The Golf House Club, Elie was founded in 1875 on land that had been used for golf since the 16th century. The course is laid out across the dune fields west of the village, with sea views from most holes and a quirky first hole that is completely blind from the tee — which is why the starter's hut has a periscope from a Royal Navy submarine, used to check whether the fairway is clear.
It's not as famous as Muirfield or St Andrews and is much friendlier as a result. Visitors are welcome on most weekdays with a sensible green fee. The clubhouse is modest by the standards of historic Scottish clubs, but the rooms are full of trophies, photographs, and the particular quiet of a place where serious golf has been played for 150 years.