Ayrshire & the Western Islands
The west coast of Scotland, Ayrshire is famous for its legendary golf links such as Prestwick, Turnberry & Royal Troon. However there are many more to be discovered. Just 45 min from Glasgow Airport its the perfect destination for a quick trip or an extended visit.
Ayrshire
Royal Troon and Turnberry are both current Open Championship courses with the later having held some of the most memorable championships in history with Tom Watson featuring strongly in Opens 33 years apart.
The region has a strong link with Old Tom Morris, the first 'keeper of the greens' and designer of Prestwick 'Old Course'. He would also help setup the Prestwick Mechanics Club that would later become Prestwick 'St Nicholas'. Western Gailes is a superb links with an interesting configuration, out & back but with the club house being located in the middle.
Dundonald Links is a modern designed by Kylie Phillips which opened for play in 2003. Dundonald has since hosted the Scottish Open in 2017. The Irvine Golf Club & Kilmarnock 'Barassie' Links are both wonderful links courses that add great value to any golf trip. A little bit to the north are links of West Kilbride Golf Club and the parkland course of Largs Golf Club.
As well Irvine as Troon offer various forms of good accommodation. But the town of Prestwick is the centre of activity in the area with numerous pubs and restaurants to be found. For the history buffs is a visit to the Red Lion a must, Prestwick's first club house back in 1851.
Kintyre Peninsular
Further west from Ayrshire is the Kintyre Peninsular which was made famous by the 'Wings' song by Paul McCartney, 'Mull of Kintyre'. Kintyre has several very good courses including the natural links of Machrihanish Golf Club, designed by Old Tom Morris in 1879. Machrihanish Dunes which was build more recently by the Scottish architect David McLay Kidd.
Machrihanish Dunes has two wonderful hotels, the Royal Hotel in the town of Campbeltown close to the Springbank distillery . And the luxurious Ugadale Hotel and pub in the village off Machrihanish. On the southern tip of Kintyre is the hidden gem of Dunverty, although not long by modern standards, it is jam packed with quirky charm!
The Islands
Getting away from the mainland are the islands of Islay & Jura which are famous for their malt whisky. On Islay the recently renovated Machrie Hotel & Golf Club is a fabulous place to get any format all. Jura has a new golf course build by an Australian billionaire called Ardfin Estate. Ardfin has limited accommodation at the very high end of the market!
Regions of Scotland
Golf in Ayrshire
Course Profiles
Royal Troon Golf Club
Royal Troon Golf Club was founded in 1878 with only 5 holes. A 140 years later it has 45 holes and has hosted the Open Championship a total of 9 times. Its most famous hole is the Postage Stamp 8th hole which measures just a 111 meters but can devilishly difficult green to hit especially on a windy day. (see photo)Trump Turnberry Resort
The Ailsa course at Turnberry is one of Scotlands famous links courses and has recently been renovated by Martin Ebert. An already wonderful course has been made even better. Most famous for the legendary 1977 Open Championship "The Duel in The Sun" between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson with the later wining narrowly. Unbelievably 32 years later Tom Watson lost in a playoff for the Open Championship against Stewart Cink in 2009 at the age of 59.Prestwick Golf Club
Prestwick is the birth place to the Open championship which was first played over the links in 1860 and there after 24 times with the last being held in 1925 due to logistical issues. Famous for its association with Old Tom Morris who designed the original course in 1851 and was the 'Keeper of the green' until 1864. By 1882 18 holes had become the standard and the course was extended by then professional Charles Hunter. Not only is the club full of history but a wonderful example of links that is not to be missed.Western Gails Golf Club
Western Gails is a classic Scottish links with the course routed between the sea and the railway that runs along the coast with clubhouse in the middle. North of the clubhouse are 7 holes and 11 holes to the south. The 178 meter par 3, 7th is particularly memorable. (See photo)Glasgow Gailes Links
Gailes has hosted major championship tournaments through the years and was designed by legendary golf architect Willie Park Jnr of Musselburgh. It was opened in 1892 by Glasgow Golf Club, the 9th oldest golf club in the world. Its West Coast setting and fabulous condition makes it ideal for summer and winter golf in Scotland. It is a world class links course which attracts players from every corner of the globe.Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club
Kilmarnock is situated on the Ayrshire coast not far from the famous links of Turnberry, Prestwick and Royal Troon. A very welcoming club with a fine links course which has been used for final qualifying for the Open Championship. Not to be missed when your in the area.Machrihanish Dunes
Machrihanish Dunes is modern classic designed by David McLay Kidd of Bandon Dunes fame. The links was built in a "Site of Special Scientific Interest" (SSSI) with only the greens and tees being shaped and the fairways were mown down to the required height for play but still retained all the original humps and hollows. This ensures that the links has a wonderful natural feeling of how golf has been played over the centuries.Dunaverty Golf Club
Dunaverty Golf Club is situated by the village of Southend in a glorious setting on the south coast of the Kintyre peninsula. The springy turf on the undulating fairways and one of the best sets of greens in Scotland provide a great test for all levels of golfers. A spectacular view over Sanda Island to the south, Ailsa Craig and Ayrshire to the east and Northern Ireland to the south west will only add to a wonderful test of golf.Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club
About as quirky as golf can get the 12 holes Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club offers an unique experience to say the least. On the western side of Arran the links features several blind shots and at one point you plan up a step ridge to a hole called the Crows Nest! For golfers who like there golf to be fun this is your place.-
Royal Troon Golf Club
Royal Troon Golf Club was founded in 1878 with only 5 holes. A 140 years later it has 45 holes and has hosted the Open Championship a total of 9 times. Its most famous hole is the Postage Stamp 8th hole which measures just a 111 meters but can devilishly difficult green to hit especially on a windy day. (see photo) -
Trump Turnberry Resort
The Ailsa course at Turnberry is one of Scotlands famous links courses and has recently been renovated by Martin Ebert. An already wonderful course has been made even better. Most famous for the legendary 1977 Open Championship "The Duel in The Sun" between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson with the later wining narrowly. Unbelievably 32 years later Tom Watson lost in a playoff for the Open Championship against Stewart Cink in 2009 at the age of 59. -
Prestwick Golf Club
Prestwick is the birth place to the Open championship which was first played over the links in 1860 and there after 24 times with the last being held in 1925 due to logistical issues. Famous for its association with Old Tom Morris who designed the original course in 1851 and was the 'Keeper of the green' until 1864. By 1882 18 holes had become the standard and the course was extended by then professional Charles Hunter. Not only is the club full of history but a wonderful example of links that is not to be missed. -
Western Gails Golf Club
Western Gails is a classic Scottish links with the course routed between the sea and the railway that runs along the coast with clubhouse in the middle. North of the clubhouse are 7 holes and 11 holes to the south. The 178 meter par 3, 7th is particularly memorable. (See photo) -
Dundonald Links
A modern classic links designed Kyle Phillips of Kingsbarns fame. Dundonald held the 2017 Scottish Open to critical acclaim. Certainly one of Aryshires best courses. -
Glasgow Gailes Links
Gailes has hosted major championship tournaments through the years and was designed by legendary golf architect Willie Park Jnr of Musselburgh. It was opened in 1892 by Glasgow Golf Club, the 9th oldest golf club in the world. Its West Coast setting and fabulous condition makes it ideal for summer and winter golf in Scotland. It is a world class links course which attracts players from every corner of the globe. -
Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club
Kilmarnock is situated on the Ayrshire coast not far from the famous links of Turnberry, Prestwick and Royal Troon. A very welcoming club with a fine links course which has been used for final qualifying for the Open Championship. Not to be missed when your in the area. -
Machrihanish Dunes
Machrihanish Dunes is modern classic designed by David McLay Kidd of Bandon Dunes fame. The links was built in a "Site of Special Scientific Interest" (SSSI) with only the greens and tees being shaped and the fairways were mown down to the required height for play but still retained all the original humps and hollows. This ensures that the links has a wonderful natural feeling of how golf has been played over the centuries. -
Machrihanish Golf Club
Famous for its daunting tee shot over the beach on the 1st hole Machrihanish has great pedigree having had Old Tom Morris influence the design. Recently rated in the top 100 best golf courses in the world this is one links not to be missed. -
The Irvine Golf Club
The Irvine Golf Club flies under the radar but is one of Ayrshires finest links courses. The course as it is today is much to thank on James Braid who designed a very distinctive links that has been used many times as a Open Championship qualifying course. -
West Kilbride Golf Club
West Kilbride Golf Club occupies a narrow piece of land coastal land with great views across the Firth of Clyde to the beautiful island of Arran. A great course to play all year round with influence of the Gulf Stream. -
Dunaverty Golf Club
Dunaverty Golf Club is situated by the village of Southend in a glorious setting on the south coast of the Kintyre peninsula. The springy turf on the undulating fairways and one of the best sets of greens in Scotland provide a great test for all levels of golfers. A spectacular view over Sanda Island to the south, Ailsa Craig and Ayrshire to the east and Northern Ireland to the south west will only add to a wonderful test of golf. -
The Machrie Golf Club
The Machrie is set in the sand dunes of the island of Islay and was designed in 1891 by Willie Campbell. The links has a new owner and has been undergoing a major rebuild and promises to be an improved version of what was already a very good course. -
Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club
About as quirky as golf can get the 12 holes Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club offers an unique experience to say the least. On the western side of Arran the links features several blind shots and at one point you plan up a step ridge to a hole called the Crows Nest! For golfers who like there golf to be fun this is your place.
Accommodation Western Scotland
The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links
Set in the dunes of Islay, Queen of the Hebrides, The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links enjoys an enviable location, nestled beside seven miles of pristine beach in the Inner Hebrides. Opened in late Summer 2018 after a complete renovation and expansion, The Machrie Hotel features 47 beautifully designed rooms, suites and lodges, some with their own outdoor terraces and stunning views across the Links. The hotel offers guests the perfect place to meet and relax including, 18, our impressive restaurant with panoramic views of the Links and PureGray, our spa.Piersland House
Piersland House has been providing its renowned warm hospitality and delivering excellent customer service, both locally and internationally, for over 30 years This architectural masterpiece, the former home of the Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky family, is now the scene for one of Ayrshire’s truly outstanding guest experiences. An engaging, timeless ambience of quiet sophistication, elegance and charm will strike you as soon as you enter. Share an exceptional food and beverage experience with a large following of local discerning dinersThe Marine Hotel
Located on the beautiful South Ayrshire coastline with bespoke views over the Royal Troon Golf club, our stunning 4 star hotel has everything you need for a relaxing getaway. The Marine Hotel promises to deliver both an elegant and comfortable experience for all guests through our vast selection of luxury bedrooms, some of which offer breath-taking views over the isle of Arran.Old Loans Inn
This popular country pub and restaurant in the village of Loans on the outskirts of Troon was transformed into a stunning 20-bedroom boutique hotel with some of the finest bedrooms in Ayrshire and is popular with families, golfers, walkers, leisure and business guests. The four-star SimpsInns property started out as traditional 18th century Coaching Inn before being transformed into a modern, luxurious hotel with an excellent restaurant and bar and menu choices to suit every taste.South Beach Hotel
The South Beach Hotel is a family-owned hotel based in Troon, South Ayrshire. Whether you’re visiting for work, pleasure or a round of golf on one of the best courses in Scotland, we offer you a warm welcome and relaxing home from home during your stay in Troon. Our 32 en-suite bedrooms have their own traditional style, with many offering spectacular sea views or patio doors into our gardens. We offer a range of single, double, twin or wheelchair accessible rooms to suit your requirements.Fairfield House Hotel
When it comes to luxury hotels in Scotland, you would have to travel a long way to beat the 4-star Fairfield House Hotel in Ayr. The Fairfield House Hotel basks in a picturesque seafront location on the Ayrshire coast in the heart of Robert Burns country with spectacular views across the waters of the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran. Sumptuously furnished and appointed, Fairfield House Hotel offers the luxurious yet comfortable hospitality of the traditional Scottish country house, combined with every possible modern facility.Royal Hotel, Campbeltown
The Royal Hotel in downtown Campbeltown overlooks picturesque Campbeltown Harbour and is the perfect option for those who prefer to be “in town”. The beautifully restored hotel features 23 guest rooms with all of the modern comforts one might expect in the world’s top hotels. Here you’ll find a second fine-dining restaurant, The Harbourview Grille along with the cheerful and lively Black Sheep Pub just steps from the Harbour. For your convenience, shuttle service is provided between all of our hotels, restaurants, and amenities for Village guests.Ugadale Hotel & Lodge Machrihanish
The historic Ugadale Hotel is located just steps from the ocean and the 1st tee at Machrihanish Golf Club. The Ugadale Hotel features twenty-two spectacular guest rooms and suites, the Serenity Spa (view packages), and the Kintyre Club a warm and inviting restaurant and bar in a private club setting offering inspired dining and spirited good times. The Ugadale Hotel is surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, with the grandeur of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of the southern Hebrides right at your doorstep.-
The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links
Set in the dunes of Islay, Queen of the Hebrides, The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links enjoys an enviable location, nestled beside seven miles of pristine beach in the Inner Hebrides. Opened in late Summer 2018 after a complete renovation and expansion, The Machrie Hotel features 47 beautifully designed rooms, suites and lodges, some with their own outdoor terraces and stunning views across the Links. The hotel offers guests the perfect place to meet and relax including, 18, our impressive restaurant with panoramic views of the Links and PureGray, our spa. -
Piersland House
Piersland House has been providing its renowned warm hospitality and delivering excellent customer service, both locally and internationally, for over 30 years This architectural masterpiece, the former home of the Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky family, is now the scene for one of Ayrshire’s truly outstanding guest experiences. An engaging, timeless ambience of quiet sophistication, elegance and charm will strike you as soon as you enter. Share an exceptional food and beverage experience with a large following of local discerning diners -
The Marine Hotel
Located on the beautiful South Ayrshire coastline with bespoke views over the Royal Troon Golf club, our stunning 4 star hotel has everything you need for a relaxing getaway. The Marine Hotel promises to deliver both an elegant and comfortable experience for all guests through our vast selection of luxury bedrooms, some of which offer breath-taking views over the isle of Arran. -
Old Loans Inn
This popular country pub and restaurant in the village of Loans on the outskirts of Troon was transformed into a stunning 20-bedroom boutique hotel with some of the finest bedrooms in Ayrshire and is popular with families, golfers, walkers, leisure and business guests. The four-star SimpsInns property started out as traditional 18th century Coaching Inn before being transformed into a modern, luxurious hotel with an excellent restaurant and bar and menu choices to suit every taste. -
South Beach Hotel
The South Beach Hotel is a family-owned hotel based in Troon, South Ayrshire. Whether you’re visiting for work, pleasure or a round of golf on one of the best courses in Scotland, we offer you a warm welcome and relaxing home from home during your stay in Troon. Our 32 en-suite bedrooms have their own traditional style, with many offering spectacular sea views or patio doors into our gardens. We offer a range of single, double, twin or wheelchair accessible rooms to suit your requirements. -
Fairfield House Hotel
When it comes to luxury hotels in Scotland, you would have to travel a long way to beat the 4-star Fairfield House Hotel in Ayr. The Fairfield House Hotel basks in a picturesque seafront location on the Ayrshire coast in the heart of Robert Burns country with spectacular views across the waters of the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran. Sumptuously furnished and appointed, Fairfield House Hotel offers the luxurious yet comfortable hospitality of the traditional Scottish country house, combined with every possible modern facility. -
Royal Hotel, Campbeltown
The Royal Hotel in downtown Campbeltown overlooks picturesque Campbeltown Harbour and is the perfect option for those who prefer to be “in town”. The beautifully restored hotel features 23 guest rooms with all of the modern comforts one might expect in the world’s top hotels. Here you’ll find a second fine-dining restaurant, The Harbourview Grille along with the cheerful and lively Black Sheep Pub just steps from the Harbour. For your convenience, shuttle service is provided between all of our hotels, restaurants, and amenities for Village guests. -
Ugadale Hotel & Lodge Machrihanish
The historic Ugadale Hotel is located just steps from the ocean and the 1st tee at Machrihanish Golf Club. The Ugadale Hotel features twenty-two spectacular guest rooms and suites, the Serenity Spa (view packages), and the Kintyre Club a warm and inviting restaurant and bar in a private club setting offering inspired dining and spirited good times. The Ugadale Hotel is surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty, with the grandeur of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of the southern Hebrides right at your doorstep.