Muirfield

Muirfield is the home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers and has hosted the Open Championship 16 times, the most recent one in 2013 which saw Phil Mickelson lift the Claret Jug. The distinctive layout and balance shown throughout each hole makes this links course very special and unique. 

In this blog post, we’ve shared some of our favourite places to eat, shop and visit nearby this world renowned golf course – and of course our top tips for playing Muirfield as part of the Old Tom Morris Trail… 

Course design

The design layout of the course can be described as a masterpiece and is very unique for a links course. Most golf courses are laid out simply, nine holes out and nine holes back, whereas at Muirfield the opening nine holes circle clockwise around the perimeter while the inward nine run anticlockwise on an inner circuit. As a result of this layout, golfers have to be able to adapt to the strong coastal winds that can hit them from all sides.

Whether you are a professional or an amateur, Muirfield offers a very well-balanced course that allows players of all abilities to participate on this exceptional golf course.

The fairway landing areas are mostly flat with very few of the 150 bunkers being hidden. With relatively small greens and well placed bunkers, it is unusual for a good shot to be punished.

Course history

The original course at Muirfield was a 16-holer created by Old Tom Morris and the ground on which it was created was limited by the land initially leased by the club. In 1922, the ground was then purchased and an additional 50 acres of links land was bought. 

The layout of the course was revised in 1925 by Harry Colt and was enhanced by Tom Simpson in the 1930s. Skipping forward to 2011 the most recent design of the course was refined by Martin Hawtree and  can now be seen today as an “internationally admired golfing challenge” which is shown through its impressive world rankings. 

Regional history

The nearest town to the Muirfield golf course is a stunning village called Gullane which is located along the coast of the Firth of Forth. Gullane is an ancient village with a rich history stretching back to  the 9th century. . The local church built in the 800s church was later replaced in the 1100s by St. Andrews Kirk, whose ruins still remain at the west end of the main street. 

The village is known for its multiple golf courses and breathtaking sweeping beach which is popular with tourists and watersport enthusiasts during the summer months, particularly windsurfers. Many of the homes in Gullane are grand villas which boast incredible views over the nearby golf courses or sea. 

Local hospitality and retail

Where to stay

For those who are looking for a touch of luxury, the Greywalls Hotel is an incredible Scottish Edwardian country house located on the edge of Muirfield. The property contains a walled garden which stretches for approximately six acres and was designed by Sir Edwin Luytens in 1901. 

Nestled in the heart of Gullane, The Bonnie Badger offers a modern and upbeat stay. From The Stables restaurant to The Garden, this establishment offers plenty of places to sit back, relax and appreciate your surroundings.

If you’re looking for a more cosy and traditional getaway, The Castle Inn is a family-run village pub and hotel with a large beer garden, perfect for summer drinks.

Where to eat

Following the philosophy of ‘From Nature to Plate’, The Bonnie Badger hosts an extensive selection of food and drink. From The Stables to The Broc Bar, there are plenty of different settings to enjoy a delicious meal or drinks with family and friends.

The Old Clubhouse is the perfect place to enjoy some excellent Scottish hospitality. With a vast menu of local produce including fresh fish and appetising steaks, you are sure to find some good old fashioned pub grub with a modern twist.

For all the coffee lovers out there, The Goose on the Green is an excellent independent cafe that serves delicious food and drink all sourced from local suppliers who provide the finest ingredients- there is certainly nothing better than a steaming hot cup of coffee coupled with a freshly made sweet treat.

Where to shop

If you have some time to spare during your trip, Gullane has lots of lovely gift shops to explore including BlackHouse and the Old Smiddy which are full of wee Scottish souvenirs and goodies. 

Expand your alcoholic knowledge by taking a trip to Glenkichie Distillery. Located just 15 minutes from Gullane , Glenkichie is famous for distilling ‘Edinburgh Malt’ which is an important component of Johnnie Walker whiskies. From guided tours to cocktail classes, put your taste buds to the test and pick yourself up a locally distilled tipple. 

The Muirfield Pro Shop offers a wide selection of leading golfing brands alongside golf clothing complete with the prestigious club logo- what better way to commemorate your trip than by picking up a piece of unique golfing apparel!

Iconic landmarks

Saltcoats Castle is a rare find and difficult to spot from a distance, located just half a mile south of Gullane the castle can be accessed from the village. The castle was built by the Livingstone family with the initials of Peter Livingstone and his wife, Margret Fettis of Fawside being found on the armorial panel. 

The East coast of Scotland is certainly not short of beautiful beaches for those who enjoy the peace and calm of the seaside. Yellowcraigs beach is a popular family beach that is surrounded by forest and grassland with a network of trails running throughout. . Additionally, Gullane beach boasts excellent views out onto the Firth of Forth and is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing on a windy day.

The best photo spots

• Yellowcraig beach
• Gullane Bents
• Sandcoats Castle
• Prestonpans battlefield viewpoint

Our top tips for playing this course

• Enjoy the famous Muirfield experience with lunch followed by afternoon Foursomes (alternate shot)
• Be sure to take formal attire for lunch
• Stay out of the bunkers, especially off the tee
• Listen to your caddie
• Enjoy a Kummel in the clubhouse

Watch Stephen Proctor’s Muirfield Dispatch here