Gullane - No. 1 Course

A majestic East Lothian links with stunning coastal views and world-class tournament pedigree. Gullane No. 1 is elegant, exposed, and expertly crafted.

Slope Rating

133

Par

71

Yardage

6,873

Gullane No. 1 is one of Scotland’s great championship links – a sweeping, scenic course that rises dramatically above the Firth of Forth and offers one of the most beautiful walks in golf. Founded in 1884, it’s hosted the Scottish Open and numerous elite amateur events. The routing climbs Gullane Hill early, providing panoramic views from the 3rd tee all the way to Edinburgh and Fife. From there, the course rolls back through classic links terrain – open, firm, and wind-exposed. It’s immaculately conditioned with generous fairways, but the greens are cunningly contoured and often hard to hold. The par-3 7th and par-5 3rd are highlights, while the 17th and 18th provide a tough finish. With changes in elevation, strategic bunkering, and the ever-present wind, it demands strong course management. Gullane No. 1 feels timeless – dignified without being flashy, stern without being brutal. If you’re looking for traditional Scottish links with big views and serious quality, this is it.

Designer

Original layout by Willie Park Jr. (1884), with natural evolution over time

Opened

1884

Tee time availability

Fair

Special information

Open to visitors, though tee times in summer can book out months in advance. Best paired with No. 2 or No. 3 for a full Gullane day.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

63 – Rickie Fowler (Scottish Open, 2015)

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Recommended – particularly for wind reads and uphill/downhill strategy

Buggies

Permitted with medical certificate only

Control trajectory and manage spin into firm greens. Trust your yardages, especially with elevation changes. Take advantage of the downwind holes and play smart into the breeze.

Stick to conservative lines – avoid trying to overpower. Greenside trouble is the biggest threat. Stay below the hole and club up into the wind.

Playable with some forgiveness off the tee. Avoid long carries and bring extra balls. You’ll love the walk and the views – it’s a day to remember.

Green speed

9 – firm and slick, but fair in the wind

Wind

A major factor. Exposed from all directions – prevailing wind is westerly, but swirls near the hill

Pace of play

Well managed – three courses spread the traffic. Staff and marshals keep the flow moving

Nerves on the first tee

Moderate. Elevated first tee with views down the coast. It’s scenic, not intimidating

Clubhouse

Traditional and refined – excellent pro shop, locker rooms, and views across the 18th green

The 3rd rises to the summit of Gullane Hill with incredible views. The 7th is a long, downhill par-3 into the prevailing wind. The 17th, a dogleg par-4, often plays into a crosswind and sets up a demanding finish to the round.

East Lothian’s dry, sunny microclimate keeps the course firm and fast. Winds off the Firth can be sharp, but rain is less frequent than elsewhere in Scotland. Best light in late afternoon.