The Leddie: The must-visit venue for your next stay-and-play golf trip

The Leddie Hotel in Aberlady

A refined retreat in the heart of East Lothian, offering historic charm, modern comfort, and easy access to some of Scotland’s most iconic golf courses. 

East Lothian is renowned for being home to some of the best golf courses in Scotland, and after a stay-and-play trip to the picturesque conservation village of Aberlady, it’s clear that The Leddie is the ideal places to stay for your next golf trip.

The hotel

The Leddie is a beautifully restored boutique property that evokes a sense of both heritage and tranquillity. From the outside, the building stands proud with its stone façade full of character, one of those rare properties where history is celebrated.

Stepping inside, there’s a warm glow of ambient lighting, the soft scent of aged wood, and the tasteful interior styling which all combine to offer a feeling of calm. The interiors scream Scottish elegance, with muted greens, classic tartans, and wool throws draped across antique armchairs and polished wooden furniture. A roaring open fire is the focal point of the lounge area, where guests can settle into deep, inviting sofas with a book, or a dram of local whisky. 

Every part of The Leddie feels carefully planned, from the handpicked art and local details to the soft background music that sets the vibe throughout.

Once a 17th-century inn, The Leddie is a building steeped in history. Tastefully modernised, the property now blends its original architectural details such as exposed beams, stone fireplaces, and quirky floorplans, with sleek modern amenities that today’s traveller expects. 

The main building features a selection of individually designed rooms, but I stayed in one of the two Cottage Suites, which are located just a short walk from the hotel entrance. These suites provide a quiet haven of privacy and space, perfect for couples, golfers with gear in tow, or anyone seeking a more secluded stay.

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The suite itself was impressively spacious. The extra-large bed was exceptionally comfortable, dressed in crisp linens and plush pillows that guaranteed a restful night. Large windows flooded the room with natural light during the day, while heavy curtains ensured a dark and peaceful sleep. The bathroom was sleek and modern, with elegant fixtures and a generous walk-in shower. 

What elevated the experience were the thoughtful touches: homemade shortbread left waiting in a ceramic dish beside a handwritten welcome card, and a selection of luxurious toiletries. It’s these little gestures that transform a stay into an experience. 

The golf

While The Leddie itself does have golf course, its location is unrivalled for those seeking to explore some of Scotland’s best links courses. The hotel is ideally positioned along the East Lothian coastline with an extraordinary range of historic and challenging courses within easy reach. 

On this visit, I played at Kilspindie Golf Club, a mere 30 seconds away by car, or a very short scenic walk, should you feel so inclined. Founded in 1867 and designed by Willie Park Jr. and Ben Sayers, Kilspindie is officially recognised as the 35th oldest golf club in the world. 

The course itself is a classic Scottish links, where the elements play as much a part as the layout. It begins with a rare par-3, played directly north into the prevailing wind, a tough introduction to the course. The 2nd hole, a par-5, feels at times like a par-6 thanks to the wind that whips across Aberlady Bay. 

Every hole offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape: rolling fairways, sweeping dunes, and the tranquil waters of the Firth of Forth. The fairways hug the nature reserve, and the soundtrack is one of seabirds. Golfers who appreciate both tradition and challenge will really enjoy this course. 

Green fees at Kilspindie range between £80 and £100, depending on the time of day. While it may not be the cheapest in the region, its exceptional value considering the prestige, conditioning, and impressive coastal views. For those planning a longer golf stay, nearby courses include Gullane, Archerfield, Craigielaw, Longniddry, Luffness, and the world-renowned Muirfield, all within a very short drive.

Food and drink

Dining at The Leddie is a luxurious experience. With only one restaurant on-site, the focus here is on quality over quantity, and that commitment shines through in every dish. The menu is built around seasonal, locally sourced Scottish ingredients, and it delivers both refinement and comfort.

The restaurant is intimate but unpretentious, with attentive service and an inviting atmosphere. The staff were well-versed in both the menu and beverage pairings, eager to recommend a particular single malt or suggest one of their locally brewed craft beers. 

The high standard continued at breakfast the following morning. A dish of locally caught smoked haddock and poached egg, a perfect start to the day before heading out onto the Scottish links. 

Facilities and services

The Leddie’s charm lies in its details. One of the most delightful aspects of my stay was the lobby lounge, where guests are encouraged to retire to after dinner. Playing cards, board games, books, and a selection of local magazines are available, creating a relaxing space to unwind. 

Evening hours are best spent beside the fire with a post-dinner drink in hand, perhaps a local gin, or a warming dram of Speyside whisky. The atmosphere is calm, and it’s clear that many guests return here not just for the rooms or golf, but for the comfort of the place itself. 

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The staff were exceptional throughout: consistently cheerful, welcoming, and eager to help. There’s a sense of pride among the team, and it shows in every interaction, from check-in to dining and beyond. Service here is more than just professional, and it’s delivered with genuine warmth and attentiveness.

Things to see and do

While The Leddie is a destination in itself, its location in East Lothian opens up many opportunities for adventure. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal base for both golfers and general explorers. 

Just a short drive away is North Berwick, a charming coastal town offering boutique shopping, seafront promenades, and the renowned Scottish Seabird Centre, where visitors can learn about local marine life or take a boat trip to Bass Rock. For a more historical outing, nearby Tantallon Castle, perched dramatically above the sea, offers a glimpse into medieval Scotland with its towering walls and breathtaking views. 

Gullane, another nearby village, is equally picturesque and is home to not only world-class golf but also sandy beaches, fine dining, and the Museum of Flight, where visitors can get up close with iconic aircraft including Concorde. 

Dunbar, further along the coast, offers attractions such as Belhaven Brewery, Victoria Harbour, and charming coastal walks. And for those who prefer a slower pace, The John Muir Way offers scenic routes through East Lothian’s varied landscapes.

Book your stay and play now

For more information, to view current offers, and to book a stay at The Leddie, please click here.

Or, you can get in touch with the team below:

Email: hello@theleddie.com
Tel: 01875 440644

The Leddie
W Main St
Aberlady
EH32 0RE