Why it matters
The West Links at North Berwick has been played continuously since 1832, making it one of the oldest courses in the world still on its original site. The 15th hole — "Redan" — is the most-copied par-3 in golf architecture, with imitations from Shinnecock to Sand Valley. The town of North Berwick is a Victorian seaside resort 30 minutes east of Edinburgh by train; the course runs along the firth with the Bass Rock on the horizon.
How to play it
Walking only and very walkable. Book directly with the club six months out for summer. Train from Edinburgh Waverley (30 minutes) means no car required. Pair with Gullane No. 1 next door or Muirfield (if you can land a tee time) for an East Lothian three-course day.