Like a youngster on Xmas morning I arrived at the gates of the Renaissance Club excited at the prospect of sampling the delights of this exclusive private members club. I pressed the button simply labelled and the gates to the wonderland, slowly and elegantly opened. Like a Le mans racing driver I jumped in the car in double quick time to ensure I made safe passage, I was leaving nothing to chance.

On arrival I left my clubs with bag drop and presented myself to the main desk, where I was welcomed to the club and given a 30 second introduction where I would find everything. Nothing here is too much, spare laundered swimming shorts should you have forgotten your own to have a pre or post round jacuzzi overlooking the 18th green for example, adjacent to the luxurious locker, complete with my name tag for the day.

After a quick warm up on the splendid range, where pyramids of Pro Vs await for your dispatch I made my way to the first tee, where I met my caddy for the day Connor, an accomplished pro golfer, his valuable target lines and reads on the greens, and general banter made the round so much more enjoyable.

I was blown away by the course, so much better than I was expecting, with definition, variety, visually stimulating even before you even set sight on the amazing East Lothian coastline, and the signature par 4 10th hole, where a contender for the best view of a half way house greets you on completion.

The greens rolled beautifully, true and at a good pace (despite over seeding). The inclusion of old walls left around a few greens reminds you of the nearby North Berwick GC and adds a uniqueness.

There are no weak holes on the layout, and for me had a lot of memorable holes on the layout, and very difficult to call out a particular favourite, but I particularly enjoyed the 1st that awakes you to the nature of the greens, the 2nd a clever shorter par 4 hole to an elevated narrow green, the 10th for its proximity to the coastline, the 1tth and 17th which are really strong par3s and finally the 18th which is a long strong uphill par 4 played into a 2 club wind, which thanks to my able stead Connor I managed to birdie and make a most memorable experience just that wee touch better.

I will be eternally grateful to get the opportunity to play and experience the Renaissance and the day will live me long into the future.