East Lothian gets greens lights for a summer of golf

Scotland’s golf coast is ready for a summer of sporting action as East Lothian gets set to host a line-up of events.

Chief executive of VisitScotland Malcolm Roughead got his hands on the Aberdeen Standard Investments (ASI) Scottish Open trophy at this years’ VisitScotland’s EXPO – a sign of what is to come.

An annual highlight, the ASI Scottish Open is expected to attract thousands of visitors to East Lothian this summer, making it an ideal time for golfers and golf fans to come and experience this ‘must-play’ golfing destination.

Gullane Golf Club will once again host the event, welcoming world-class golfers to the course. The Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open will return to the club from 12 to 15 July, later welcoming the Aberdeen Standard Investments Ladies Scottish Open from 26 to 29 July 2018.

Visitors to Gullane can also expect an entertainment-packed village, boasting activities for all the family including music, children’s events and food and drink outlets showcasing the very best of East Lothian’s world-class local produce.

Craigielaw Golf Club is next on the list to receive golfing legends, with the venue playing host to the Scottish Senior Open – recently re-branded the Staysure Tour – from 14 to 16 September.

VisitScotland chief executive Malcolm Roughead (right) gets to grips with the Scottish Open trophy

Later in the year, the World Hickory Open will return to Scotland’s Golf Coast for the 14th time, and run from 21 to 26 October at Luffness New, Kilspindie and, for the first time, Longniddry.

The tournament steps back in time with many participants playing in vintage costumes to match the historic hickory clubs, organisers say it is a chance for spectators to get a real flavour of how the game used to be played.

Councillor John McMillan, Provost of East Lothian and Cabinet spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism, said:

‘This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Scotland’s Golf Coast to a global audience, promoting our truly great golf courses and wonderful hospitality to the golfing community.’

‘The stunning setting of Gullane will be particularly on show for the ASI Scottish Open – and what a show it will provide, with its challenging course and stunning scenery.

‘I hope to welcome visitors from all over the world to East Lothian for our absolute feast of golf this summer and autumn. – and I hope to be welcoming them back for years to come!’