Some of the world’s best golfers are set to have their skills tested in East Lothian this weekend as the abrdn Scottish Open returns to Scotland’s Golf Coast.
The tournament, part of the prestigious European Tour, takes place at the Renaissance Club, between Gullane and Dirleton, from Thursday 8th to Sunday 11th July.
Although spectator numbers have had to be limited this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will still be a number of fans at the course each day and the event is sold out. There will be ample free parking available for spectators, with clear signposting in place.
With very limited parking restrictions in neighbouring towns & villages, visitors can also access the rest of East Lothian and extend their golfing experience by visiting local shops and hospitality venues. It also means locals and other visitors can still enjoy easy access to the coast, countryside and towns while the tournament is on – although roads may be busier than normal, particularly at the beginning and end of the golfing day. For more information, visit the European Tour website
Councillor John McMillan, East Lothian Council’s spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “It is a real boost for East Lothian, Scotland’s Golf Coast, to be hosting this prestigious tournament once again. Although spectator numbers have had to be much reduced, which is absolutely the right thing to do in the current stage of the pandemic and the easing of restrictions, I’m sure those attending will have a fantastic time watching some of the world’s best golfers competing in one of the world’s best golfing locations. The tournament organisers have ensured that with strict COVID mitigations are in place to protect both the local community and the viability of the tournament.
“We anticipate that the tournament will benefit East Lothian in immediate visitor spend from spectators and those involved in the setup of the competition and the players’ entourages, but also from the superb TV coverage which will encourage the booking of golfing breaks to East Lothian, Scotland’s Golf Coast, mainly from the UK market this year but the global market beyond that.
“There is a wealth of information on East Lothian for visitors at www.visiteastlothian.org and on its world-class golf at www.scotlandsgolfcoast.com
“And we are, of course, also Scotland’s Food & Drink County, which I do hope visitors will particularly enjoy discovering. www.scotlandsfooddrinkcounty.com All of our local businesses have done a fantastic job in making their premises safe to visit.
“I would like to wish all the competitors the best of luck – and to all our visitors – welcome to East Lothian and do come back and visit us again soon!”