Phillips' mandate was to create a championship links course that would reflect the traditional character of seaside golf on Scotland's west coast; but one that would also benefit from the newest construction techniques.
The new links has already matured well, and is attracting plaudits from far and wide with many calling it one of the best in Ayrshire. A welcome addition to the already impressive repertoire on the west coast – Royal Troon is just 10 minutes down the road – Dundonald Links is a majestic links that thoroughly deserves its place inside the UK's top 100. Dundonald’s most recent coup came with hosting the 2017 Scottish Open which was won by Spain's Rafael Cabrera-Bello.
The Dundonald experience begins at the main gates where, like Loch Lomond, you’re greeted by security who in all likelihood know exactly who are. This treatment continues throughout and the “member for a day” experience certainly makes everything more enjoyable.
The course itself lies between the impressive trio of Kilmarnock Barassie, Glasgow Gailes and Western Gailes so it is clear that Dundonald lies on hallowed golfing turf and while in its formative years, drainage was a problem during the wetter months, no such problems exist today. This is pure, firm and fast links golf in its finest form.
The total yardage can range from 5,560 yards from the Reds to a challenging 7,100 yards from the Blacks. One thinks the course might be stretched further when the Scottish Open comes to town but nonetheless it can offer an enjoyable and testing challenge to a great array of golfers.
Signature Hole – No. 12: Par 4, 350 yards (Black Tees)
While some would suggest the par 3 11th at Dundonald is the course’s signature hole due its resemblance to the famous Postage Stamp at Royal Troon, it’s not quite the real deal. The short par 4 12th though, is a cracker.
Most players won’t need much more than a long iron for their drive here as placement, rather than power, is paramount due to the hog’s back fairway which will dispel all but the truest of tee shots. The fairway is at a subtle angle to the tee and once safely in play, the approach is played to a well guarded green that may seem closer than it really is due to some dramatic runoffs in front of the green.
With the Firth of Clyde and the distant Isle of Arran acting as the backdrop to this strategic and tricky little hole, this is an amazing spot on the course.
Course Information
| Par |
72 |
| Designed by |
Kyle Philips |
| Opened for play |
2005 |
Tees
| Black |
7,272 yards |
SSS 76 |
| Blue |
6,831 yards |
SSS 74 |
| White |
6,422 yards |
SSS 72.2 |
| Red |
5,527 yards |
SSS 72.9 |
Practice Facilities
Dundonald boasts all the necessary practice facilities to allow golfers to get their eye in before taking to the links. An exceptional 330 meter long driving range allows countless golfers to warm up every facet of their long game and with turf grass teeing areas, you'll find exactly what you'll experience out on the course. No astro-turf matts here.
A basket of golf balls may be purchased from the Professional Shop.
At The Clubhouse
Before heading out onto the links of indeed after your round, head to the clubhouse to relax in the comfort of the Spike Bar. Here you can watch other golfers toil their way up the final hole while enjoying breakfast, fresh baking and a great choice of hot and cold dishes, not to mention spectacular panoramic views of the Ayrshire coastline.
Tailored menus for groups of 12 or more can be arranged by prior arrangement.
