8 - Gullane Golf Club (No 2)

Location: North Berwick, Scotland

Rating: 8.0

The first course I played on my first golf tour, I can safely say I did not shoot the lights out at Gullane with my handicap closer to 30 and a swing that needed major improvements but the one thing it did was ignite my passion for golf and create an insatiable addiction which I am more than happy to hold.

Gullane Golf Club is home to 3 courses, the imaginatively named, 1, 2 & 3. We were on the second course which stretches over 5,800 and offers a classic links experience both challenging and enjoyable.

The course begins by sharing its first seven holes with the more renowned No. 1 course, climbing Gullane Hill and offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. From the 8th hole, No. 2 diverges, sweeping down towards the nature reserve adjacent to Aberlady Bay, before turning back home from the 13th tee with the prevailing wind at your back .

One standout is the 11th hole, a 200 meter par 3 that plays downhill with a backdrop of stunning sea views. Club selection is critical here, as the hole is well-defended by a ring of bunkers and the wind can be deceptive .

The course features a whopping 107 bunkers strategically placed throughout, and with huge greens providing a true and fast putting surface.

A lovely course and will definitely venture back to play courses 1 & 3 someday.