Turnberry - Ailsa Course

Overview

Imagine rolling hills, sandy dunes, a stiff breeze blowing off the Ayrshire coast. Before designer courses, before manicured greens and major championships, these lands inspired local Scots to play the game of golf.

Beloved since its first formal course was built in 1901, Turnberry's fairways have been shared by the game's elite and casual enthusiasts from around the globe. Even the conversion of its links to runways during two world wars could not diminish the desire to play here, With the sea by your side and that famous lighthouse in the distance, there are few courses in the world that can match Turnberry for beauty or excitement.

Long regarded as one of the finest courses in the world, the Ailsa came to international prominence with the famous duel between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson over the four days of the 1977 Open. In 2009, Watson came within inches of becoming the oldest major champion at fifty nine years of age, proving himself as the greatest links golfer of modern times. This highlighted Turnberry’s claim to be among the best of the links courses. Length is not everything. A true seaside course requires imagination, a golfer who can work the ball both ways and a deadly short game. Age is only a number on a wonderful course such as the Ailsa.