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Turnberry Ailsa Course golf course in Ayrshire - links with A dramatic clifftop links course with breathtaking views of Ailsa Craig and the ...
Championship Course

Turnberry Ailsa Course

Turnberry, Ayrshire

linksAyrshireChampionshipFrom £295
About This Course

A dramatic clifftop links course with breathtaking views of Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran. Turnberry has hosted four Open Championships and recently underwent a multi-million pound restoration.

History & Heritage

The Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry opened in 1946 on the site of a World War II airfield. Mackenzie Ross designed the new course, routing it spectacularly along the Ayrshire coastline. The course has hosted four memorable Open Championships (1977, 1986, 1994, 2009), including the legendary "Duel in the Sun" between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977. The lighthouse, dating from 1873, is one of golf's most iconic landmarks. A significant restoration in 2016 returned the course to championship standards, with several holes rebuilt closer to the dramatic coastline.

Architect

Mackenzie Ross

Established

1946

Notable Events
Major tournaments and championships hosted at this course
  • four Open Championships and recently underwent a multi-million pound restoration
Signature Holes

The 9th hole, "Bruce's Castle," plays around the ruins to a clifftop green with the lighthouse as backdrop - one of golf's most photographed holes. The 10th plays directly toward the lighthouse and Ailsa Craig. The 16th "Wee Burn" is a risk-reward short par 4. The closing hole provides a stern finishing test with the iconic hotel overlooking the green. The completely rebuilt 11th through 13th stretch now plays dramatically along the rocky shoreline.

Best Time to Visit
Optimal playing conditions and seasonal information

Recommended Months

JanuaryDecember

Course Conditions

Championship conditions year-round with pristine maintenance. Fairways are generous but rough is penal. Greens are fast and true. Coastal exposure means wind-affected lies are common. The new seaside holes can be wet after rain. Summer offers the most reliable weather, though wind is constant. Early morning rounds offer spectacular light.

Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Turnberry Ailsa Course
What type of golf course is Turnberry Ailsa Course?

Turnberry Ailsa Course is a links located in Ayrshire. A dramatic clifftop links course with breathtaking views of Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran. Turnberry has hosted four Open Championships and recent...

Where is Turnberry Ailsa Course located?

Turnberry Ailsa Course is located in Turnberry, Ayrshire. It's situated in the Ayrshire region of Scotland.

What is the history of Turnberry Ailsa Course?

The Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry opened in 1946 on the site of a World War II airfield. Mackenzie Ross designed the new course, routing it spectacularly along the Ayrshire coastline. The course has...

What are the course specifications at Turnberry Ailsa Course?

Turnberry Ailsa Course is a par 70 course measuring 6,811 yards. The course has a difficulty rating of 5.0/5.0.

How can I book a tee time at Turnberry Ailsa Course?

To book a tee time at Turnberry Ailsa Course, visit their official website at https://www.trumphotels.com/turnberry or contact the course directly at +44 1655 331000. You can also reach them via email at reservations@trumpturnberry.com.

What is the best time to visit Turnberry Ailsa Course?

The best time to visit Turnberry Ailsa Course is during January, December. Championship conditions year-round with pristine maintenance. Fairways are generous but rough is penal. Greens are fast and true. Coastal exposure means wind-affected lies are common. The new seaside holes can be wet after rain. Summer offers the most reliable weather, though wind is constant. Early morning rounds offer spectacular light.

What are the signature holes at Turnberry Ailsa Course?

The 9th hole, "Bruce's Castle," plays around the ruins to a clifftop green with the lighthouse as backdrop - one of golf's most photographed holes. The 10th plays directly toward the lighthouse and Ai...

Course Statistics

Par

70

Length

6,811

yards

Difficulty Rating

5.0/5.0

Facilities & Amenities
Available services and amenities at this course
Hole-by-Hole Guide
Detailed breakdown of each hole

Hole 4

Par 4167 yardsSI 9

Plays along the rocky coastline toward the lighthouse. Wind can make club selection difficult.

Hole 9

"Bruce's Castle"
Par 3455 yardsSI 11

The signature hole plays around the ruins of Bruce's Castle to a clifftop green with the lighthouse backdrop. One of golf's most photographed holes.

Hole 10

Par 4452 yardsSI 15

Plays toward the lighthouse and Ailsa Craig. The approach must carry a deep hollow.

Hole 11

Par 4174 yardsSI 13

After the 2016 renovation, this hole plays dramatically along the rocky shoreline at sea level.

Hole 16

"Wee Burn"
Par 4409 yardsSI 7

A risk-reward short par 4. Long hitters can drive the green but must carry bunkers and the burn.

Green Fees
Pricing information for visitors

peak Season

Any day

April-October. Includes practice facilities. Hotel guests receive priority booking.

£395

low Season

Any day

November-March. Still premium pricing due to luxury resort status.

£295

year round Season

Any day

Stay & Play packages available - often better value than green fee only.

£595

Location

Turnberry, Ayrshire

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