dunbar

Dunbar Links is set in an area rich in the history of both Scotland and Scottish golf. The site of the course is said to be where Oliver Cromwell set up camp, to rest his troops, before the Battle of Dunbar, more than 350 years ago.
This ancient links is set at the end of a string of historic courses including North Berwick and Gullane, facing across the Firth of Forth towards Lundin Links.

Golf has been played in this area for more than one hundred years before Bonnie Prince Charlie's defeat at Culloden, the local Minister being censured for play 'Gouf' in 1640 on the Sabbath.

Dunbar Golf Club was formed in 1856 engaging the services of Old Tom Moriss to layout a course of some 15 holes, Three additional holes being added in 1880, few changes have taken place since. The course occupies a thin strip of land running along a rocky, exposed beach, most of the holes having a classic links feel, although there is an inland element to the first three holes, played on the south side of the Old Wall, which runs the entire length of the course. Used for many important championships, including the Open Championship final quialifying rounds, and all the major Scottish Amateur events both Senior and Junior.

The quality of the challenge is reflected when you stand on the first Tee looking down the opening fairway, the first of two 'Back to Back' par fives, an unusual start by modern design standards.

Accuracy pays the best dividend on this course, not length, a case in point being the seventh hole, a par four of under 400 yards doglegging to the right with the ever present wall running its entire length. Just as the Old Course at St Andrews has a loop to change direction from front nine to back nine, so does Dunbar, the course looping to the left towards the sea, before going back on itself at the 13th and striking for home.

At the 14th there is an interesting diversion in way of a listed building known as 'The Vaults' before you assult the last four holes. The 18th brings you back on the inland side of the Old Wall and to the front of a welcoming Clubhouse.
Overall Dunbar presents a strong challange tempered with spendid views out to sea towards the Bass Rock. A quick calculation reveals that 'Out-of-Bounds' threatens on no fewer than ten holes, while the beach comes into play on nine of the holes.

Enjoy your stay at Dunbar, a links course presented in immaculate condition all year round.