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Golf Breaks in Ayrshire

Trump Turnberry, Ailsa Course, Scotland

Why Book a Golf Break in Ayrshire

Experience Open Championship Host Golf Courses

Glasgow Nightlife combine with Fantasic Coastal Golf

Great Value Resort Golf

Stunning Courses on offer for an Ayrshire Golf Tour

The sandy turf that adorns the Ayrshire coastline is the basis for some of the purest links courses to be found anywhere in the UK and Ireland. The courses are not particularly complicated, simply utilising the astonishing natural terrain to produce golf from the top drawer, it is truly a golfing mecca.

Championship golf is guaranteed but the region is also the birthplace of Robert Burns and is steeped in history, with numerous castles and viking setllements to explore off the course.

THE AILSA COURSE REBORN: Day 1 at Turnberry with Mark Crossfield & Co + A Tom Watson Challenge

Golf Courses to include on your Golf Break Package in Ayrshire

The purest links at the best value, Ayrshire is a golfer's paradise boasting a collection of world-renowned links courses, many offering stay-and-play packages for the ultimate golfing experience. Among the most prestigious is the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry, a dramatic coastal masterpiece ranked 4th in Scotland and 14th globally. This iconic course, just 90 minutes from Glasgow, has hosted The Open Championship four times, including the legendary 1977 "Duel in the Sun" between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson. Trump Turnberry offers luxurious accommodations and golf breaks, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this exceptional venue.

Just a short drive away, you'll find Royal Troon Golf Club, another gem on the Ayrshire coast. Ranked 12th in Scotland, this historic club, founded in 1878, has hosted The Open Championship nine times and is home to the infamous "Postage Stamp" 8th hole. Royal Troon's rich heritage and challenging layout make it a must-play for any serious golfer. Nearby, Dundonald Links, a Kyle Phillips-designed course that has hosted both the Scottish and Ladies Scottish Opens, provides another fantastic option for a stay-and-play golf trip.

Beyond these championship venues, Ayrshire offers a wealth of other exceptional courses. Prestwick, the birthplace of The Open Championship, provides a unique and historic golfing experience. Western Gailes, with its narrow fairways and challenging layout, is another highly regarded option. And for those looking to explore even further, the Ayr Coast boasts a collection of other fine courses, including Gailes Links, Kilmarnock Barassie, Irvine, Prestwick St Nicholas, Troon Darley, Belleisle and Lochgreen, each offering its own distinct character and charm. A golf trip to Ayrshire promises an unforgettable experience, combining world-class golf with stunning scenery and warm Scottish hospitality.

Our guide to playing the best golf courses around Ayrshire.

Where to stay on your Golf Break in Ayrshire

Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful golf trip, and Ayrshire offers a fantastic range of options to suit every taste and budget. For those seeking luxury and unparalleled views, the five-star Trump Turnberry Resort is a must. Nestled within an 880-acre estate, this award-winning hotel provides breathtaking vistas of the Irish Sea, offering an unforgettable experience both on and off the course. From world-class golf to exquisite dining, Turnberry promises an indulgent escape.

If a central location and a vibrant atmosphere are priorities, the Mercure Ayr Hotel is an excellent choice. Situated in the heart of Ayrshire, guests can easily explore the local area, with a wide array of bars and restaurants just steps away. The hotel also boasts impressive views of the Mull of Kintyre and the Arran mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to your stay. Plus, with a swimming pool, bath spa, gym, sauna, and steam room, relaxation is guaranteed after a challenging round of golf.

For golfers looking to stay close to the action, The Marine Hotel in Troon offers stunning views across the Firth of Clyde and overlooks the prestigious Royal Troon Golf Club. This four-star hotel combines a prime location with modern leisure and fitness facilities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. And if you're planning on exploring further afield, its proximity to both Glasgow and Ayr makes it a great base.

Larger groups or those seeking a more self-catered experience might consider the lodges at Dundonald Links in Troon. These two, four, and six-bedroom lodges offer ample space and privacy, perfect for sharing with friends, and the outdoor patio area with BBQ is ideal for post-round gatherings. Other options include The Gailes Hotel in Irvine, known for its locally sourced cuisine and proximity to numerous quality courses, and the Carlton Hotel in Prestwick, a convenient choice for those flying into Glasgow Prestwick International Airport.

Things to do in Ayrshire off the course

Bar

Nightlife

Relaxing by a warm fire in a cosy Scottish pub may be required after a day on the links!

  • The Tam O'Shanter Inn, Ayr (Pub)
  • MacIntyres, Troon (Pub)
  • Smiths Bar, Ayr (Sports Bar)
  • Drouthy Neebors, Ayr (Live Music Pub)
  • Furys, Ayr (Nightclub)
  • The Twa Dugs, Ayr (Whisky Bar)
Restaurant

Restaurants

Ayrshire has a good reputation for homegrown produce and hearty portions of traditional Scottish food.

  • @ Home, Ayr (Thai)
  • Canny Crow at Dundonald (Fine Dining)
  • Piersland House, Troon (Local Cuisine)
  • Macfarlane, Ayr (Local Cuisine)
  • 1906, Turnberry (Fine Dining, Local Cuisine)
  • 3 Idiots, Ayr (Indian)
  • Saffy's, Ayr (Brasserie)
Topgolf

Activities

The Ayrshire coast may have some of the best golf courses in Scotland, but off the course you are not short of options either

  • Scottish Maritime Museum (Local History)
  • Dundonald Castle (Local History)
  • Isle of Arran (Scenic Coastline)
  • A. D. Rattray Whisky Experience (Tour)
  • Culzean Castle and Country Park (Local History)
  • Robert Burns Birthplace Museum (Local History)

Expert Guidance on Golf Breaks in Ayrshire

Matthew Allen - Golf Travel Team Manager

Matthew Allen

I would encourage anyone who hasn’t visited Scotland for a golf trip to come up and experience a unique part of the golfing world. There is no better place with packages and tours to fit all abilities and budgets.

Give Matthew a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break to Scotland.

Frequently asked questions about Golf Breaks in Ayrshire

What are the best golf courses to play in Ayrshire?

Ayrshire features world-famous courses including Royal Troon (Open Championship venue), Prestwick (the original Open venue), the courses at Trump Turnberry, Western Gailes, Dundonald Links, and Irvine Golf Club.

What kinds of accommodation are available for golf breaks in Ayrshire?

Accommodation options range from 5-star golf resorts (like Trump Turnberry), to boutique hotels, country inns, coastal lodges, and self-catering cottages.

When is the best time to take a golf break in Ayrshire?

April to October is ideal, with the summer months offering the longest daylight hours. Early autumn can also be a beautiful and slightly quieter time to visit.

What can non-golfers do in Ayrshire?

There’s plenty to enjoy: visit Culzean Castle, walk coastal paths, explore Burns Country (birthplace of poet Robert Burns), or relax in a resort spa.

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