A group of about twelve of us went out from Edinburgh to play Braids Hill one Sunday afternoon in autumn 2004. We were from all over the world and there to study golf course design at the Edinburgh College of Art, with the sanction of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects.
None of us knew the place previously, we only chose it because it was convenient and inexpensive, £17 greenfee, as I recall. We were all amazed that such a gem of a place could remain so anonymous. It was a memorable as any of the prominent links courses that I've played in the British Isles. Afterwards, at the bar, it won unanimous praise from all the group.
For the price, it was probably the best value for money that I have ever experienced in golf.
But as I remember, the name is coincidental, and Braids Hill has no relationship with James Braid.