Western Gailes Golf Club

Overview

Members of golf clubs in Glasgow decided in 1897 to create a golf course on the Ayrshire coast away from the industrial fog of the city, and substantially free from the winter frost that would allow golf all year round. Hence was born Western Gailes.

The railway has been a very significant part of the club’s history. The train allowed the members from Glasgow easy access to the Ayrshire coast. A station was built at the club with it being the way most members travelled here until the 1950s. The last train left Gailes station on Hogmanay 1966. The railway remains a major feature of the course as you head back from the 14th homewards.

Of all the traditional Scottish links courses that run no more than two holes wide, Western Gailes is peculiar, in that its clubhouse is more or less in a central position. Finely contoured greens are cleverly positioned and set in the folds of the surrounding sand dunes, forcing the golfer to find the correct side of fairway in order to attack the pin with his approach. The chances are that you will be required to use every club in the bag.

“..one of my favourite golf courses. A true seaside course that tests every aspect of your game.” Bernard Gallacher