Musselburgh Links, The Old Golf Course

The course and its history

Documentary evidence shows golf was played at Musselburgh on 2 March 1672, recorded in the account book of Sir John Foulis of Ravelston, and tradition holds that Mary, Queen of Scots played here in 1567. The nine holes hosted the Open Championship six times between 1874 and 1889. The holes carry historic names: the 1st, The Short Hole, was added in 1832, and the 2nd, The Graves, is said to cover a burial ground from the Battle of Pinkie in 1547. Guinness World Records has recognised the Old Course as the oldest surviving golf course.

Booking and visitor practicalities

The course is run by Enjoy Leisure for East Lothian and is open to the public all year, except 25 December, 1 January and race days at Musselburgh Racecourse. Tee times can be booked online and it is open until dusk. For a round played as it was in the course's heyday, hire traditionally crafted hickory clubs, which must be pre-booked with the starter. Modern clubs and trolleys can also be hired; contact the course before booking if you need equipment.

Getting there

The course sits inside the racecourse complex on Balcarres Road, at the east end of Musselburgh, around 10 km from central Edinburgh. Check the racecourse fixture list before you go, as the course closes on race days.

Highlights

• Hosted the Open Championship six times between 1874 and 1889
• Recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest surviving golf course
• Golf recorded here on 2 March 1672
• Hickory club hire available

Good to know

• Closed on 25 December, 1 January and Musselburgh race days
• Hickory club hire must be pre-booked by phoning the starter
• Open to the public all year with online tee-time booking

Frequently asked questions