GIFFORD – EAST LOTHIAN’S GOLFING HIDDEN GEM
In the case of Gifford – East Lothian’s Golfing Hidden Gem, good things come in small packages. No idiom is more suitable for this fantastic 9-hole parkland course, tucked away, yet extremely accessible, at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills.
With Scotland’s Golf Coast offering the greatest concentration of Championship links golf courses in the world, you’d think that the ‘little-known’ Gifford, would be cowering in the shadow of its bigger brothers. To the contrary, Gifford is pushing forward and is setting the bar for 9-hole courses across Scotland.
Meandering Fairways
Originally laid out by Willie Watt of Royal Epsom, in 1904, Gifford does not profess to be the oldest, the longest, nor the quirkiest. It does, however, confidently host a stunning setting, serene surroundings, and the ability to get away from it all. As the wildlife meanders in the mature woodland, the birds soar on the thermals above, and a member jauntily confirms a good morning, it’s a happy place.
5* Reviews
Regarding members, Gifford is going from strength to strength. With over 100 new members signing up in 2025 alone, a waitlist is likely. A 600% increase in visitor rounds in 2024, alongside 100% 5* reviews from those visitors, is no mean feat. Success has not been achieved from standing still, and it’s that mentality that has seen Gifford shortlisted for the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards’ Best 9-Hole Course for the second year running.
Superb Conditioning
The reviews highlight the true star of the show – the course. Consistently, the member and visitor alike talk about the presentation, the quality of the greens, the immaculate fairways, and the pristine tee boxes. Considering the moderate green fee, this praise is a testament to the green keeping team’s hard work and expertise.
Nine holes it may be, but a fair challenge can be expected. Good shots will be rewarded and errant ones punished, like all the best golf courses. The natural, rolling and undulating fairways provide that element of unpredictability. Visually stunning, especially in the evening light, the definition of the holes is striking. Approaches to greens need precision, whilst the greens are subtle, and well-crafted. A second nine introduces different tee boxes, creating a unique 18 holes.
9 Holes in the Afternoon
Meanwhile, in the charismatic clubhouse, the committee is plotting the next new development. A strong marketing campaign, and the introduction of new social media channels and a new website, show an understanding of how a hidden course, can truly be found. There is no better marketing than word of mouth though, and perfecting the experience is half the battle, and perfect it is.
Scotland has many a bucket-list course, yet Scottish golf goes well beyond those. Such is Scotland’s Golf Coast’s versatility and variety, you can be on a Top 100 course in the morning, and within 30 minutes, chatting to a local over a cup of tea and a bacon roll, before heading out for nine at Gifford.
