The Glen Golf Club

The Glen Golf Club sits on the western edge of North Berwick, occupying elevated ground that offers views across the Firth of Forth. Designed by James Braid and opened in 1906, the course represents the five-time Open Champion's early work in a region already dense with golfing history. The layout makes use of natural contours and ridgelines characteristic of East Lothian's coastal terrain, though The Glen itself sits slightly inland from the immediate shoreline links that define much of the area. The course measures around 6,000 yards from the back tees and plays as a par 69, an unusual configuration that includes several short par fours and a routing that works with rather than against the property's topography. Braid's design incorporates strategic bunkering and green complexes that reward accurate approach play, while the rolling fairways and occasional blind shots reflect the era's design conventions. The elevated positions on several holes provide the coastal views, though the playing corridors themselves are more parkland in character than pure links. The Glen serves as an accessible alternative to North Berwick's more famous West Links, offering visitors a chance to experience Braid's design philosophy in a less pressured setting. The club maintains a welcoming atmosphere for both members and guests, and the course provides a solid test of golf without the severe difficulty or exposure of the region's championship links. Its location makes it a practical addition to any East Lothian golf itinerary.