Home
Scottish Links Golf
The Basics
AFSD - how to determine the real length of a golf course
Helpful Websites
Platinum Page
Upscale golfing products & services
Aberdeen &
Grampian Highlands
Royal Aberdeen, Cruden Bay...
Ayrshire
Royal Troon, Turnberry, Prestwick...
North Berwick Golf Coast
Castle Park
Craigielaw
Dunbar
Gifford
Glen
Gullane
Haddington
Kilspindie
Longniddry
Luffness New
Muirfield
Musselburgh
Musselburgh Links
North Berwick
Royal Musselburgh
Whitekirk
Winterfield
Northern Highlands
Royal Dornoch, Brora, Nairn...
St. Andrews area
Other golf courses
Machrihanish, Pitlochry...
Links Lite
Great links golf for the not-so-great golfer
 |
| Click on icon |
Scottish Seabird Centre
5 Star
all the way |
 |
| Not only golf attracts visitors to the area.
The Scottish Seabird Centre is exceptional.
Details below, under What To Do All Day. |
|
North Berwick Golf Coast
(c) 2008, Richard & Mary-Alice Jafolla
More great links golf courses than
anywhere
in the world
A hearty welcome to the North Berwick Golf Coast experience, the area just east of Edinburgh,
teeming with delectable delights--in our
opinion, more fine golf courses per square
mile than anywhere in the world! And we're
talking truly fine courses, the legendary Muirfield being
but one of a top-choice list. The North Berwick Golf Coast is a golfer's paradise. And for the non-golfer,
a land of rich rewards--a place you'll hold
in your dreams and long to return to again
and again..
 |
| North Berwick seafront overlooking the Firth
of Forth |
Our base on the North Berwick Golf
Coast
is North Berwick, about 20 some miles east of the beautiful
city of Edinburgh. North Berwick is a lively
yet nostalgic town you can easily and quickly
get to know. Once a vibrant ferry port as
well as a fishing and grain port and popular
summer resort, it is now (to us) the perfect
place for golf and a good representation
of the authentic Scotland. North Berwick
is an art centre, with many fine galleries,
and it is also a great centre for bird-watching.
I'm smiling as I write this because I'm about
to introduce you to several of my favorite
things. But first things first...as always,
you'll want to go to the Tourist Information
Centre in the town centre, where you will
enjoy speaking with Gordon Leslie, former
manager of Edinburgh Castle. Gordon is very
knowledgeable and very helpful. While there,
you can pick up a copy of "The Essential Guide, Edinburgh &
Lothians" (no charge for this VERY useful booklet)
and also be sure to buy your Ordnance Survey
maps of the area. You will find a good assortment
of books on Scotland as well.
 |
This
gorgeous
display is
right in
the centre
of town |
 |
North Berwick is a town of flowers...homeowners'
gardens as well as public gardens have won
numerous awards. The town itself, with its
spectacular "North Berwick in Bloom" displays, has been voted best garden town
in Great Britain, and it's easy to see why.
Places to Stay on the North Berwick Golf
Coast
Some very fine choices here, all offering a full Scottish breakfast, which
is included in the price of the room and
will get your day off to a hearty start. You cannot go wrong with any of these B&Bs,
all of which are fairly-priced.
Glebe House -- We have never stayed at a more beautiful
B&B. Gwen and Jake Scott have opened
their magnificent home to guests and you
will love everything about it, including
their sweet little dogs, Annie and Truffles.
Even the location is perfect--secluded in
its own large, peaceful grounds and yet just
a 2 minute walk into the heart of North Berwick,
which you'll soon discover is a delightful
town. If you want to enjoy elegance and warm
hospitality and at reasonable rates for such
lovely up-scale accommodations, the Glebe
House is for you. Rated 4 stars and is extremely
popular, so book very early.
The Glebe House, Law Road, North Berwick, East Lothian EH39
4BL, Scotland....tel/(0)1620 892608 (remember,
you don't dial the first "0" if
you're calling from outside the UK.)
E-mail: J.A.Scott@tesco.net
Web: www.glebehouse-nb.co.uk
Glentruim -- A fine B&B in a fine location on Dirleton
Avenue, the main street running through town.
Just a few minutes' walk to the town centre
and West Links. Owners Cathy and Clive Barber
will warmly welcome you into this renovated
Victorian home with spacious, comfortable
rooms (including a family bedroom), all with
ensuite or private bathroom. The Glentruim
also offers a most pleasant self-catering
holiday cottage ( sleeps 4-6) at the back
of the property for minimum of one-week stays.
The 4 star Glentruim has an attractive website
-- www.glentruim.co.uk
E-mail: enquiries@glentruim.co.uk
tel/ (0)1620 890064
Glentruim, 53 Dirleton Avenue, North Berwick,
East Lothian EH39 4BL, Scotland
No.12 Quality Street -- More than a B&B but without the formality
of a hotel, No.12 is all about relaxation and informality with
excellent service. Very attractive, all new
and right in the heart of town is this comfortable
hotel. The 11 beautifully-decorated rooms
are large with good bathrooms, telephones,
and internet access. Golfers are especially
catered to, with a special area for storage
of golf clubs. And the private car park in
the rear is a real bonus. Well done restaurant
and cafe bar on the premises. Take a look
at their appealing website.
www.no12qualitystreet.co.uk
E-mail: bookings@no12qualitystreet.co.uk
12 Quality Street
North Berwick, EH39 4HP, Scotland
Tel/ (0)1620 892529
Fidra House -- Awarded the coveted 5 star rating, John and
Marian Ramsay have created a gem within
the
picturesque, historical hamlet of Athelstaneford.
(Birthplace of Scotland's national
flag--the
Saltire. See below.) Athelstaneford
lies
in lovely rolling countryside just
a few
minutes drive from North Berwick and
all
the great golf courses. The 3 sumptuous,
large B&B rooms are in a custom-built
cottage in the midst of the garden,
so guests
have great privacy, having to enter
enter
the main house only for breakfast.
A beautiful
and blissful place to stay. Fidra House
is
"ultra" in every aspect,
and affords
the level of luxury you would normally
find
in only the best hotels. Prior to creating
this delightful B&B, the Ramsays
owned
a top-of-the-line B&B in North
Berwick
that also earned a 5 star rating. So
you
can see they know how to do "B&B"
well. Perfect for golfers, with even
a special
closet to store your clubs.
Tel/ (0)1620 880777
E-mail: JohnVRamsay@compuserve.com
Web: www.scotlandsbestbandbs.co.uk/fidra.htm
Open Arms Hotel -- In Dirleton, just 2 miles from North
Berwick in a "world apart."
A traditional
country inn set in the midst of one
of the
most attractive villages in Scotland,
and
directly across the street from our
favorite
castle. (See below.) It's a bit more
expensive
than most places we recommend, but
is delightful.
They also serve fine food. (See below.)
Te/ (0)1620 850241 Web: www.openarmshotel.com
E-mail: openarms@clara.co.uk
Jadini Garden B&B -- This 3 star lodging in Gullane has a secluded
walled garden, very comfortable beds,
excellent
location, and private parking. Mary
Chase,
the owner, will let you have use of
the kitchen
if you take all the rooms. (Nice if
you are
traveling with others.) And she also has a self-catering 3-bedroom luxury
apartment available as a weekly rental.
Jadini
is located on the charming Goose Green
in
the heart of the village.
Tel/ (0)1620 843343
E-mail : marychase@jadini.com
Web: www.jadini.com
Drem Farmhouse -- An attractive 4 star large Georgian house
with beautifully decorated bedrooms,
each
of which has a view of the garden.
And there
is a large sunroom for the guests,
overlooking
the extensive gardens. On the grounds
are
the remains of a Knights Templar Chapel,
and Edinburgh is a short 20 minute
train
ride from this conservation village
of Drem.
By car just 3 miles from Gullane and
5 minutes
from North Berwick. In addition to B&B lodging, this attractive stone farmhouse offers self-catering
(rented by the week) .
Contact Marlene Smith by phone: (0)1620 850563
or E-mail: dremfarmhouse@aol.com
Or view their website: www.dremfarmhouse.co.uk
Self-catering lodging -- houses or flats you rent by the week
Craigend Cottage - Lovely 4 star home directly alongside North
Berwick West Links Golf Course and
overlooking
the sea. A delightful place to spend
a week
or more, just a few minutes walk to
town
centre and train station. Spacious,
comfortable,
deluxe. The gracious owners, Sally
and Andrew
White, have thought of everything when
they
created this wonderful 3 bedroom accommodation
that was originally a wing of a stately
mansion.
Perfect location. Fabulous views. Great
choice.
Highest recommendations. Let their
website
tell you more. www.craigendcottage.co.uk
And for GROUPS, we strongly recommend the following gems,
rather than a large hotel. Experience
authentic
Scottish lodging and you will enrich
your
stay.
 |
North Berwick Golf Lodge -- Exclusive accommodations in a comfortable
private space for a group of
people who want
to be together. Most convenient--a
5 minute
walk to the beach and town centre--and
so
close to some of the world's
best links courses.
Want 5 star luxury with the freedom
of having
your own private house? Please
see Platinum Page and www.northberwickgolflodge.co.uk. Hosts Emma and Tom Hill have so very much
to offer you. |
West Fenton Court Luxury Holiday Cottages
Ideal for golfers and a paradise for walkers.
Luxurious cottages part of a stunning restoration of historic farm buildings,
original design on the outside with every modern luxury on
the inside. For details see Platinum Page and www.westfenton.co.uk. |
 |
Fenton Tower -

|
Rare opportunity to stay in an ancient castle restored to absolute luxury and privacy.
Perfect for a group of golfing friends.a wedding, family reunion, or any special
occasion. World-class hideaway
with its own
helicopter pad, yet just minutes
from the
centre of North Berwick. Fabulous
views.
Details on the Platinum Page and www.fentontower.com
|
 |
Green Craig ...a private and exclusive haven for the
discerning golfer.
Historic Scottish landmark, recently restored,
is the newest upscale accommodation
on the
North Berwick Golf Coast. Adjacent
to Craigielaw
Golf Club in Aberlady, Green Craig is of the absolute highest standard. For
groups only, so you have the
entire mansion.
Very good value in an exceptional
location.
Please see Platinum Page and www.greencraig.com |
Kaimend -
Magnificent Scottish mansion overlooking
the North Berwick golf course
and the ever-changing
waters of the Firth of Forth.
Kaimend is
a B & B for groups only,
so the entire
home is yours. Both the home
and the view
are stunning. See details at
Platinum Page and Kaimend.com |
 |
|
Good Place for A Pint
The Auld Hoose - 19 Forth Street, corner of Forth Street
Lane. A pleasant, old-fashioned gathering
place for the locals, where you will feel
comfortable and enjoy meeting the interesting
people who frequent this historical, traditional
pub. Women and men alike are made to feel
very welcome. A great opportunity to sample
the simple dignity of a non-touristy, genuine
Scottish pub. For a pint or a wee dram, stop
in at The Auld Hoose (The Old House).
_____________________________________________________________________________
Plan A Picnic (or Pamper Your Palate)
Gullane Delicatessen -- Purveyors of Fine Wines and Foods
Enter Gullane Deli and you are surrounded
by an astonishing array of international
foods and wines to please any palate.
The
personable owner, Mark Cervi, has established
a gourmet venue with unusual and hard-to-find
items as well as everything you need
for
a great picnic basket. And creating picnic baskets (hampers) is one
of Gullane Deli's specialties. Located in the heart of Gullane--a small
town only a few minutes from North Berwick--Gullane
Deli is something you'd expect to find in
NY or Paris or Rome. The foods and wines
are tops, the service is genuinely warm and
helpful, the prices are very competitive.
Allow time to browse. You'll appreciate knowing
about the Gullane Deli.
 |
Gullane Deli
40 C Main St.
Gullane
Across the street from
the 1st tee at Gullane #1.
Tel/ (0)1620 842 134
www.gullanedeli.co.uk |
 |
______________________________________________________________________________
Places to Eat
In North Berwick --
All along the High Street you will find an
amazing selection of tea and coffee shops,
all serving light meals. Too many to list
here but all of them good. Take your pick.
For larger meals and more complete restaurants,
you can try--
Nether Abbey Hotel Brasserie - 20 Dirleton Avenue, a short walk from
town centre. Their all-new restaurant inside
the hotel is tastefully designed, but you
can also eat outside when the weather is
nice. Open for lunch and dinner every day.
Best to book ahead. Tel/ 01620 892802.
The Grange - 35 High Street, featuring Scottish/French
cuisine.
Osteria - very good Italian cuisine, on the main
street (High St) next door to Woolworth's.
Book ahead.
Poonthais Thai Cuisine - 7 Westgate (west end of the high st.)
Very popular and with nice garden dining
in rear.
Lucky House - 125 High Street, for Cantonese cooking
The Scottish Seabird Centre - at the harbour, an unusual but enjoyable
eating place. Bright and cheerful surroundings,
with luscious views out over the Firth of
Forth. They have good jacket potatoes and
a very nice menu, with wine and beer available.
You should definitely visit the renowned
Seabird Centre anyway, and while you're there
you might as well have a nice dining experience.
You don't have to pay to enter the building
and go into the bistro, by the way. Nor will
you be able to resist browsing in their excellent
gift shop on the way to and from the dining
room.
The High Street (main street in town) is dotted with pleasant
little cafes, tea shops and coffee houses,
all serving light food and casual meals.
When you are strolling through the town centre,
refreshment and drink are never more than
a minute away. Too many to mention here,
you'll very quickly find your own favourite.
Out of town but only 5 minutes away in nearby Gullane
-- We especially like these restaurants in Gullane,
which is just a few miles west of North Berwick.
The town is very small, so you will easily
locate any of these.
Golf Inn on Main Street in Gullane. Long a favorite
of ours. Food is very good, prices are moderate,
and the ambience comfortable and attractive.
All adds up to a most pleasant dining experience. Best to call
ahead to book a table. Tel/ 01620 843259.
The Old Clubhouse, on East Links Road across from the children's
golf course in Gullane. Historic place serving
pub food. Go early, as it gets crowded.
La Potiniere, on Main Street, is a very upscale gourmet
dining experience. Very small, intimate dining
room where you have your table for the entire
evening. Expensive, but definitely worth
it if you want a relaxing, epicurean treat.
Booking way ahead at this excellent restaurant
is a must.Tel/ 1620 843214.
Open Arms Hotel, in Dirleton, the village between North
Berwick and Gullane. Fine food in a charming
setting across from the castle. Deveau's
Brasserie offers informal dining, and the
Library is an award-winning restaurant. We
recommend them both.
Out of town eateries, yet still only 10-14
minutes from North Berwick --
Old Aberlady Inn, on the main street (the A198) running through
the quaint town of Aberlady, less than 10
minutes from North Berwick just west of Gullane.
This landmark inn is worth the drive if just
for its looks alone. But you'll soon discover
there's more to enjoy than how it looks.
The former owners have returned and offer
fine food and drink in a delightful ambience.
Eat outside in the garden in nice weather.
Or if you like the garden setting but not
the direct sun, choose in the glassed-in
dining room overlooking the garden. A charming
old inn, and the prices are right, too. One
visit to their excellent website will convince
you that The Old Aberlady Inn should be high on your list of where to
eat. www.theoldaberladyinn.co.uk
Craigielaw Golf Course Clubhouse, open to the public every day,and for dinner
on Saturdays, Incredible views, moderate
prices. Very appealing contemporary decor
and, as I say, the view is unbeatable. (See my write-up on the Craigielaw page.)
Whitekirk Golf Course Clubhouse, on the road to Dunbar. Attractive dining
rooms. Well-priced food.
In Dunbar, about 20 minutes from North Berwick,
heading east -
The Rocks - an upscale restaurant and bar, with excellent
chef and pastry chef. Food is delicious.
Very popular and people come quite some distances
to eat here, so the restaurant has a courtesy
bus service to pick you up and bring you
home if you wish. Advance booking is essential.
Tel/ 01368 862287. I'm recommending it because
it is excellent, But there is one caveat here--the noise level is very high, so if
you are looking for conversation or a quiet
dining experience, this might not be the
place. The Rocks is in Dunbar, on Marine Road at the seafront.
Easy to find.
In Prestopans, about 20 minutes from North
Berwick, heading west --
 |
The Prestoungrange Gothenburg is dedicated to good food, art and music
festivals, and the revival of the traditions
of real ales, salt and soap-making which
at one time put the town of Prestonpans on
the map. Several venues here, with the James
Park Bistro being open all day every day.
Visit their website to learn more about this
historical building and what they feature.
www.prestoungrange.org An unusual place with an impressive mission--the
regeneration of their community through the
arts. Archie and Sheila Baird (see Heritage of Golf Museum just below) recommended the Prestoungrange Gothenburg to us, and now we are recommending it to
you. From North Berwick take the A198 west
and then the B1438 to Prestonpans. The building
is at 227 High Street. Phone 01875 819922
to book a table.
_______________________________________________________________
What To Do All Day
The North Berwick Golf Coast is loaded with delights. Since you'll probably
be staying in the town of North Berwick,
we'll look there first. You could spend many
days investigating just the High Street,
where you'll enjoy things like the following
--
 |
North Berwick High Street |
 |
Cone 9 Ceramics - An exciting new gallery presenting a wealth
of original work by local, national and international
potters, artisits and craftworkers--a visual
feast for the discerning shopper who wants
something authentically one-of-a kind. The
inviiting little gallery features beautifully
crafted ceramics, irresistible wall-hangings,
fabulous jewelry, chic cloth handbags hand-made
by a local designer (and at surprisingly
accessible prices), and much more. Cone 9 Ceramics--daring to be different--is owned by Ruth
Colston, originally from Orkney and passionate
about being "Progressive--Selective--Unique."
At 60 High Street. Allow yourself plenty of browsing time.
Stop 'N Shop at #93. An amazing shop that has everything,
from hot water bottles to fishing rods to
kites to...well, you name it. If you don't
see what you want, ask, because they probably
have it. Run by a very helpful couple, Farida
and Abdul, who will order an item for you
if they don't stock it. But we have never
been disappointed here. Our thought is that
if they don't have it, we don't need it!
Woolworth's --yes, the old familiar is still in Scotland.
The Fisherman's Kitchen - fresh fish market, etc. But it's more
than a fine fish market. Check out their
wines, for instance. Many unique items in
this attractive shop.
Lockett Bros -- Wine & Whisky Specialist
Scottish Wine Merchant of the Year 2005
Independent wine merchant with wide selections
and good prices. In-store tastings, gift
boxes & wrapping, free local delivery,
and fun browsing. Friendly, knowledgable,
and helpful. If you want to take home some fine single
malt whisky, this is the place to shop.
A most welcome addition to North Berwick
at 133 High Street, you can visit them on-line to see all they offer. Especially
note the page displaying the wines exclusive
to Lockett Bros.. www.lockettbros.co.uk |
 |
Presence - specialists in Scottish gifts
Thistles - gifts and wonderful kitchenware.
Boots - the ubiquitous British pharmacy chain
Ferguson's Pharmacy - a must-browse place. Upscale cosmetics
and unusual items
Howdah Coffee & Tea Emporium - shop carrying all that its name implies.
Amazing selection of coffees and teas from
around the world. You'll need time to browse.
Owner really knows his teas and coffees!
Several charity shops (Oxfam, Heart, Red Cross, Cancer, etc.)
where I buy used books at great prices. And
keep an eye out for antiques in these shops. I've spotted many bargains.
Art galleries. North Berwick is renowned as an art centre.
www.north-berwick.co.uk
Once you stroll along the high street
and
side streets, you will discover your
own
favourite places. You really have to
take
your time and investigate every nook
and
cranny. We've been in North Berwick
a total
of many months over the last seven
years,
and still discover new delights. That's
why
I recommend you visit this website.
You'll
find all kinds of helpful and fascinating information
about the town and the area. A website you
will use again and again, as I do, as a reference
source.
North Berwick Highland Games -- The highpoint of the year for this charming
town. North Berwick hosts the 5th largest highland
games in all of Scotland, and is definitely
an event you will long remember. Pipe (bagpipe)
bands from all over the world, all dressed
in their tartans. Games, including tossing
the caber (akin to a telephone pole), Scottish
dancing competitions for all ages, foot races,
solo bagpipe competitions, tossing the North
Berwick stone (a huge rock) and so much more.
Walking stick carvers, selling their beautiful
sticks--something anyone who goes walking
in the countryside should have. (Richard
and I each bought one here, and we use them
a lot.) Everything Scottish. Rides, food
and drink. Something for everyone. Then in
the evening, the grande finale--the pipe
bands march down the hill and through the
town. What a great day--an opportunity to
see an authentic "highland games."
Usually held the first or second Saturday
in August. See the Tourist Info Centre for
more details, or call John Starr at (0)1620
890 333. Visit their colourful website to get a flavour
of this memorable yearly event. www.northberwickhighlandgames.co.uk
Other North Berwick attractions --
Scottish Seabird Centre -- Awarded the 5 Star rating, and with good
reason! Not a fou-fou place for tourists
or a hyped-up amusement arcade for kids,
this is a most wonderful facility for experiencing
and learning about puffins and gannets and
other birds of the area. The Centre is at
the North Berwick harbour and is a serious
scientific centre opened in May 2000 by Prince
Charles, an avid environmentalist himself.
An auditorium features excellent lecturers
all summer long, and the Scottish Seabird
Centre has already earned a very high reputation
internationally as a renowned centre for
the study of seabirds. A viewing deck, with
telescopes and interactive cameras, allows
you to view the nesting of the birds on the
islands just off shore without disturbing
them. See puffins and gannets up close. Fine
exhibits, a good cafe and bistro (I already
mentioned this above), and a gift shop you'll
appreciate. The whole thing is very well
done. A first-rate experience--one I highly
recommend. You can check it out on www.seabird.org.
Walk the beach
Visit the lifeboat (RNLI) station
Climb The Law -- a huge rock which can be seen from many
miles distance, even from across the Firth
of Forth in the Kingdom of Fife. A major
landmark, it is 612 fee high with a not-too-difficult
path to the top. If you make it up there,
you'll discover the ruins of an old building
up top. I've climbed the Law, and recommend
it if you like a good walk. Mostly you climb
from the back (south) side, which is not
nearly as steep as the north side. Follow
signs for the carpark, and set out from there.
Boat trips to Fidra -- to see the puffins
Boat trips to Bass Rock -- to see the gannets.
Internet Service -- Lothian Computer Systems & Internet
Cafe, 6 Church Road in the centre of North
Berwick. Owned and operated by a very knowledgable
and helpful couple, John and Lucia Starr,
(and assisted by their daughter, Luisa).
Somerfields Supermarket -- We favour the shops in the town centres,
where you can find almost anything
you need.
But just in case you want a fairly
good-sized
supermarket, there's one on the road
leading
out of town towards Dunbar. Lots of
organic
items, which is true of all the major
chains.)
Tesco Supermarket -- And if you continue just a minute further
around the bend you'll find the large market,
part of the Tesco chain, complete with petrol
station.
 |
Loo of The Year
I know, I know...but it is SO
unique. Really,
you cannot come to North Berwick
without
visiting the "Loo of The
Year"
award-winning public toilet in
the town centre.
Fresh flowers daily, clean as
a whistle,
walls festooned with national
awards from
many years. How could I not include
it on
my must-see list? |
And now for some exceptional places just
a wee bit further afield --
Let's begin with an essential for the lover
of golf history and tradition--
 |
| Archie Baird |
Cleek, niblick, mashie, spoon, baffy? No,
they're not types of fast food, they are
part of the history of golf. One visit to
Archie Baird's The Heritage of Golf Museum will clear it all up.
Tucked next to the Gullane Golf Club
pro
shop in the centre of Gullane this
is one
of golfdom's great treasures. Small
in size
but large in importance, this unrivalled
collection is the result of one man's
passion
for the tradition and history of golf.
Rare
early golf clubs, balls and all sorts
of
historical golf mechanisms and memorabilia
fill the room--calling out to be noticed.
And noticed they will be, for the founder
and curator of the museum is here to
explain
them all. For example, Archie will
show you
why the very best early golf ballmakers
could
only "manufacture" two per
day
and how the gutta percha ball not only
revolutionized
the golf ball but how it forced changes
in
golf clubs.
Archie Baird is a wellspring of information
and colourful stories about the history of
golf. The more interested you are in golf
history, the more fascinating and the more
generous with his time he becomes. Throughout his life, Archie has collected
golfing artefacts, many of them one-of-a-kind.
Former RAF pilot in WWII, veterinary surgeon,
and Captain of Gullane Golf Club, Archie
is a member of the Honourable Company of
Edinburgh Golfers. His wife, Dr. Sheila Park
Baird, is the great-granddaughter of Willie
Park, Sr., first winner of the Open Campionship.
The Heritage of Golf Museum is for the seriously interested. At present,
the only way to visit the collection is by
phoning Archie, who is always happy to give
a complementary "tour" to those
genuinely seeking to explore the rich treasures
of golf history. Archie Baird is an expert--engaging
and articulate--with a twinkle in his eye
as he enthusiastically explains his collection.
You can reach him by phoning 01875 870 277.
A visit to his museum is a privilege you
are bound to appreciate and enjoy.
Preston Mill on the river Tyne in East Linton. After
you visit the mill, which is still turning
after over 400 years, take the footpath behind
it for about 100 yards to the massive 16th
Century stone Phantassie Doocot (dovecote).
Hailes Castle, just outside of East Linton, is a special
place and will delight any history enthusiast.
These are the ruins of the castle where Mary
Queen of Scots and her eventual third husband,
the Earl of Bothwell, stayed when fleeing
after the murder of her second husband (Lord
Darnley) in 1567. Bothwell was allegedly
a key figure in the murder of Darnley, and
some speculate that he abducted Mary and
brought her to this castle. After reading
several biographies of Mary Stewart, I tend
to think she went willingly. At any rate,
they married a few days later, although they
lived together for only a brief period. (Reading
about the history of an area really enhances
your visit, and Mary Queen of Scots is an
especially fascinating subject.) I do recommend
this idyllic spot along the banks of a small
river. And the drive into it on the tiny
narrow road (usually empty) is especially
lovely. Locate it on your Ordnance Survey.
Tantallon Castle -- built in 1375, it was virtually impregnable
for many years. You'll realize why when you
see the spectacular location! Just east of
North Berwick. A must-see.
Museum of Flight -- at East Fortune Airfield near Haddington.
Historic aircraft of WWII in huge hangars.
If you are at all interested in aviation,
place this on your list of things to do.
One of the Concorde SSTs is the latest aircraft to joint the exhibit.
A cafe' on the premises as well. You'll find
the museum well signposted throughout the
area and it's also on your Ordnance Survey.
Dirleton -- A picturebook village -- Considered by many to be the most attractive
village in Scotland, and I have to agree.
What a gem! Built around a lovely village
green, this is such an unspoiled little piece
of heaven that you will want to spend time
ambling about and taking in the beauty. Walk
down the little lanes, admire the gardens,
investigate the church and visit the fine
Dirleton Gallery, etc., and of course the
superb castle right in the heart of the village.
(See below.) I urge you to make Dirleton
part of your itinerary.
 |
Dirleton Gallery -- Every visit to this jewel of a village
should include this highly esteemed gallery
with customers world-wide. Paintings, prints, porcelain, ceramics,
designer knitwear...all top quality. Tucked
away only a few steps from the village green,
the gallery also offers a wonderful tea/coffee
room with the most mouth-watering cakes you
can imagine! A delight to the eye as well
as the palate. Whenever I sit sipping tea
in this serene setting, I find myself forgetting
the problems of the world and believing that
this is how life really is. Please view their
website to learn more. www.dirleton/gallery.co.uk
 |
Dirleton Castle --
Our favorite castle of all-time. A gem--the
gardens are unbelievable, and you can walk
all through the castle for a sense of what
life was like then. One of my favorite places, we visit it every time we come to the North
Berwick Golf Coast. Just off the main road
(A198) a couple of miles west of North Berwick,
in the centre of the picture-postcard perfect
little village of Dirleton. (More weddings
are held in Dirleton Castle than any other
castle in Scotland...and there are many,
many castles in Scotland!) |
And coming again to Dirleton in 2008...
 |
Dirleton Open Garden Weekend -- Certain gardens (private home gardens)
are open at various times each summer throughout
Great Britain. If you see the yellow signs
in a town advising of this event, take time
to go to it. To walk through these gardens
is a magical experience, like being in a
fairytale world filled with only beauty and
tranquillity.
Dirleton's gardens are open to the public
every other year on a mid-June weekend, the
next year now being 2010. Here are some photos
I took of the 2006 Dirleton gardens. (You
can see how enthusiastic I am about the stunning
gardens people create.)
|
 |
.... |
Athelstaneford -- another very special, favorite place of mine. If you have any interest at all...ANY...in
the history of Scotland, visit this enchanting
place. Go to this tiny village--Athelstaneford--and
visit the Saltire Flag Heritage Centre, near the site of a very significant battle
in 832 A.D. The Picts and the Scots (40 of
them) were defending their land against the
Northumbrians (800 of them!) led by a chieftain
name Athelstan. It was here that the present
flag of Scotland, the oldest flag in Europe
and the UK, was seen in the sky before the
battle. Thus was born the Saltire, the flag
which you see flying today. The full story
is told in the Flag Heritage Centre. Please
be sure to go into the tiny Centre (a former
dovecote) at the rear of the church because
you will be very moved by its magical presentation.
This gets my highest rating. So simple but
so creatively done. Only takes 4 minutes
and...it's free, although they do have a
little box for donations which are always
welcome. Open daily. You and whoever is with
you will probably be the only ones there.
You enter the little dovecot, close the door,
and the presentation begins automatically.
By now you might have guessed how much I
love this magical wee place. Everyone I've
taken here has felt the same way. A little
treasure usually overlooked by tourists,
be sure to take the time to visit it. An
easy short drive from North Berwick, you'll
find it on your Ordnance Survey. The beautiful B&B "Fidra House" is directly across the street, by the way.
After you've visited Athelstaneford, you
can take a quick hop down the road (west)
to the Hopetoun Monument. You can't miss it up there on the hill
to your left. Go up if you want to treat
yourself to spectacular views.
Glenkinchie Distillery Visitor Center - on the way to Edinburgh, in Pencaitland,
Tranent. You can visit a working distillery
at Glenkinchie, home of "Edinburgh Malt."
Telephone: 01875 342004. Pick up a leaflet
in the North Berwick Tourist Information
Centre.
Dunbar -- a little town dating back to pre-Roman
times. Take your time and see all the details.
Dunbar centre is small, so there's no fear
of getting lost of running out of steam.
Gives a feeling of how time has passed a
town by. Read the details under our Dunbar
Golf Club review.
Yellowcraig Nature Trail -- on the shoreline in Dirleton.
EDINBURGH -- pronounced "Edin-burra" .... www.edinburgh.org
You cannot come to the North Berwick Golf
Coast without visiting this great city. It's
easy to see why it's the favourite of so
many people, including us. A simple way to
get there is by train from North Berwick.
A short 35 minute ride takes you smack into
the centre of the main shopping district,
Princes Street. Here are some of our favorite
places in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle -- see the Crown jewels of Scotland and
the Stone of Destiny, used for the coronation of the Scottish kings. The
castle, which dominates the city from its
high hill (an extinct volcano), is something
you will definitely want to experience. The
view from the castle grounds, so high above
the city, is fabulous. Edinburgh Castle website has a new entry
about the new exhibition in the dungeons,
and refers to the fact that in 1781 American
prisoners were held here during the War of
Independence (American Revolution). The website
shows a photo of one of the earliest representations
of the Stars and Stripes, which was carved
on a door of the dungeons. www.historic-scotland.gov.uk Once the site opens, click on "Properties"
and then "Edinburgh Castle" and
finally "visitors to be taken back to
1781." Edinburgh Castle should be at
the top of your "must see" list
and deserves a full day.
Royal Yacht Britannia -- It's called a yacht but by anyone's standards
it's an ocean liner. I loved every moment
of our visit. But then I admit I'm an inveterate
ship "freak." Best to pre-book
during August. Call (0)131555 556. There's
an excellent self-guided tour, filled with
history and fascinating tidbits of the royal
family, etc.. Another of my favourites in this area.
Palace of Holyrood House -- official residence in Scotland of Her
Majesty the Queen, and also was the home
of Mary Queen of Scots, whose story is interwoven
throughout this part of Scotland. The baroque
palace sits at the end of the Royal Mile
and is closely associated with Scotland's
story past. But it is probably best known
as the former residence of Mary Queen of
Scots and as the scene of the brutal murder
of her secretary Rizzio by her jealous second
husband Lord Darnley. (Her first was the
king of France.) The bloodstain can still
be seen.
Princes Street -- the main shopping street and where you
arrive from the train. Pop into Jenners, the world's oldest independent department
store. I am not a "shopper" as
you know by now, but Jenners is so exceptional
that I always stop in when we're in Edinburgh.
They have things you cannot find anywhere
else. Very "old-fashioned" with
extremely courteous service. You will enjoy
just browsing through, even if you don't
buy anything. (Although it's hard to resist.)
And their cosmetic department alone is worth
the trip! This is one of the few shopping
experiences I will ever recommend.
National Gallery of Scotland -- at the Mound in city centre. Excellent
collection of paintings, classical to Impressionists.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery -- 1 Queen Street. Very renowned, very well
done.
Royal Botanic Gardens --Inverleith Row. For a lovely, relaxing
day. It's free, and one of the best in the
world.
Fishing, Anyone? (Or just relaxing in a change
of scene)
Before they play in The Open Championship, Tiger Woods and many other golfers spend a few relaxing
days fishing. Scotland is a fisherman's paradise,
as many have discovered. So if you have a
yen to cast a line into one of the wild streams
here, we recommend the Elibank Estate. Located south of the North Berwick Golf
Coast in an area called The Borders, Elibank
is less than an hour's drive from North Berwick
(40 minutes from Edinburgh). A hidden 220
acres of woodland walks, glorious gardens,
and a mile and a half of private fishing
on the famous River Tweed. Stay in one of
the attractive B&B rooms or spend a week
in their comfortable 4 star self-catering
cottage. You won't be disappointed.
Elibank Estate
Near Walkerburn
Peebleshire EH43 6DA, Scotland
Tel/fax: (0)1896 870218
E-mail: sarahrussell@elibank.fsbusiness.co.uk
|