Golf has been played at North Berwick for centuries but like a number of the small towns in East Lothian it is a unique place with a character all it’s own.  Today it is very much a suburban enclave for professional people who work in Edinburgh, the train connection which is under a half hour makes this an easy place to bring up a family in an environment with all the perks of a big city without the urban anxieties.

The West Links Golf Club dates back to 1832 and the place has all the attributes of a old school distinguished Scottish links.

North Berwick Clubhouse….handsome sandstone weathered to distinction

Trophy cases in the members bar glisten with pride

Wood paneled member’s board room has tradition coming out of it’s pores

The original members lockers are incorporated into the decor

List of the club Captains, as well as men’s and ladies champions, adorn the walls

There is no getting lost……

The golf shop….a simple understated building for such a famous links

Starter’s Lodge is somewhat updated

Even the weather vane has a themed message to it

There were volcanic eruptions in Scotland creating notable land forms

Lest you forget the course shares the shoreline beach with the locals

Bass, Lamb, and Fidra rocks may be the most iconic visuals of North Berwick

They lord over the links and present convenient aiming lines for the players

The ghostly appearance of Bass Rock behind the 17th for example

Then there is the kitchy course…you got this approach shot in your bag?

North Berwick is so much more than the Old Links, it is a quaint country town.  First class hotel, inns, kitchy shops, new age restaurants, and all the fixins.

The Marine Hotel has lavished visitors with high end service for generations

It sports a Children’s Pitch and Putt Course…you must be accompanied by a kid

The town bulletin board buys into the golf tradition of North Berwick

They do remember why many folks come and what they need

Narrow winding streets are full of local upscale shops and restaurants

It’s not without it’s rules, though apparently some don’t heed the promulgations

Like a good family place all creatures are welcome and treated with dignity

Even those without house training are accommodated in the public square

Trendy clothing that fits the young population’s vibe

Restaurants for all tastes

New age establishments….like Zitto’s Italian Wine Bar and Tapas

Even has an asymmetric new age business card

As it should, in the end it all comes back to treats for all ages

North Berwick…come for the revered links golf..but take time to borrow a child and play the pitch and putt, stroll the town for some shopping and a gelato,  or make time for  a tasty piece of Scottish salmon or a fine plate of pasta.  North Berwick is a special place….take the time to enjoy all that this lovely community has to offer.

July, 2016

(Click to read the Moegolf North Berwick Golf Club course review)