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Turnberry (golf course)

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Turnberry (golf course)
Turnberry (golf course)
source
NameTurnberry
CaptionThe Turnberry resort with the Ailsa Craig in the distance.
LocationSouth Ayrshire, Scotland
Establishment1906
TypeResort
OwnerThe Trump Organization
OperatorTrump Golf
Holes36
TournamentsThe Open Championship, Senior Open Championship, Women's British Open
Course1The Ailsa Course
Designer1Willie Fernie
Par170
Length17,474 yards
Course2The King Robert the Bruce Course
Designer2Donald Steel & Martin Ebert
Par270
Length27,203 yards

Turnberry (golf course) is a world-renowned golf resort situated on the Firth of Clyde coast in South Ayrshire, Scotland. Owned by The Trump Organization, its dramatic seaside links have hosted multiple editions of The Open Championship, producing some of the sport's most iconic moments. The resort is famed for its two championship courses, the legendary Ailsa Course and the redesigned King Robert the Bruce Course, alongside a luxury hotel and extensive amenities.

History

The land now occupied by Turnberry was originally part of the historic Earldom of Carrick and was requisitioned during the First World War for use as a Royal Flying Corps airfield. The golf course was formally established in 1906, with the original layout designed by Willie Fernie. The resort's iconic Turnberry Hotel, designed by James Miller, opened in 1906, establishing its status as a premier destination. After significant damage during the Second World War, when it served as RAF Turnberry, the course was meticulously restored by architect Mackenzie Ross in the post-war years, setting the stage for its major championship future.

The Ailsa Course

The Ailsa Course is Turnberry's celebrated championship layout, consistently ranked among the world's greatest golf courses. It is defined by its breathtaking coastal scenery, with several holes running alongside cliffs overlooking the Irish Sea and the distinctive granite island of Ailsa Craig. Key holes include the risk-reward par-4 9th and the famous par-3 15th, "Ca' Canny", but the course is best known for its dramatic closing stretch from the 16th tee. This "Duel in the Sun" stretch, named for the epic 1977 battle between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus, features the lighthouse-turned-clubhouse and provides a spectacular finish. The course has undergone several renovations by architects like Donald Steel, Martin Ebert, and Tom Mackenzie to maintain its championship caliber.

The King Robert the Bruce Course

Originally known as the Arran Course and later the Kintyre Course, this layout was comprehensively redesigned and renamed in 2017 to honor the Scottish king born nearby at Turnberry Castle. The redesign by architects Martin Ebert and Donald Steel integrated it more fully with the rugged dunesland, creating a true championship links test that complements the Ailsa Course. The course features undulating fairways, strategic bunkering, and several holes with impressive views of the Firth of Clyde and Arran. It has since hosted prestigious events including the Senior Open Championship, cementing its reputation as a formidable challenge.

Major Championships and Events

Turnberry's Ailsa Course has hosted The Open Championship on four occasions, in 1977, 1986, 1994, and 2009. The 1977 championship, won by Tom Watson over Jack Nicklaus, is immortalized as the "Duel in the Sun". The 2009 Open, memorable for Tom Watson's near-victory at age 59, was won by Stewart Cink in a playoff. The venue has also been a frequent host of the Senior Open Championship and the Women's British Open, won by legends like Gary Player, Tom Watson, and Karrie Webb. Its status as an Open Championship rota course was temporarily paused following its 2014 purchase by The Trump Organization.

Resort and Amenities

The Turnberry resort is a comprehensive luxury destination centered around the historic Turnberry Hotel, a Category A listed Edwardian building. Amenities include multiple dining options, a lavish spa, and extensive meeting facilities. Beyond golf, the estate offers outdoor pursuits such as falconry, shooting, and off-road driving. The resort's signature landmark is the converted Turnberry Lighthouse, which houses a private dining suite within the golf clubhouse. Managed by Trump Golf, the resort maintains a focus on high-end service and has been a venue for significant events, including the 2018 NATO summit.

Category:Golf courses in Scotland Category:The Open Championship venues Category:Resorts in Scotland Category:Sports venues in South Ayrshire