Golf courses in Ayrshire

Ayrshire is hallowed ground for golf. Prestwick Golf Club hosted the first Open Championship in 1860, where Young Tom Morris began his legendary career. The region's links courses along the Firth of Clyde have shaped the game's history for over 150 years.

Trump Turnberry's Ailsa Course, with its iconic lighthouse at the 9th hole, has hosted four Open Championships including the famous "Duel in the Sun" between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977. Western Gailes, Royal Troon (just across the border), and Prestwick form part of a golden stretch of championship links that rivals anywhere in the world.

The Ayrshire coast offers classic links terrain shaped by centuries of sea winds - undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and thick rough that punishes wayward shots. The climate is mild for Scotland, with the Gulf Stream moderating temperatures. May through October provides the best playing window, though the links are playable year-round for those who embrace the elements.