The East Links at Dunbar Golf Club is another one of Scotland's lesser-known links gems. Lying thirty miles east of Edinburgh, the golf course is situated on the estuary of the Firth of Forth on the very land where Oliver Cromwell camped prior to the Battle of Dunbar in 1650. In 1794, a group of local gentlemen formed the Dunbar Golfing Society and played over a course called Westbarns adjacent to the town. Support for the society however, declined over the years and it was not until December 20th 1856, following a meeting in the Town Hall, that Dunbar Golf Club was formed.

Situated on a magnificent, narrow stretch of coastal terrain, Dunbar East Links presents a combination of links and inland turf and very much follows the natural contours of the coastline. Breathtaking is a word commonly used when speaking of golf courses but it really is not easy to imagine any stretch of holes with lovelier views than those offered at Dunbar. The North Sea in all it glory, is a constant companion throughout, while with the majestic coastline, the Isle of May, Bass Rock and the distant outline of Fife all vying for our attention, the golfer is often distracted from the task at hand.

Measuring just over 6,400 yards from the championship tees and boasting a par of 70, Dunbar East Links starts with two par fives of less than 500 yards. Simple enough you'd think but don't pass judgement. The 353-yard, 4th is a beautiful hole playing along by the coast, while the relatively short 6th is rated as the hardest hole on the course. The stretch from 9 through 12 is a real test, while the closing holes, with the rocky beach more than willing to accommodate even the mildest slice, can often conspire to ruin an otherwise good score. That Dunbar Golf Club has hosted many prestigious events, including the Scottish Amateur & Professional Championships and is one of the recognised qualifying venues for the British Open bears testament to the quality of the course.

Some great golf courses do not offer visiting golfers a welcome to match but that is not the case here. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, playing at Dunbar East Links is an experience that is not soon forgotten. The course may not be as well known as many of its famous counterparts but Dunbar is a worthy addition to any golfing itinerary. Nestling between ancient stone walls and the sea, Dunbar Golf Links is a vision of golfing enjoyment that is often imagined but rarely fulfilled.

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