Okay, so yesterday I actually got around to playing a round at North Berwick Golf Club, something I’ve been meaning to do for ages. Let me tell you how it all went down.
First things first, booking the tee time. That’s always a bit of a mission, right? I hopped online, checked their website, and thankfully managed to snag a slot for the West Links course. It wasn’t easy – those tee times vanish fast! Booked it about a month in advance just to be safe.
Got up super early yesterday, grabbed a quick coffee and a bite, then drove over to North Berwick. The drive itself is pretty scenic, so that was a nice start. Arrived at the clubhouse, checked in, and just soaked in the atmosphere for a bit. You know, the smell of the sea air and freshly cut grass – classic!
Then, straight to the practice green. Needed to get a feel for the speed of the greens, which, by the way, were lightning fast. Spent about 20 minutes just working on my putting stroke. Felt reasonably confident, so headed to the first tee.
Now, the West Links course is something else. It’s a proper links course, right on the coast. The wind was howling, which made things interesting, to say the least. First few holes were a bit of a struggle, trying to keep the ball low under the wind. A few wayward shots, but nothing disastrous.
Around the 4th or 5th hole, I started to get into a rhythm. Figured out how to play the wind a bit better, and my iron shots were finding the greens more consistently. There are some crazy blind shots on that course, which is both fun and terrifying! Trusting the yardage book is key.
The greens themselves were in fantastic condition. Fast, true, and challenging. Three-putted a couple of times, but also managed to sink a few long ones, which always feels good. The bunkers are strategically placed, and I found myself in a couple. Getting out of those was a bit of a struggle, but hey, that’s links golf for you!
The back nine was even more challenging, with the wind picking up even more. Made a few silly mistakes, but also had some really good moments. The views are absolutely stunning though; you can see the Firth of Forth and the Bass Rock. Almost makes you forget about your bad shots… almost.
Finished the round with a score that I won’t disclose (let’s just say it could have been better!), but overall, I had an amazing time. The course is a real test of golf, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The challenge is a great experience.
After the round, I grabbed a pint at the clubhouse and just relaxed, chatting with some of the other golfers. Everyone was super friendly, and it was a great way to end the day.
So, overall, playing North Berwick was an unforgettable experience. If you’re a golfer and you ever get the chance, you absolutely have to play there. Just be prepared for the wind, the bunkers, and some seriously challenging shots. Worth every penny!
- Book tee times well in advance.
- Practice your putting before you play.
- Bring a good windbreaker.
- Trust your yardage book.
- Enjoy the views!
Would I go back? Absolutely. Already planning my next trip!
