Residing in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, amidst the renowned castle and lively streets, is a historical treasure that often escapes the notice of most visitors. The Bruntsfield Short Hole Golf Course, nestled in an expanse of open grass, boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
Jimmy Robertson, the custodian of the greens, is a devoted volunteer responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the 36 small, precisely-manicured putting surfaces that constitute the course. Inherited from his father, Jimmy takes great pride in conserving the distinctive history and allure of the course, which has remained largely unaltered since its inception.
The course itself meanders through public land, presenting a picturesque backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano near the heart of Edinburgh. Despite its historical significance, the course remains open to the public for play, and is frequented by a small, dedicated group of golfers who convene weekly for convivial competitions and post-game refreshments at the nearby tavern.
The course’s rich heritage is underscored by a circular blue plaque on an adjacent edifice, denoting the location where the world’s first golf clubhouse once stood. Nonetheless, despite its historical significance, the course remains largely undiscovered by many regular players.
Members of the Bruntsfield Short Hole Golf Club pay a modest annual fee to contribute to the maintenance of the course, affording them access to competitions and the camaraderie of fellow golf enthusiasts. The club’s laid-back ambience and unique layout render it a popular choice among players of differing skill levels, offering a refreshing departure from traditional, lengthier courses.
The narrative of the course is epitomized through devoted members like Paul Middleton, who boasts the course record with an impressive score of 90. His fervour for the game and the course serves as a testament to the unique allure of this hidden gem.
For a mere five pounds, visitors can hire clubs and balls from the Golf Tavern, the oldest extant pub in Scotland, and relish a memorable round of golf capped by a refreshing local pint. This affords more than just an enjoyable game of golf; it provides a unique insight into the rich history of the sport in Scotland’s capital.
If you are contemplating a visit to Edinburgh and possess even the faintest interest in the game, do not overlook the chance to bask in the charm and historical significance of the Bruntsfield Short Hole Golf Course. Concealed in plain sight, its value is genuinely unparalleled, rendering it an indispensable destination for any golf enthusiast journeying to Scotland.