Situated to the southwest of the city of Edinburgh on the slopes of the Pentland Hills, the course rises from the clubhouse approximately 300 feet to its highest point at the 13th green. There is only one real climb of note and that is after playing the 2nd shot to the 9th green. Although the course would be considered short by today's standards at only 5,662 yards, it nevertheless presents a good test of golf with a par of 71.

The course, like many, started as 9 holes and was gradually increased until James Braid designed the final layout in 1929. Lothianburn has always been noted for its excellent greens and some of these are even faster, during the summer, that those at Augusta National. From the top of the course at around 900 feet above sea level (holes 13 and 14), there are excellent views of Edinburgh City and the surrounding district.

Each hole is a different challenge, for instance, the 5th where you drive for position in order to pitch at almost right angles to a plateau green, and the 14th being the longest hole on the course three quarters of which is downhill with out of bounds on both sides of the fairway. The remaining quarter represents a very long pitch up to another plateau green. The clubhouse is well appointed with a secure visitors changing room which will accomodate twenty people. Catering of any description is available every day except Wednesday. A well stocked, professional's shop is run by Kurt Mangall who also carries out all club repairs. He is noted as an excellent teacher.