Ayrshire Awaits
Prestwick St Nicholas
Nestled on Scotland's stunning west coast, Ayrshire is a golfer's dream. This region is a treasure trove of world-class courses, rich golfing heritage, and breathtaking coastal views. Whether you're a seasoned player or a passionate enthusiast, Ayrshire offers a golfing experience that’s second to none. Let’s take a tour of its remarkable courses and explore the exceptional accommodations that make this destination truly unforgettable.
Ayrshire’s rich golfing legacy begins at Prestwick Golf Club, the birthplace of The Open Championship and a course that embodies the very soul of links golf. As the host of the first Open in 1860, and 24 subsequent stagings, Prestwick holds a revered place in the game’s history. Walking these fairways is like stepping back in time, where every hole whispers stories of past champions and the evolution of golf as we know it today.
Designed by Old Tom Morris, Prestwick is a true original, an intriguing blend of natural terrain, bold architecture, and a sense of playfulness that has long captivated purists of the game. The course winds through the dunes, rumpled fairways, and rugged bunkers, offering an experience that is both strategic and thrilling. It’s a course that doesn’t rely on length, but rather on guile, touch, and a respect for the land.
Golfers will find endless fascination in holes like the 3rd, guarded by the formidable “Cardinal” bunker, a cavernous hazard flanked by railway sleepers and the Pow Burn. And then there’s the unforgettable “Alps” 17th hole, a classic blind approach over a dune to a hidden green, a rare and joyful nod to golf’s earliest designs. These features, combined with Prestwick’s idiosyncratic routing and firm, fast conditions, make it a round like no other.
But it’s not just the course that leaves a lasting impression. The clubhouse is a living museum, home to artefacts from golf’s earliest days, including the original Open Championship belt. The welcome is warm, the tradition palpable, and the entire experience one of genuine authenticity.
For those who appreciate golf’s roots and the artistry of links design, Prestwick is not just a round of golf… it’s a pilgrimage.
Just a short drive from Prestwick lies Royal Troon, another jewel in Ayrshire’s glittering golfing crown and a venue steeped in tradition, prestige, and championship pedigree. As a proud nine-time host of The Open Championship, Royal Troon has witnessed some of the game’s most iconic moments, including Henrik Stenson’s record-breaking victory in 2016, where he outduelled Phil Mickelson in one of the greatest final rounds in major championship history.
The Old Course at Royal Troon offers a quintessential Scottish links experience, firm, fast fairways; deep, penal bunkers; and the ever-present influence of the wind blowing in from the Firth of Clyde. The layout is a tale of two nines: the front nine is deceptively accommodating, gently easing you into the round with scoring opportunities… if you can avoid the pot bunkers and navigate the subtle contours. But don’t be fooled: the back nine is widely regarded as one of the toughest in Open Championship golf, demanding unwavering concentration, shot-making precision, and mental resilience.
At the heart of the course lies the infamous “Postage Stamp” 8th hole, just 123 yards from the back tees, yet one of the most feared par-3s in the world. With its tiny, elevated green surrounded by deep bunkers and exposed to the coastal wind, it punishes even the slightest misjudgement and remains an unforgettable test of nerve and control.
Off the course, the experience is just as memorable. The clubhouse exudes history and tradition, offering panoramic views of the links and warm Scottish hospitality to visiting golfers. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply soaking in the aura of a course that has shaped golfing legends, Royal Troon delivers a world-class experience worthy of its name.
Few golfing destinations can rival the grandeur and sense of occasion that Trump Turnberry offers. Perched majestically on the Ayrshire coastline, this iconic resort delivers an unforgettable experience from the moment you arrive. Its most recognisable landmark, the lighthouse at the edge of the Ailsa course, stands watch over the Firth of Clyde, with the distinctive outline of Ailsa Craig ever-present on the horizon. It’s a setting that stirs the soul, even before a club is drawn from the bag.
The Ailsa course, masterfully redesigned by Martin Ebert, is widely considered one of the most visually spectacular and strategically challenging courses in the world. The redesign elevated the course to new heights, with several holes now hugging the rugged coastline and showcasing the drama of the landscape to full effect. Signature holes such as the par-3 9th, playing over the rocks with the lighthouse beyond, make for unforgettable moments in any golfer’s journey.
Having hosted four Open Championships, the Ailsa is steeped in history, most notably the legendary ‘Duel in the Sun’ between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson in 1977, an enduring highlight in the championship’s rich tapestry. Yet for all its heritage, the course remains progressive and meticulously maintained, ensuring a world-class test for the modern player.
For those seeking a more understated yet equally rewarding challenge, Gailes Links and Western Gailes are must-plays.
Gailes Links, designed by the legendary Willie Park Jr., is a classic example of traditional Scottish links golf at its finest. The course weaves seamlessly through natural seaside terrain, offering firm, fast-running fairways, strategically placed pot bunkers, and subtle undulations that demand thoughtful shot-making. It rewards precision and creativity over brute strength, challenging golfers to shape their shots and carefully judge the ever-changing coastal winds.
Its long-standing role as a Final Qualifying venue for The Open Championship speaks volumes about its pedigree and conditioning. The layout has tested some of the game’s best players under tournament pressure, yet it remains entirely playable and enjoyable for club golfers. There's a quiet confidence about Gailes, a course that lets its quality do the talking, rather than relying on grandeur or fanfare.
Western Gailes Golf Club is one of Ayrshire’s true gems, offering a beautifully natural and traditional links experience along Scotland’s rugged west coast. Tucked between the railway line and the ever-changing Firth of Clyde, the course occupies a narrow strip of coastal land that creates a layout as scenic as it is strategic.
What makes Western Gailes so distinctive is its elegantly understated design, where the land dictates the flow of play. The course follows a classic out-and-back routing, with the opening holes heading north alongside the sea, before turning inland and eventually back again. This creates an ebb and flow of rhythm, with each hole presenting its own identity, character, and test.
Golfers are treated to a wonderful variety of shot-making demands, from elevated tee shots and deceptive bunkering to subtle greens and natural undulations. There’s no trickery, just pure links golf that rewards thoughtful play over brute strength. And while the layout itself is compelling, it’s the coastal winds, often shifting and swirling, that truly elevate the challenge, ensuring that no two rounds are ever the same.
Yet for all its toughness, Western Gailes remains a favourite among links purists, admired for its fairness, flow, and sheer authenticity. There’s a sense of timelessness here, no artificial features, no fanfare, just the game, the elements, and a beautifully maintained course shaped by nature.
A warm welcome in the traditional clubhouse and spectacular views across to the Isle of Arran complete the experience. For those who cherish true Scottish links golf without the crowds or commercial trappings, Western Gailes is a must-play that leaves a lasting impression.
Barassie Links, part of Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club, offers a compelling blend of heritage and modern championship golf on Scotland’s west coast. With roots dating back to 1887, the club has evolved into a venue that confidently balances traditional links characteristics with contemporary challenge, earning it a respected place among Ayrshire’s top golfing destinations.
The championship layout is designed to test players of all levels, but particularly appeals to those who relish a competitive edge. With expansive, undulating fairways, precise shot placement is crucial, especially as the course is heavily defended by strategically positioned bunkers and subtle, testing greens that reward patience and skill. The par-72 layout stretches over 7,000 yards from the back tees, providing a true championship test and serving as a frequent host for elite amateur and professional events, including Final Qualifying for The Open.
Barassie is perhaps most celebrated for its variety and contrast. The newer holes, part of a significant extension that now forms a key part of the championship course, bring a bolder, more open feel, while the older, more classic holes exude the charm of a traditional links with tighter driving lines and gorse-lined fairways. This fusion creates a memorable rhythm and flow, keeping players engaged from the first tee to the final putt.
Beyond the course, the club’s friendly, unpretentious atmosphere makes it an appealing choice for visitors looking to experience top-tier links golf in a welcoming environment.
Dundonald Links, located on the scenic Ayrshire coast, is a contemporary classic that has quickly earned a place among Scotland’s premier golfing destinations. Originally laid out by Kyle Phillips, the visionary behind Kingsbarns, the course underwent significant refinement to host prestigious events such as the 2017 Scottish Opens, as well as the Women’s Scottish Open from 2021 to 2025. Today, it stands as a modern masterpiece, combining championship pedigree with environmental sensitivity.
The layout is both visually striking and strategically demanding, with undulating fairways, and wispy fescue rough that come into play throughout the round. The greens are expertly contoured and well-defended, rewarding confident approach play and penalising the slightest misjudgement. While it bears all the hallmarks of a traditional links, firm turf, open vistas, and the ever-present coastal breeze, Dundonald is undeniably modern in its ambition and execution, offering a fair but formidable challenge for all abilities.
Off the course, Dundonald Links has redefined the luxury golf experience in Scotland. Recent multi-million-pound investments have seen the addition of a stunning new clubhouse and a collection of luxury lodges and hotel rooms, creating a resort-style atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. The ethos here is clear: a commitment to sustainability and hospitality in equal measure. The course itself is GEO Certified, a reflection of its eco-conscious design and management, with measures in place to protect the local wildlife, water systems, and native vegetation.
Prestwick St Nicholas Golf Club, founded in 1851, is one of the oldest golf clubs in the world and a true hidden gem along the Ayrshire coast. Old Tom Morris, winner of four Open Championships, was a founding/honorary member of the club. Steeped in history and tradition, the course offers a quintessential links experience that charms golfers from the very first tee. The layout has evolved over time, but it has never lost its classic character or intimate feel.
The course stretches along the shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran, particularly at sunrise and sunset. With firm, fast fairways, subtle undulations, and well-placed bunkers, it’s a course that rewards strategic thinking and shot-making over sheer power. Its compact design ensures that no two holes feel alike, and while it may not stretch to championship length, the challenge is very real, particularly when the coastal breeze picks up.
What sets Prestwick St Nicholas apart is its timeless atmosphere. The historic clubhouse, filled with artefacts and memorabilia, offers a warm welcome and a genuine sense of belonging. This is a club that celebrates its roots while embracing visitors with open arms. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of golfing pioneers or simply enjoying a relaxed round by the sea, a visit here offers a memorable blend of history, hospitality, and traditional links golf.
West Kilbride Golf Club, perched on the northern edge of Ayrshire’s famed golfing coastline, is a true seaside treasure that combines panoramic beauty with a challenging championship layout. With spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran, every round here is accompanied by a sense of tranquillity and drama unique to links golf.
Founded in 1893, the club boasts a proud heritage and a strong reputation among both local members and visiting golfers. The course weaves its way along the shoreline, offering a layout that is as strategic as it is scenic. Undulating fairways, well-bunkered greens, and subtle elevation changes demand focus and finesse, while the ever-present coastal breezes can turn a straightforward hole into a real test of nerve and control.
West Kilbride is known not just for its natural beauty, but also for its exceptional conditioning and warm hospitality. It regularly hosts national and regional championships, yet remains accessible and welcoming to visiting golfers seeking an authentic Ayrshire experience. The clubhouse, with its modern facilities and stunning views, is the perfect place to unwind after a round.
For those exploring the West Coast golfing trail, West Kilbride offers a compelling blend of tradition, quality, and charm, a course where history, scenery, and challenge come together in perfect harmony.
Irvine Golf Club, also known as Bogside, is a classic James Braid design that stands as one of Ayrshire’s most underrated treasures. Founded in 1887 and redesigned by Braid in the 1920s, the course offers a distinctive inland-linksstyle that blends the best of both worlds… coastal character with moorland charm.
Set just a short distance from the Firth of Clyde, Irvine features firm, fast-running fairways, framed by gorse, heather, and native grasses, creating a landscape that is as beautiful as it is demanding. The layout rewards strategic shot-making, with well-placed bunkers, elevated greens, and subtle undulations that challenge even the most experienced golfer.
Despite its pedigree, Irvine retains a sense of tranquillity that’s becoming increasingly rare in championship golf. It’s the kind of course where you can enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted round, often in the company of local wildlife and sweeping views across to the Isle of Arran. The course conditioning is consistently excellent, and its routing ensures a natural, enjoyable flow from start to finish.
Where to Stay in Ayrshire
Ayrshire’s hospitality is as impressive as its golf courses. After a day on the links, relax and unwind at one of these exceptional accommodations:
MARINE TROON
Overlooking the iconic 18th hole of Royal Troon Golf Club, the Marine Troon is a distinguished five-star hotel that offers guests an unforgettable experience of luxury, comfort, and heritage. Following a meticulous refurbishment, the hotel has been transformed into a haven of contemporary sophistication while remaining deeply rooted in Ayrshire’s rich golfing traditions.
Each of the spacious guest rooms and suites has been thoughtfully designed to provide a tranquil retreat, many offering panoramic views of the golf course and the rugged Ayrshire coastline. Interiors feature elegant furnishings, plush bedding, and subtle design touches that pay homage to the game's legacy in the region.
The Marine Troon’s state-of-the-art spa invites relaxation with a range of rejuvenating treatments, an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and fully equipped fitness centre – perfect for unwinding after a round of golf or a day exploring the coast.
Dining at the Marine Troon is an experience in itself. The hotel’s signature restaurant showcases the best of Scottish produce, crafted into refined seasonal dishes. Guests can enjoy their meals with stunning views across the links and out to the Firth of Clyde, making every meal a moment to savour.
TRUMP TURNBERRY
For those seeking the pinnacle of indulgence on Scotland’s west coast, Trump Turnberry stands in a class of its own. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Ayrshire coastline, this iconic resort is renowned not only for its legendary links golf but also for its world-class hospitality and unrivalled elegance.
The hotel itself is a masterpiece of Edwardian architecture, exuding timeless grandeur with its sweeping staircases, glittering chandeliers, and meticulously restored interiors. Each guest room and suite is exquisitely appointed, offering refined luxury with a contemporary twist. Expect plush furnishings, marble bathrooms, and breathtaking views across the championship courses, the Firth of Clyde, and the Isle of Arran beyond.
Turnberry’s culinary offering is equally impressive. Guests can savour gourmet dining at 1906, the resort’s signature restaurant, or enjoy more relaxed fare at The Duel in the Sun, all prepared with the finest locally sourced ingredients. Every meal is elevated by attentive service and stunning coastal vistas.
Beyond the golf, Turnberry provides an exceptional range of leisure facilities. The award-winning spa offers a sanctuary of serenity, featuring an infinity pool with sea views, indulgent ESPA treatments, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. For something truly unique, the Turnberry Equestrian Centre allows guests to experience the thrill of horse riding along the beach or through the Ayrshire countryside.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a golfing pilgrimage, Trump Turnberry delivers an experience defined by elegance, excellence, and unforgettable memories.
DUNDONALD LINKS
Dundonald Links has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, now offering a world-class stay-and-play experience that rivals the very best in golf hospitality. At the heart of this evolution is a stunning collection of luxury lodges and an architecturally impressive clubhouse, designed with the modern golfer in mind.
Nestled beside the championship course, the lodges are the epitome of comfort and contemporary style. Each lodge is beautifully appointed with spacious open-plan living areas, fully equipped kitchens, en-suite bedrooms, and private outdoor terraces—ideal for relaxing with friends or family after a day on the fairways. With configurations suited to groups of all sizes, from two-person escapes to larger golfing parties, they offer the perfect balance of privacy and social space.
The state-of-the-art clubhouse is a destination in itself, boasting panoramic views over the Ayrshire coastline and the links beyond. Inside, you’ll find a warm welcome and a wealth of amenities, including an elegant bar and restaurant showcasing the best of Scottish cuisine, a well-stocked pro shop, and luxurious locker rooms that make every visit feel like a special occasion.
SOUTH BEACH HOTEL
For those in search of traditional Scottish hospitality and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, the South Beach Hotel in Troon offers a delightful alternative to larger resorts. Family-owned and proudly independent, this charming hotel is located just moments from the famous Royal Troon Golf Club and the shores of the Firth of Clyde.
Steeped in character, the South Beach Hotel combines the comfort of a well-loved country house with the convenience of a central Troon location. Each room is individually furnished, offering a cosy retreat after a day on the course, with many enjoying views across the garden or out towards the sea. Thoughtful touches and a warm, personal approach from the hosts ensure that guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.
Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast, freshly prepared and served in the light-filled dining room, a favourite with golfers preparing for their next round. In the evenings, unwind in the hotel’s inviting bar and lounge, where local ales, fine whiskies, and good conversation await.
Perfectly positioned for exploring the region’s wealth of golf courses, including Prestwick, Dundonald Links, Western Gailes, and Barassie, the South Beach Hotel is a relaxed and reliable base for golf tours and short breaks alike.
Beyond Golf: Exploring Ayrshire
While Ayrshire is a golfer’s paradise, there’s plenty to enjoy off the course. Explore the region’s rich history at Culzean Castle or Burns Cottage, the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Stroll along the sandy beaches or sample the local seafood at one of the many coastal restaurants. Ayrshire’s blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and world-class golf ensures there’s something for everyone.
Plan Your Ayrshire Golf Adventure
Whether you’re drawn by the allure of historic courses, the challenge of championship layouts, or the promise of luxury and relaxation, Ayrshire has it all. From Prestwick’s pioneering legacy to the modern marvels of Dundonald and Trump Turnberry, this region offers an unrivalled golfing experience. Combine that with exceptional accommodations like Marine Troon, Trump Turnberry and Dundonald Links, and it’s clear why Ayrshire is a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide.
Start planning your trip today and discover why Ayrshire is Scotland’s ultimate golfing paradise.
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