Club provides one of Edinburgh’s most substantial parkland rounds.

The course lies at the eastern side of Arthur’s Seat, close to Duddingston Village and Holyrood Park. Its setting combines mature woodland, water, established greens and views towards the surrounding hills.

The club dates from 1895, while the course has been shaped by several important figures in golf-course design. Its present character includes strategic James Braid influence and a testing but playable parkland routing.

Duddingston is longer and more conventionally championship-oriented than Merchants or Braid Hills. Players need to combine accurate driving with controlled approaches to greens protected by bunkers, slopes and water.

The course is still playable by a broad range of golfers when suitable tees are selected. Higher-handicap visitors should avoid assuming that the longest set of tees provides the proper experience.

The 13th, with its distinctive temple feature, is one of the course’s most recognisable settings. The wider layout also provides changing views of Arthur’s Seat and the Firth of Forth.

Visitors are accepted throughout the year, subject to tee-time restrictions and competitions.

Current 2026 green fees vary considerably by date and time:

• £120 for peak times from May to September
• £95 for standard shoulder times during the peak season
• £80 on Mondays from May to September
• £60 for twilight rounds beginning from 3 PM
• £50 in March
• £60 in April
• £70 in October
• £55 in November
• £40 from December to February, when winter mats are used

Junior visitors receive a 50% reduction from the applicable rate.

The Monday and twilight prices make Duddingston a useful option for visitors seeking a full private-club round without paying the maximum green fee.

A second round on the same day is charged at 50% of the applicable full rate. This allows dedicated golfers to arrange 36 holes at a lower combined price, subject to availability and daylight.

Rental equipment must be booked in advance. Current options include:

• Standard club hire with push trolley
• Premium club package with additional equipment
• Push trolleys
• GPS electric trolleys
• Single-seat buggies
• Two-seat buggies
• Shoe hire

Club and buggy hire are restricted to bookings within specified daytime periods. Twilight players should not assume equipment will be available.

Duddingston publishes a clear cancellation policy. Bookings cancelled at least seven days in advance receive a full refund. The refund falls to 50% when at least 48 hours’ notice is given, and cancellations within 48 hours are non-refundable.

Society rates are available for groups of at least 12, with golf-and-catering packages arranged separately.

Facilities include

• 18-hole parkland course
• Professional shop
• Club hire
• Push and electric trolley hire
• Single and two-seat buggies
• Shoe hire
• Practice facilities
• Golf lessons
• Clubhouse
• Catering
• Society packages
• Open competitions
• Visitor parking arrangements
• Second-round discount

Best suited to: Golfers wanting a full-length private-club round with flexible seasonal, Monday and twilight pricing.

Pros

• Substantial parkland layout
• Attractive setting beneath Arthur’s Seat
• Clear 2026 visitor pricing
• Discounted Monday and twilight rounds
• Reduced winter green fees
• Half-price second round
• Extensive rental equipment
• Buggy options
• Junior visitor discount
• Society packages for groups
• Published cancellation policy
• Open competitions throughout the season

Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society

Phone: Confirm the appropriate visitor contact when booking

Website

Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society is one of Scotland’s oldest golf societies and now plays at Barnton in north-west Edinburgh.

The Society’s origins reach back to the eighteenth century, although its current course is separate from the public short-hole golf on Bruntsfield Links near the Meadows.

This distinction matters for visitors. The Society’s full 18-hole course is at Barnton, close to Royal Burgess and Edinburgh Airport.

The mature parkland layout has hosted major amateur events and has been used as an Open Championship qualifying venue. It offers a polished private-club experience with tree-lined holes, strategically defended greens and a course designed to test accomplished golfers without relying solely on length.

Visitors are welcome and can book either 18 or 36 holes.

Current April-to-October 2026 prices are:

• £180 for an adult weekday round
• £220 for an adult weekend round
• £300 for 36 weekday holes
• £400 for 36 weekend holes
• £110 weekday rate for eligible Scottish golf-club or James Braid members
• £140 weekend rate for eligible Scottish golf-club or James Braid members

Winter rates fall considerably:

• £90 in November and March
• £60 from December to February

Mats may be required outside the main season.

The club’s expected pace is three hours and 45 minutes for 18 holes. Visitors are asked to choose appropriate tees, remain ready to play and maintain their position behind the group ahead.

Rental equipment includes:

• TaylorMade, Titleist or Callaway club sets
• Pull trolleys
• Two-seat buggies
• GPS electric trolleys

An 18-hole rental set costs £50 and includes golf balls, tees and a pull trolley. Buggies cost £45 for 18 holes, while GPS electric trolleys cost £20.

Bruntsfield Links is particularly well equipped for corporate and society days. The club can provide tournament administration, catering and private hospitality within the clubhouse.

The Sandy Watson Room contains displays of historic golfing material, including hickory clubs, featherie balls and artwork. This gives groups an element of golfing heritage without requiring the more elaborate premium package offered by Royal Burgess.

The standard visitor price places Bruntsfield among Edinburgh’s premium rounds. Golfers who qualify for the Scottish-club or James Braid rate receive a materially lower price and should bring evidence of eligibility.

Facilities include

• 18-hole championship parkland course
• 36-hole visitor bookings
• Professional shop
• Premium club hire
• Pull-trolley hire
• GPS electric-trolley hire
• Two-seat buggy hire
• Changing facilities
• Clubhouse catering
• Private hospitality rooms
• Corporate golf support
• Tournament administration
• Historic golf displays
• Edinburgh Airport access

Best suited to: Experienced golfers, society groups and corporate visitors seeking a premium course with strong clubhouse and event facilities.

Pros

• Historic Scottish golfing society
• Open-qualifying-standard course
• Mature parkland layout
• 18-hole and 36-hole visitor rates
• Reduced rates for eligible Scottish and James Braid members
• Premium rental equipment
• Buggy and GPS trolley hire
• Defined pace-of-play standard
• Strong corporate-day facilities
• Private hospitality spaces
• Historic clubhouse displays
• Convenient north-west Edinburgh location

Which Edinburgh golf course may suit different players?

The six courses provide substantially different experiences.

For the strongest historic experience

Royal Burgess offers the most complete combination of golfing history, clubhouse architecture and premium hospitality.

Bruntsfield Links is another strong choice for a traditional private-club day, particularly for groups or golfers interested in 36 holes.

For affordable public golf

Braid Hills provides the most distinctive low-cost round in the selection.

Its scenery and terrain make it more than a simple budget alternative, although the physical demands and lack of buggy hire need to be considered.

For a quick city round

Merchants of Edinburgh is particularly useful where time is limited.

The par-65 layout is shorter than most full-length courses but requires accurate placement and remains a meaningful challenge.

For a full parkland test

Duddingston offers a substantial private-club course with several price levels.

Its Monday and twilight rates provide a practical compromise between course quality and visitor cost.

For James Braid enthusiasts

Merchants, Prestonfield and Duddingston all carry identifiable James Braid influence.

Merchants is the most compact and unusual of the three, Prestonfield provides a traditional course beneath Arthur’s Seat, and Duddingston offers the more substantial championship-style round.

For golfers without their own clubs

Royal Burgess, Bruntsfield Links, Duddingston and Braid Hills all advertise equipment-hire options.

Equipment should be reserved in advance, particularly where a whole group requires sets.

For corporate or society golf

Bruntsfield Links provides extensive tournament and clubhouse support.

Merchants offers clearly priced society packages for groups of eight or more, while Duddingston provides society rates for groups of at least 12.

For golfers staying near Edinburgh Airport

Royal Burgess and Bruntsfield Links are both in the north-west of Edinburgh and relatively convenient for the airport.

They can work well as the first or final round of a wider Scottish golf trip.

Municipal golf in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Leisure operates six public golf courses:

• Braid Hills
• Carrick Knowe
• Craigentinny
• Portobello
• Silverknowes
• Wee Braids

These courses broaden access to golf and provide options for different ability levels.

Carrick Knowe, Craigentinny and Silverknowes offer buggy hire, subject to availability and course conditions. Portobello and Wee Braids provide shorter formats, while Braid Hills is the most dramatic and demanding of the municipal layouts.

A regular Edinburgh Leisure golf membership includes access to all six courses. Casual pay-as-you-play booking is also available.

Short-stay visitors can consider three-day and seven-day golf passes where several municipal rounds are planned.

Municipal courses are useful for:

• Beginners developing course experience
• Casual golfers
• Families
• Players without club membership
• Visitors seeking lower green fees
• Golfers who prefer no formal dress code
• People fitting a round around other activities
• Players wanting several courses under one pass

The facilities are more limited than at private clubs. Golfers should not expect a historic clubhouse, full restaurant and extensive changing rooms at every municipal venue.

Golf equipment hire

Travelling with golf clubs can add airline fees and logistical difficulty.

Rental can be practical, but quality varies.

Before reserving, ask:

• Which club brands are available?
• Are right- and left-handed sets offered?
• Are women’s sets available?
• Are junior clubs available?
• Does the set include a driver, putter and sand wedge?
• Is a bag included?
• Is a trolley included?
• Can the set be reserved for a specific tee time?
• What happens if the equipment is damaged?
• Are golf balls and tees included?
• Is hire available for twilight rounds?
• Can the clubs be used for a second round?

Royal Burgess and Bruntsfield Links advertise premium branded sets. Duddingston provides standard and premium options. Edinburgh Leisure offers more functional hire intended to make public golf accessible.

Golfers with unusual specifications may still prefer to travel with their own equipment.

Buggy availability and accessibility

A golf buggy should never be assumed to be available.

Restrictions may arise because of:

• Terrain
• Wet ground
• Frost
• Course policy
• Limited buggy numbers
• Time of day
• Safety
• Maintenance
• A requirement for medical approval

Braid Hills does not offer buggies because of the terrain.

Duddingston and Bruntsfield Links advertise buggy hire, while Royal Burgess provides GPS golf carts. Prestonfield asks players requiring motorised transport to follow its relevant policy and contact the club in advance.

Anyone who cannot complete a round without a buggy should receive confirmation before paying a non-refundable green fee.

Accessible golf involves more than the availability of a cart. Golfers may also need to ask about:

• Step-free clubhouse entry
• Accessible toilets
• Changing facilities
• Parking distance
• Routes between the clubhouse and first tee
• Single-seat buggies
• Restrictions on taking buggies near greens
• Assistance from the professional shop

Golf society and group bookings

A society day generally requires more planning than reserving several adjacent tee times.

The organiser should establish:

• Minimum group size
• Deposit requirements
• Final payment date
• Cancellation terms
• Tee-time interval
• Competition format
• Handicap rules
• Nearest-the-pin and longest-drive options
• Scorecard preparation
• Catering
• Dietary requirements
• Changing facilities
• Equipment hire
• Prize presentation space
• Arrival time
• Parking
• Weather contingencies

Merchants publishes packages for groups of eight or more. Duddingston’s society arrangements begin at 12 players, while Bruntsfield Links provides more extensive corporate and tournament support.

A lower per-person package may apply only on particular days or during defined hours.

Corporate golf days

Golf can work well for client hospitality, but the organiser should avoid assuming every attendee plays regularly.

A balanced corporate event may include:

• Appropriate tee selection
• Texas scramble or team formats
• Rental equipment
• Introductory professional support
• Breakfast or coffee on arrival
• On-course refreshments
• Post-round meal
• Non-golf hospitality
• Clear dress guidance
• Transport
• A reasonable finish time

A scramble can be more inclusive than individual stroke play because less experienced golfers are not required to complete every hole with their own ball.

The course should know the ability range before the event so it can advise on format and pace.

Golf etiquette for visitors

Basic etiquette helps protect the course and keeps play moving.

Visitors should:

• Arrive before the published check-in time
• Check in before going to the first tee
• Carry suitable pitch-mark and divot-repair tools
• Repair pitch marks
• Replace or fill divots where required
• Rake bunkers
• Keep trolleys away from greens and tees
• Follow buggy-route instructions
• Remain behind the group in front
• Play a provisional ball where appropriate
• Limit time spent searching for balls
• Allow faster groups through where practical
• Avoid unnecessary noise
• Follow local safety instructions
• Observe dress rules
• Respect staff, members and other visitors

A visitor green fee buys access to the course, not exemption from its standards.

Pace of play

Slow play can undermine an otherwise excellent round.

Practical ways to maintain pace include:

• Selecting tees appropriate to ability
• Playing ready golf where safe
• Preparing before it is time to hit
• Watching all shots carefully
• Taking more than one club to a ball
• Reading putts while others play
• Marking scores away from the green
• Using provisional balls
• Limiting practice swings
• Picking up when no longer able to score in a social format

Bruntsfield Links sets a target of three hours and 45 minutes for 18 holes.

Shorter courses are not automatically faster. Elevation, blind shots, gorse and difficult greens can slow play if the group is unprepared.

Dress codes

Dress expectations vary significantly.

Edinburgh Leisure courses have no formal dress code.

Private clubs may require recognised golf clothing and appropriate footwear. Some impose additional clubhouse or dining-room standards.

Before visiting a private club, check rules regarding:

• Denim
• Cargo trousers
• Sports jerseys
• Collarless shirts
• Tailored shorts
• Golf shoes
• Changing footwear indoors
• Hats in the clubhouse
• Waterproof clothing in dining areas
• Jacket and tie requirements
• Mobile-phone use

The original article’s suggestion that every Royal Burgess visitor requires formal attire is too broad. The club retains traditional standards, but the correct requirement depends on the part of the clubhouse being used and the current visitor guidance.

Golf near Edinburgh without a car

A car is useful but not essential for every course.

Possible transport includes:

• Taxi or private hire
• Local bus
• Tram followed by taxi
• Hotel golf transfer
• Society coach
• Pre-arranged club transport
• Walking from nearby accommodation

Golf bags can make ordinary public transport inconvenient at busy times.

Royal Burgess and Bruntsfield Links are relatively close to Edinburgh Airport. Prestonfield and Duddingston are accessible from the eastern and southern city centre, while Merchants and Braid Hills are in south Edinburgh.

A taxi should be booked with enough space for clubs and luggage. Four golfers with full-size bags may require a larger vehicle.

Combining Edinburgh with East Lothian golf

Edinburgh makes a practical base for golfers who also want to play coastal courses in East Lothian.

Possible areas include:

• Musselburgh
• Gullane
• North Berwick
• Aberlady
• Dunbar

These destinations provide genuine links golf and a different playing experience from Edinburgh’s inland parkland courses.

A balanced itinerary could combine:

• One historic Edinburgh club
• One affordable city course
• One or two East Lothian links rounds
• A rest or sightseeing day

Driving times vary considerably with traffic. Early tee times in East Lothian should not be planned using optimistic off-peak journey estimates.

Open competitions

Open competitions can provide access to a private course at a lower price than a standard visitor green fee.

Formats may include:

• Individual stroke play
• Stableford
• Four-ball better ball
• Greensomes
• Texas scramble
• Senior opens
• Junior opens
• Ladies’ opens
• Mixed competitions
• Scratch events

Eligibility normally depends on:

• Golf-club membership
• A valid handicap index
• Age or gender category
• Entry deadlines
• Competition terms
• Maximum handicap allowances

Duddingston publishes a substantial schedule of open competitions. Similar events are available at many Edinburgh clubs.

An open entry is not the same as a casual visitor booking. Competitors must follow the event rules and return an acceptable score where required.

Frequently asked questions

Final booking checklist

Before paying for an Edinburgh tee time:

• Confirm the correct course and address.
• Check visitor access for the selected day.
• Review the current green fee.
• Confirm whether the rate requires club membership.
• Check handicap requirements.
• Read the cancellation policy.
• Reserve rental clubs in advance.
• Confirm left-handed or women’s sets where needed.
• Book a buggy where essential.
• Check winter mat and trolley rules.
• Review the dress code.
• Allow sufficient check-in time.
• Confirm catering hours.
• Plan transport for golfers and equipment.
• Check the expected pace of play.
• Review the course status on the morning of the round.
• Carry waterproof clothing.
• Select tees appropriate to ability.
• Disclose mobility requirements before payment.
• Keep the booking confirmation accessible.

Edinburgh’s golf offering is strongest because of its range. Royal Burgess and Bruntsfield Links provide premium historic-club days; Duddingston supplies a substantial parkland test; Merchants turns a compact hillside site into a strategic and scenic round; Prestonfield offers James Braid golf beneath Arthur’s Seat; and Braid Hills makes one of the capital’s most dramatic settings accessible at a public price.

The right course is therefore determined less by a universal ranking than by the experience the golfer wants, the time available and the amount they are comfortable spending.

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