Bruntsfield Links
The Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society, founded in 1761, is the fourth oldest in the world and one of Scotland's most prestigious clubs with a long and distinguished history.
This mature parkland course, which was in superb condition on my visit in June 2022, was originally designed by Willie Park Jnr with later modifications by Dr Alister MacKenzie, James Braid and Fred Hawtree.
More recently in 2019, after a 2 year redevelopment by Tom Mackenzie of Ebert & Mackenzie, a new layout was opened with 6 new holes, 8 new greens and the bunkering completely renewed.
I had not seen the course pre the 2019 changes but it's fair to say it has elevated the course to arguably being the best in Edinburgh. I was not disappointed with what I found.
The turf is delightful to hit from, firm and springy. The tree and rough management is superb and there is just a lovely feel to golfing at this traditional venue.
The test of golf cannot be questioned either at this former Open Qualifying venue.
On my visit the course was playing firm so being on the fairway was important and you will need your best ball striking if you want to score well.
After a delightful opening hole the course meanders gently down and around before climbing back up near the clubhouse before we do similar on the back nine. There is a good mix of holes throughout and you will need to be able to shape the ball both ways.
