Bruntsfield Links: Edinburgh’s Historic Golfing Parkland
Historic Edinburgh parkland famed for its ancient golfing heritage, scenic green spaces, and vibrant community atmosphere.
Bruntsfield Links is a 35-acre open parkland in Edinburgh, renowned as one of the oldest golfing sites in the world. This historic green space, located just southwest of The Meadows, offers a unique blend of rich heritage, scenic views, and recreational opportunities, including a celebrated short-hole golf course and a vibrant community atmosphere.
A brief summary to Bruntsfield Links
- Melville Dr, Edinburgh, GB
- +441315295151
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during spring to early autumn for the best golfing conditions on the short-hole course.
- Explore the raised areas near Warrender Park Terrace for panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline and festival fireworks.
- Take time to visit the historic Golf Tavern pub adjacent to the Links for a taste of local heritage.
- Use the footpaths and cycle lanes to connect Bruntsfield Links with nearby Meadows and the city centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Several Lothian Buses routes serve Melville Drive near Bruntsfield Links, with frequent service from Edinburgh city centre taking approximately 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 GBP one way. Buses run daily but check schedules for weekend frequency.
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Tram and Walk
Take the Edinburgh Tram to the West End stop, then enjoy a 20-minute walk through scenic streets to Bruntsfield Links. The tram fare is about £6.50 GBP for a single journey from the airport or city centre. Walking paths are paved and accessible.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city centre to Bruntsfield Links takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8-£12 GBP. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially with golf equipment.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Bruntsfield Links is pleasant and accessible, with routes through residential neighborhoods and parks taking 20-30 minutes. Terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all fitness levels.
Bruntsfield Links location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Bruntsfield Links
An Ancient Landscape Shaped by History
Bruntsfield Links occupies a significant place in Edinburgh’s history as the last remnant of the Burgh Muir, a vast woodland cleared by royal decree in 1508. This area once stretched southwards to the Jordan Burn and was a wild hunting ground for Scottish nobility, home to deer and wild boar, and inhabited by outlaws in earlier centuries. The land’s transformation from dense forest to open parkland reflects centuries of urban development and civic stewardship.The Cradle of Scottish Golf
Bruntsfield Links is celebrated as one of the earliest known locations where golf was played in Scotland. The Royal Burgess Golfing Society, founded in 1735, and the Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society, established in 1761, are among the world’s oldest golf clubs, with deep roots in this park. The original 6-hole course evolved into a 36-hole short-hole course in 1890, offering a unique golfing experience that tests players’ short games over natural terrain. The course remains a cherished local and visitor attraction, maintained by the City of Edinburgh Council and volunteers.Architectural and Cultural Landmarks
The Links are bordered by notable buildings and features, including the historic Golf Tavern pub, reputedly dating back to 1456, and the Green Hut, a familiar landmark since 1929 originally serving as a cabbies’ shelter. The park’s proximity to Edinburgh’s city centre and its integration with surrounding neighborhoods make it a vibrant social and cultural hub, blending leisure, history, and community life.Recreation Beyond Golf
While golf is central to Bruntsfield Links’ identity, the park also offers diverse recreational opportunities. Its open spaces are popular for walking, picnicking, and sledging in winter. The adjacent Edinburgh Croquet Club and children’s playpark add to the family-friendly atmosphere. The raised ground near Warrender Park Terrace provides excellent vantage points for viewing Edinburgh’s festival fireworks and city skyline.Natural Beauty and Urban Green Space
The park’s mature trees and well-maintained lawns create a tranquil oasis within the urban environment. Unlike nearby Meadows, which was once a loch, Bruntsfield Links has always been dry ground, preserving its natural character. The footpaths and cycle lanes connecting it to other parts of the city encourage sustainable transport and active lifestyles, enhancing its role as a vital green lung for Edinburgh.Community and Conservation Efforts
Local volunteers and the City Council work together to preserve Bruntsfield Links’ historic golf course and parkland. Their stewardship ensures the area remains accessible and enjoyable for future generations. The Links’ enduring legacy as a sporting, cultural, and natural landmark continues to enrich Edinburgh’s heritage and community spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Meadows Compass
0.8 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Flodden Wall
0.8 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
1.0 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
1.0 km
Discover the rich military history and breathtaking views of the Forward and Half Moon Battery at Edinburgh Castle, a must-see for every traveler.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
1.0 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
1.0 km
Discover the haunting beauty of Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh's historic cemetery filled with stories, legends, and architectural wonders.
Edinburgh Castle
1.0 km
Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage with stunning views, rich history, and cultural treasures.
St Margaret's Chapel
1.1 km
Experience the tranquility of St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest chapel in Edinburgh, nestled within the historic Edinburgh Castle, a spiritual gem for every traveler.
National Museum of Scotland
1.1 km
Discover Scotland's rich heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, an engaging cultural hub showcasing the nation's history and identity.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
1.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Scotch whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, where tradition meets taste in every sip.
The India Cross
1.1 km
Discover The India Cross in Edinburgh, a historical landmark that showcases the city's cultural connections with India amidst stunning surroundings.
The Witches Well
1.1 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
Pont George Ⅳ
1.1 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
1.1 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
1.1 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Blackbird
0.2 km
A lively Edinburgh gastropub with a spacious beer garden, modern Scottish cuisine, and a welcoming, eclectic atmosphere.
Edinburgh Cab Tours
0.3 km
Experience Edinburgh like never before with personalized tours from Edinburgh Cab Tours, uncovering history, culture, and breathtaking views.
Hoots - Comedy, Drag, & Cabaret Bar
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy and drag cabaret bar blending laughter, glamour, and local talent in a lively, inclusive setting.
Lochrin Basin
0.5 km
A serene canal terminus blending historic charm and modern urban life in the heart of Edinburgh’s Fountainbridge.
Söderberg The Meadows
0.8 km
Experience authentic Swedish pastries and artisanal sourdough delights in a cozy Edinburgh café near the university.
Escape Edinburgh
0.8 km
Dive into immersive escape rooms on Morrison Street, where clever puzzles and captivating stories await every team.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
0.9 km
Discover a tranquil, iconic viewpoint offering stunning, close-up views of Edinburgh Castle framed by historic Old Town charm.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.9 km
Discover the craft of brewing at Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom in Edinburgh, where great beer and live music create a unique atmosphere.
21 Grassmarket
0.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s historic Grassmarket: a lively medieval marketplace beneath the castle, rich in stories, culture, and timeless charm.
The Usher Hall
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s iconic Edwardian concert hall renowned for world-class acoustics and diverse performances in a majestic historic setting.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
0.9 km
Discover fresh Scottish produce and artisanal delights every Saturday with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at Castle Terrace Farmers' Market.
Edinburgh Guided Tour
1.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural heart through the iconic Usher Hall and its rich musical heritage on an immersive guided tour.
Lothian Rd
1.0 km
Lothian Road pulses with Edinburgh’s cultural heartbeat, blending historic theatres, cinemas, and vibrant urban life beneath the shadow of the castle.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
1.0 km
Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
George Square
1.0 km
Historic Georgian square blending academic heritage, tranquil gardens, and vibrant culture in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
The Rabbit Hole
0.6 km
Cozy British dining with modern French flair in Edinburgh’s welcoming Marchmont neighborhood.
TIMBERYARD
0.8 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Dine Edinburgh
1.0 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Beehive Inn
1.0 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
1.0 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Under The Stairs
1.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Amber Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
1.1 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Witchery by the Castle
1.1 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Maison Bleue
1.1 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
The Outsider Restaurant
1.1 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
1.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
First Coast Restaurant
1.2 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
Howies Restaurant
1.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Locanda de Gusti
1.2 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporium 62
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
0.4 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Nice Stuff
0.5 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
Edinburgh Art Shop
0.5 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Poundland
0.7 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Everyone's Designs
0.7 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Herman Brown
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Godiva
0.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Armstrongs Vintage
1.0 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Mr Wood's Fossils
1.1 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Portcullis Gift Shop
1.1 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
The Enchanted Galaxy
1.1 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
1.1 km
Discover Scotland's rich textile heritage at the Tartan Weaving Mill, where history meets craftsmanship in a vibrant exhibition and unique shopping experience.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
1.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
The Raging Bull
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.7 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Dragonfly
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
1.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
1.0 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
1.0 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
1.1 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
1.1 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
1.1 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Bow Bar
1.1 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Jolly Botanist
1.1 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
56 North
1.2 km
Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar and distillery offering award-winning spirits, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food in Edinburgh’s Newington.
The Caley Bar
1.2 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Jolly Judge
1.2 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly