http://www.elmparkgolfandsportsclub....golf.1981.html

This is one public course that is close to Dublin and public transport.

For an authentic Scottish experience, see if you can find a Ceilidh to attend. A Ceilidh is an evening of (mostly) Scottish folk dances open for public participation - you can participate too if you like - there is a caller calling out the steps, sort of like a US square dance. The TI office will know if there is one being held, and if so, try not to miss it - it is more fun than should be legal. The proceeds usually go to benefit a charity. Some will also have a bag pipe and drum exhibition and individual dance exhibitions. Here is a link to the one we attended. We planned to stay an hour to see what it was like, but stayed the entire evening.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/basing...7624212466998/

We also very much like the B&B called 14 Hart. It is in walking distance to most everything and the hosts were most gracious and a font of info. It is a bit past your budget, but I do not think by much and hey, each room comes with a decanter of Scotch, help yourself no extra charge. Here is a link to photos of the B&B. Its name is also its address.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/basing...7624151015633/


You may also enjoy an evening at Sandy Bell's pub. Every night after about 9, local musicians arrive for informal jam sessions of mostly traditional music. The place fills up so arrive a bit early and have a pint or two while waiting, You will most likely end up sharing a table and making new friends.

Should have mentioned that all of the above is in Edinburgh.

One last thing. If you like vegetarian food, David Bann's in Edinburgh is what a vegetarian restaurant should be. It has a creative menu and upscale atmosphere (but not upscale prices). Lunch at The Witchery, very near the Castle, is far more affordable than dinner, but make your reservations early - it fills up quickly for lunch. We made ours in the AM on the way to the castle tour. The food is excellent, the atmosphere is elegant, and the lunch menu is well priced for what you get.