Established in 1895 and sitting right under Arthur's Seat, Duddingston Golf Club is a cracking parkland option if you're basing yourself in Edinburgh. It's only a short drive from the city centre, but once you're on the first tee it feels a world away from the bustle.
The headline hazard is the Braid Burn, which winds through the property and can bring big numbers into play if you get greedy with your line. Add in mature, tree-lined fairways and a few elevation changes and you've got a proper thinking golfer's course. You don't need to be a bomber here, but you do need to pick sensible targets and commit to them.
For a golf break, the appeal is obvious. You can enjoy everything Edinburgh does brilliantly after your round, from Old Town pubs and restaurants to the Castle and the Royal Mile, then wake up and be on the tee quickly the next day. It also works nicely as a change of pace if your itinerary is heavy on East Lothian links and you fancy something a bit different without sacrificing quality.
The club atmosphere is friendly and straightforward, which is exactly what you want when you're travelling with a group. If you like your parkland golf with real strategy, a scenic backdrop and a fair test, Duddingston should be on your shortlist.
Who is this for? Golfers staying in Edinburgh who want a quality round nearby and an easy day-to-night plan in the city.
Who is it best for? Societies and mid-to-low handicappers who enjoy strategic parkland golf, plus anyone building a Scotland trip who wants a smart inland contrast to East Lothian links.
