The 13th oldest golf club in the world, North Berwick is second only to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club in St. Andrews for continuous play over the same course. The West Links was originally 6 holes, with a 7th added before it was extended to 18 holes in 1877. One of the most natural links in the world, North Berwick may not be the longest of courses at 6,420 yards but rest assured that successful navigation requires the full repertoire of shot making.
Like all golf courses of similar historical origins, North Berwick has its own stories to tell - some good, some funny and some tragic. In the early days, matches between leading professionals were frequent and attracted thousands of spectators. In September 1875, one such match pitted Willie and Mungo Park against Young and Old Tom Morris. The match ended abruptly when a telegram arrived with the news that Young Tom's wife was seriously ill after the birth of their son. Tragically, both Mother & Son subsequently died and so devastating was the news to the 25-year old "legend", that Young Tom, already triple Open Champion, died 3 months later.
The course itself has been described as being from a primitive age, a statement that must not be perceived as taking anything away from its undeniable quality. The simple fact is that North Berwick has to a large extent evolved naturally with little assistance from mankind, a fact reflected in the name of the principle course architect - Mother Nature herself. Each hole on this stimulating links, which regularly hosts final qualifying for the British Open, poses different tests of judgement and skill. A unique golfing experience, North Berwick boasts blind holes, spectacular views, drives over walls and burns and bunkers deep enough for golfers to disappear from view. Many holes have been copied by designers all over the world; most commonly the 376-yard, 14th, named "Perfection" and the 192-yard 15th hole called "Redan", which has been replicated in both Pebble Beach and Shinnecock Hills.
Like many of the great holes in golf, first impressions of "Redan" can be deceptive and it is only through playing the hole a number, that the golfer can truly appreciate its hidden subtleties. The mounds, ridges and depressions that were left after the sea receded give the course its natural contours and the 15th hole was part of that evolution. For the player on the tee, the green is blind and the shaped shot, which is demanded to battle with the prevailing wind, can be struck with anything from a driver to a nine iron.
ONLINE GOLF TRAVEL RATING
One of the most traditional links golf courses in Scotland; along with Muirfield, Gullane and Dunbar, the West Links at North Berwick completes the list of links golf courses in the must-play category in the Edinburgh region.
Situated just off the A198 route, less than a mile west of North Berwick and about 28 miles northeast of Edinburgh.
NEARBY RESTAURANTS:
The Open Arms Hotel, Dirleton EH39 5EG.
Tel: + 44 1620 850241. Email: openarms@clara.co.uk.
The Library dining room offers a selection of culinary classics. Local produce abounds, while the dishes might include fillet of Aberdeen Angus beef or duck breast baked on lemon grass.
Greywalls, Muirfield, Gullane EH31 2EG
Tel: + 44 1620 842144. Email: hotel@greywalls.co.uk.
Overlooking Muirfield Golf Club, guests dine in an elegant atmosphere, while the chef cooks uncomplicated fare allowing the quality and freshness of the ingredients to dominate.
Bonars Restaurant, Poldrate Mill, Tyne House, Haddington EH41 4AD
Tel: + 44 1620 822100. Email: bonars@lineone.net.
Ideally suited to the rustic interior of the restaurant, the menu is simple and assured. And if you're looking for a treat, try the peppered sea bass with lobster and saffron risotto.
The 13th oldest golf club in the world, North Berwick is second only to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club in St. Andrews for continuous play over the same course. The West Links was originally 6 holes, with a 7th added before it was extended to 18 holes in 1877. One of the most natural links in the world, North Berwick may not be the longest of courses at 6,420 yards but rest assured that successful navigation requires the full repertoire of shot making.
