Longniddry
The combination of sandy links soil, bumpy terrain
and pine tree-lined fairways comes together
beautifully at Longniddry. Set next to the shoreline
of the Firth of Forth, the clubhouse overlooks several holes with
the sea beyond. From here the 1st hole streaks into a backdrop
of tall trees. It’s a wonderful start. The tall pines define the front
nine as Longniddry flows over a number of different landscapes.
It adds to the thrill of the course and your approach shot on the
short par four 5th, to a shelf green, is one of the highlights. That
said, both of the front nine’s par threes play from high tees to well
bunkered greens below. Memorable tee shots, both. From the
11th on you start finding links influences… particularly those of the
smooth, mischievous variety. Trees remain a feature (the dogleg
12th especially) but there is more space and the roll of the land now
requires serious consideration. Longniddry has not one par five but
with eight of the 14 par fours stretching over 400 yards (from the
recommended white tees) the par of 68 is utterly deceptive… which
also describes many of the holes. Yes, it’s a demanding course but
it is also hugely enjoyable. It’s a sweet combination and that tight
sandy soil is a pleasure to play off.
www.longniddrygolfclub.co.uk
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