The Ailsa Course

at Trump Turnberry, Scotland

Location: Ayrshire, Scotland | Length: 7,448 yards | Par: 71 | Designer: Willie Fernie (original), Mackenzie Ross & Martin Ebert (redesigns) | Founded: 1901

Ranked 12th best golf course in the world, the Ailsa Course at Trump Turnberry is a true icon of Scottish golf. Set along the dramatic Ayrshire coastline overlooking the Firth of Clyde, this legendary layout blends rich championship heritage with breathtaking natural beauty.

Originally designed by Willie Fernie and later refined by Mackenzie Ross, the course underwent a transformative modern redesign by Martin Ebert in 2016, elevating it to new heights while preserving its historic character.

The Ailsa’s routing delivers an unforgettable golfing journey, particularly along its spectacular coastal stretch where holes cling to rugged cliffs beside the Irish Sea. Panoramic views of Ailsa Craig, the Isle of Arran, and the famous Turnberry Lighthouse create one of the most visually striking settings in golf.

Strategically, the course is a masterclass in links design - demanding imagination, precision, and adaptability to ever-changing coastal winds. Its legacy is equally compelling, having hosted four Open Championships, including the legendary 1977 “Duel in the Sun” between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, cementing its place in golfing folklore.

Course highlights

• Open Championship pedigree – Four-time host venue (1977, 1986, 1994, 2009) with some of golf’s most historic moments
• World-renowned redesign – Martin Ebert’s 2016 renovation introduced dramatic new coastal holes and enhanced playability
• Iconic scenery – Uninterrupted views of Ailsa Craig, Arran, and the rugged Ayrshire coastline
• Legendary closing stretch – One of the most memorable finishing sequences in golf, culminating in the famed 18th
• Pure links challenge – Firm fairways, deep bunkering, and coastal winds demand creativity and control

Signature Holes

The par-3 9th hole, “Bruce’s Castle,” is one of the most celebrated holes in world golf. Playing from an elevated tee towards a green set beside the historic Turnberry Lighthouse and the ruins of Robert the Bruce’s castle, it offers a dramatic carry over rocky shoreline. With swirling winds and a visually intimidating setting, it perfectly captures the essence of the Ailsa—historic, scenic, and uncompromising.

Clubhouse & amenities

Trump Turnberry provides a five-star resort experience that complements the championship golf:

• Elegant clubhouse and luxury hotel overlooking the course
• Multiple fine dining options showcasing Scottish and international cuisine
• Extensive practice facilities including driving range and short game areas
• Full-service spa and wellness centre for relaxation and recovery

Post Round

After your round, unwind in the resort’s refined surroundings - whether enjoying a meal with coastal views, relaxing in the spa, or taking a drink on the terrace overlooking the closing holes. The setting offers a fitting end to a round on one of golf’s greatest stages.

Did You Know?

The 18th hole was renamed ‘Duel in the Sun’ after the epic 1977 Open Championship and Watson’s epic battle with Nicklaus. Incidentally, this was Watson’s second of five Claret Jugs and three months earlier he had also held off Nicklaus to win his first Green Jacket at Augusta.