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Bruntsfield Links: Edinburgh’s Historic Golfing Parkland

Historic Edinburgh parkland famed for its ancient golfing heritage, scenic green spaces, and vibrant community atmosphere.

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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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

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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.

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