Braid Hills Golf Course, Edinburgh

The course and its character

Braid Hills opened in 1893 and is one of Edinburgh's oldest public courses. Edinburgh Leisure describes it as a testing ground for James Braid and Tommy Armour. The natural contours and native gorse shape the holes, and the high ground gives views to the Pentland Hills and over Edinburgh's skyline to the Firth of Forth. From the white tees it plays 5,858 yards to a par of 71: short on paper but hilly, so expect uneven lies and wind.

Booking and visitor practicalities

Tee times are booked online through Edinburgh Leisure, and the venue is cashless, taking card and contactless only. Clubs and trolleys can be hired, but buggies are not available because of the terrain. Visitors staying a few days can buy a 3-day or 7-day Edinburgh Leisure Golf Pass, which covers six of the city's courses including Braid Hills. The pass has to be bought once you are in the UK. There is a free car park, toilets and vending machines on site.

Getting there

The course is off Braid Hills Approach near Morningside in south Edinburgh. Lothian Bus routes 11 and 15 stop within walking distance, and there are a few bike racks. Edinburgh Leisure's nine-hole Wee Braids course is next door for a shorter round.

Highlights

• Opened in 1893 as a public course
• Par 71, 5,858 yards from the white tees
• Views to the Pentland Hills and the Firth of Forth
• Included in Edinburgh Leisure's 3- and 7-day Golf Pass

Good to know

• No buggy hire because of the hilly terrain; clubs and trolleys can be hired
• Cashless venue: card and contactless only
• The Golf Pass must be bought after arriving in the UK

Frequently asked questions