Muirfield, home to “The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers” (HCEG), is the world’s oldest golf club, founded in 1744. Originally played on Leith Links, HCEG formalised the first official rules of golf. Muirfield, designed by Old Tom Morris, opened in 1891 as a 16-hole course, expanding to 18 holes shortly after. In 1923, Harry Colt redesigned it, creating the layout largely intact today, characterised by its unique concentric rings of nine holes, ensuring varied wind challenges.
Host to fifteen Open Championships, most recently in 2013, Muirfield is praised by professionals for its fairness. Bernard Darwin, in his 1910 book “The Golf Courses of the British Isles,” lauded its scenic solitude and challenging nature. The course also hosted the 1973 Ryder Cup, where the USA narrowly defeated Great Britain & Ireland.
Muirfield’s design stands out for its strategic complexity. The 554-yard par five 9th hole is notorious for its narrow fairway and strategically placed bunkers. The 191-yard 13th hole, protected by five bunkers, is one of the best short holes in the Open circuit. Known for its spongy seaside turf, deep bunkers, thick rough, and small, tricky greens, Muirfield demands precision and thoughtful play.
In preparation for the 2013 Open, the course was lengthened to 7,192 yards, par 71, enhancing its difficulty. Despite modern updates, Muirfield retains its traditional charm and remains a premier test of golf skill.
