Whitekirk Golf Club

An inland gem that has a distinctive links feel, Whitekirk is an absolute joy to play. Set on the top of Whitekirk hill, only two miles from the sea, this wonderful layout is home to thick growths of gorse and lush fairways as well as some of the nicest views in the area. From its elevated tees, the course boasts views of the surrounding East Lothian and Fife countryside and several local landmarks including the Bass Rock – which is famously in view from both of North Berwick’s courses – and Tantallon Castle. Although only opened in 1995, Whitekirk has a mature look and feel beyond its years and is a modern test, with plenty of water hazards and an undulating landscape that demands you land your ball in the right areas to score well. Another interesting feature of the course is the way it returns to the clubhouse after each loop, meaning you can enjoy a quick nine holes or crank it up to 27 very easily. It took only three years for Whitekirk to host its first championship event, when it held the PGA Mastercard Tour from 1998 to 2001.  The course was also home to a Sky-televised PGA EuroPro Tour event from 2002 to 2006.

Set on the top of Whitekirk hill, only two miles from the sea, this wonderful layout is home to thick growths of gorse and lush fairways as well as some of the nicest views in the area.

Top Holes by Paul Wardell, head professional:

5th 420 yards, par 4 This is the toughest hole on the course and is particularly difficult for the shorter hitter due to its length. There is a gully just short of the green and this means you need to carry the ball all the way to the green to stand any chance of leaving yourself a birdie putt.  Long is better than short with your approach. You should aim directly over the marker from the tee and remember that a driver is not always the best option.  8th 149 yards, par 3 Played from an elevated tee, this good-looking short hole is usually tackled with a prevailing wind and is therefore very hard to club. The left greenside trap is a no-go area, so avoid that. The best line into this green is the left-centre as it all feeds to the right. 10th 360 yards, par 4 From its elevated tee, this hole boasts some great views and really asks a lot of your long game. A large patch of gorse demands you carry the ball a long way while a pond on the right side means you need to be accurate, too.  As it is usually played into the wind, you can aim at the fairway bunkers to take out the trouble on both sides of the fairway.