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Trump Turnberry (Open Championship Venue)

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Trump Turnberry (Open Championship Venue)

Golf at Turnberry began in 1901 when the Marquess of Ailsa commissioned Open Champion Willie Fernie to design a course on the Ayrshire coastline. Both World Wars had a major impact on the land, with the property being used as an airfield. In 1951 Philip Mackenzie Ross rebuilt the links course and gave the name Ailsa to the new links layout. Donald trump brought the property in 2014 investing £200 million in the hotel and course.

Measuring 7501 yards, this championship course has stunning views of the Ayrshire coastline and Ailsa Craig. The Ailsa Course is known for its rugged coastal scenery and challenging, strategic design. Golfers face a range of obstacles, including powerful coastal winds, steep elevation changes, and greens shielded by deep bunkers. Several holes play close to the rocky shoreline and most notably around the famous lighthouse.

The Ailsa is currently ranked 3rd in Scotland by Top 100 Golf Courses and 8th in the world by Golf Digest. It has hosted The Open Championship four times, with Tom Watson defeating Jack Nicklaus in the famous 1977 “Duel in the Sun”.

Useful Information

  • No handicap certificate is required to play the Ailsa Course, although it is a demanding championship links and golfers should have a proficient level of play
  • The Ailsa Course is open to both hotel residents and non-resident visitors aged 16 and over, subject to availability and advance booking
  • Traditional golf clothing is required. Collared shirts, tailored trousers or shorts and appropriate golf shoes should be worn. Jeans and collarless shirts are not permitted on the courses
  • Caddies are available and must be booked in advance
  • TaylorMade hire clubs and electric trolleys are available and advance reservation is recommended
  • Buggies on the Ailsa Course are available only to golfers with a valid medical certificate and must be driven by a caddie


Click here to contact us for information on golf packages including a round of golf at Trump Turnberry (Open Championship Venue).

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