"The climb up the hill on the front nine buys you the best view in East Lothian golf; club selection swings wildly between the sheltered low holes and the exposed hilltop."

Golf has been played on Gullane Hill since the 17th century, and the club itself dates to 1882, with No. 1 reaching 18 holes by 1884 — its architect, remarkably, was never recorded. The course does something almost no true links does: it climbs. The routing works up and over Gullane Hill, opening staggering views across the Firth of Forth, then tumbles back down. It has hosted more championships than any East Lothian course except neighboring Muirfield — including the 2015 Scottish Open, won by Rickie Fowler over a stacked field, and the 2018 edition, plus Open final qualifying.

Every links pilgrim doing the East Lothian coast. It's the accessible sibling to Muirfield next door, with tour-proven substance and the best views in the county.

The 7th, played from near the crest of Gullane Hill, is the postcard — a plunging drive with the entire Firth of Forth spread below. The climb up (holes 2-3) earns it, and the run home along the lower ground plays every yard into the prevailing wind.

Firm, fast, windy championship links with punishing rough — not a beginner course, though the turf is honest and there are few forced carries. Bring humility and a wind game.

Gullane No. 1 exists in GSPro as a community recreation and it's a superb sim links: the hill's elevation changes and firm-running ground translate well. Set a healthy wind and it becomes a genuine Scottish Open test for Clubhouse's better players.

A private members' club that genuinely welcomes visitors — book online well ahead. Peak-season No. 1 green fees run around £200; spring and autumn rates and combined-course days soften it.