It has taken me about 7/8 different coaches over the years and I think I've finally found one who A) cares B) communicates things well with me C) works.
Whether you want to admit it or not, learning the basic fundamentals and set up stuff etc will be pivotal to your progress. It sounds like...
I've had quite a few but one recent one that sticks in mind.
Recent game on a top 30 links course. On a par 5, I hit the two most perfect golf shots. Drive 250 on a rope down them middle, 220 left into the green, thought I'd pull a 3 wood out and just get it up there trusting my short game...
I understand mats, I get it but I absolutely detest them.
Unfortunately the climate is only going to get worse and this is something we are going to need to get used to.
Think my first handicap index was 22 or thereabouts, just the season WHS came in. I knew it was always going to drop a bit as I was capable but just needed to have a few good days, it has certainly dropped overall since but it has fluctuated and last year it actually climbed up the way again...
I am on the waiting list for Cragielaw, I was told 2-3 years when I joined the list last year, it's now 4/5 years apparently. No harm joining the list.
Archerfield I looked at too but the debenture is the killer there.
The Glen also have a waiting list now.
Monktonhall/Longniddry could be...
This year I've got rounds at the following booked;
Carnoustie Champ, New Course St.A, Royal Aberdeen, Trump Aberdeen, Castle Course St.A, Eden St.A, Jubilee St.A, The Dukes, Downfield, Muirfield, Elie, Blairgowrie x 2, Dalmahoy x 2, Machrihanish, Machrihanish Dunes, The Machrie, Dunaverty, Royal...
This is exactly what happened to me when I started speed training last year, followed by months of misery on the golf course even with my new found speed. I regret it hugely and I've basically spent this winter dialling it back.
Apart from the obvious NB, Muirfield, Gullane 1 etc
Luffness?
Monktonhall
Depending on your way home potential options for your last day;
Goswick
Bamburgh
Seahouses
Roxburghe
Peebles