Golf 2012
Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Golf in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran Ayrshire is the birthplace of the Open Championship, this golf loving region boasting such famous courses as Royal Troon and Turnberry. Meanwhile the nearby Isle of Arran, with seven courses to choose from, is ideal for a few rounds of holiday golf.
01 Disclaimer VisitScotland has published this guide in good faith to reflect information submitted to it by the proprietors/managers of the businesses listed who have paid for or approved their entries to be included. Although VisitScotland has taken reasonable steps to confirm the information contained in this guide at the time of going to press, it cannot guarantee that the information published is and remains accurate. Accordingly, VisitScotland recommends that all information is checked with the proprietor/manager of the business prior to visiting/booking to ensure that the accommodation, facilities, price and all other aspects of the business are satisfactory. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation contained in the guide and excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the information contained in this guide. VisitScotland also cannot accept any liability for loss caused by the bankruptcy, or liquidation, or insolvency, or cessation of trade of any company, firm or individual contained in this guide. Quality Assurance awards are correct as at November 2011.
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Contents
www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Classic links venues and quirky island courses Great value golf in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran Travel tips Golf course profiles Ayrshire golf courses Arran and Cumbrae golf courses Local golf driving ranges VisitScotland Information Centres Area map and course index Quality Assurance Golfers’ accommodation Away from the fairways What’s on
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Cover Turnberry Ailsa, one of the finest golf courses in the world. 01 Spectacular Corrie Golf Course, Isle of Arran. 02 The Old Course, Royal Troon Golf Club. 03 Rowallan Castle at Kilmaurs, Ayrshire. Credits Photography: Paul Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint, Paul Dodds (front cover) and Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran golf courses. Design: APS Group | www.apsgroup.co.uk, Stand | www.stand-united.co.uk and THK Design | www.thkdesign.com This brochure is printed on recycled content paper. VisitScotland is committed to ensuring that our environment, upon which our tourism is so dependent, is safe guarded for future generations to enjoy.
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Classic links venues and quirky island courses
01
Ayrshire is where the Open Championship was born, the first shots of the inaugural tournament played by ‘Old’ Tom Morris and Willie Park at Prestwick in 1860. Though no longer on the Open rota, Prestwick has still hosted golf’s most famous competition an incredible 24 times.
02
The Open has been played at Turnberry a total of four times, the revered Ailsa course providing the setting for the famous Duel in the Sun between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson in 1977. Royal Troon has hosted the Open on eight occasions. In 1962, the legendary Arnold Palmer produced some of the finest golf of his career to become Open champion for a second time. Incredibly, these three illustrious venues – Royal Troon, Turnberry and Prestwick – lie within half an hour of each other on the Ayrshire coast. You don’t have to go far to find golfing greatness in this part of the world. Several other courses in Ayrshire are used as Open Championship Final Qualifying venues. Kilmarnock Barassie on the edge of Troon is a testing links course, while Irvine Bogside was created by the legendary James Braid who designed Turnberry.
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
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01 One of Scotland’s best, Dundonald Links. 02 Millport Golf Course, Isle of Cumbrae. father. Brunston Castle is a lengthy parkland course in one of the most scenic areas in Ayrshire while Prestwick St Cuthbert is notable for its number of dogleg holes. Just under an hour from the Ayrshire coast by ferry is the Isle of Arran, one of Scotland’s most magical and best-loved islands. Often called ‘Scotland in Miniature’ due to its mountainous north and gentler south, the island has no less than seven golf courses.
Steeped in history, Prestwick St Nicholas enjoys a wonderful coastal setting. Meanwhile Dundonald Links has been heralded as one of the finest new links courses in the world. Glasgow Gailes is an outstanding course accustomed to hosting leading tournaments. Indeed Sandy Lyle, the former Open and Masters champion, has described Glasgow Gailes as ‘one of the world’s truly great tests of links golf’. Western Gailes is another classic links course in Ayrshire and is used for final qualifying when the Open is played at Turnberry or Troon.
Shiskine on the west of Arran is that rarest of things – a 12-hole golf course. The views from the course across Kilbrannan Sound to the Kintyre Peninsula beyond are simply superb and some of Shiskine’s holes have to be seen to be believed. You are unlikely to forget attempting to conquer the Crow’s Nest before playing off The Shelf. Whiting Bay is another fine Arran course with a good view of the Holy Isle and the course at Corrie is both beautiful and challenging. If you really want to get to grips with Arran’s golf courses, the Arran Golf Pass lets you play the island’s seven courses while making a great saving on green fees.
Ayrshire’s latest golfing attraction is the stunning Rowallan Castle course created by Colin Montgomerie. The Ryder Cup legend’s first design in the UK has already been hailed as a masterpiece.
Another good possibility for island golf is the Isle of Cumbrae, a short ferry journey from Largs. The lovely Millport course on Cumbrae has many admirers.
Routenburn is where a young Sam Torrance learned the basics of the game, under the guidance of his
With such a variety of golf courses on offer in this region, your best ever golf break awaits.
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Great value golf in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran Make the most of your golf break in Ayrshire & Arran by snapping up one of the region’s great value golf passes. Enjoy your golf while knowing that you’re making great savings on green fees. Take up the challenge with the Ayrshire Open Qualifier Card. That thousands of golfers have taken up this offer in the past few years is testament to its benefits. The Ayrshire Open Qualifier Card allows you to tackle the region’s Open Championship Final Qualifying venues and save up to 40 percent on green fees. There’s the option of the three round weekday card for £140, the four round weekday card for £220 or the four round weekend card from £235. Participating courses on this card are Kilmarnock Barassie, a previous venue for the British Amateur Championship; Irvine Bogside, which offers the variety of holes you would expect of a top level course; Dundonald Links, designed by Kyle Phillips, the architect of Kingsbarns in Fife and Prestwick
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01
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St Nicholas, of which ‘Old’ Tom Morris was a founding member. For more on the Ayrshire Open Qualifier Card call 01383 629940 or visit www.ayrshiregolfpass.co.uk The Prestwick Golf Pass is a relatively new initiative which allows you to play Prestwick, Prestwick St Nicholas and Prestwick St Cuthbert for significantly discounted green fees. For more on the Prestwick Golf Pass call 01292 671020 or visit www.prestwickstnicholas.com You can golf the fine courses of South Ayrshire with the Golf South Ayrshire Pass, which is available in two options. You can play three of the area’s best courses for £54 or six great courses for £96.
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
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The course at Girvan was designed by James Braid – indeed the opening hole is named after him – and the outward nine especially is links golf at its most sublime. Some of the holes at Troon Lochgreen are reminiscent of those at neighbouring Royal Troon. Belleisle and its sister course Seafield are options with the Golf South Ayrshire Pass, as are the courses at Maybole, Darley, Fullarton and Dalmilling. For more on the Golf South Ayrshire Pass call 01292 616255 or visit www.golfsouthayrshire.com If you are intending to spend a bit of time on the Isle of Arran, you should consider the excellent Arran Golf Pass which allows you to play the island’s seven golf courses while saving up to 20 percent on green fees.
The Brodick course suits all abilities and has tremendous views of Goatfell, Arran’s famous mountain. Corrie is a lovely course with great views over the Firth of Clyde, while Lamlash is a wonderful island golf challenge. Machrie Bay offers nine pretty holes on the west of Arran where you’ll also find Shiskine, a quirky 12-hole course with bags of character. Whiting Bay provides you with a pleasant 18 holes and lovely views to the Holy Isle and you’ll find the lovely Lochranza course at the tip of Arran. For more on the Arran Golf Pass call 01770 830270 or visit www.arrangolfpass.com 01 The links at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club. 02 Prestwick St Nicholas Golf Course. 03 Shiskine Golf Course – unique in the world of golf.
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Travel tips
By ferry There are ferries from both Larne and Belfast to Cairnryan. Between March and October there is also a high speed ferry from Larne to Troon.
Wherever you’re travelling from, Ayrshire and the isles of Arran and Cumbrae are easy to reach by land, sea and air.
For more information visit www.stenaline.co.uk and www.poirishsea.com By air Glasgow Prestwick International Airport is in Ayrshire and receives many daily national and international flights. The airport also has its own railway station. Glasgow Airport is little more than 45 minutes from Ayrshire, with a bus link to Paisley Gilmour Street railway station which is on the main Glasgow to Ayr line. For more information visit www.gpia.co.uk and www.baa.com Island hopping Caledonian MacBrayne runs regular daily ferries between Ardrossan on the Ayrshire coast and Brodick on Arran. The crossing takes just under an hour. A summer ferry service also operates between Claonaig on the Kintyre Peninsula and Lochranza on Arran.
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By road The main road to Ayrshire from Glasgow is the M77. Travelling from England, head for Carlisle and once you’ve crossed the border, follow the signs for Kilmarnock and Ayr. A scenic alternative to the main roads is the Galloway Tourist Route (A713). By bus There are express coach links from all major cities via Glasgow, and a good network of local buses in Ayrshire and on the Isle of Arran.
For more information visit www.calmac.co.uk It’s only a 10 minute sea journey from Largs to the Isle of Cumbrae with ferries departing every 15 minutes in season and every 30 minutes out of season. The bus meets each ferry for onward transport to Millport.
For more information visit www.nationalexpress.com and www.travelinescotland.com
Where to find out more Find all you want to do in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran in one place. At a VisitScotland Information Centre we’ll tell you everything there is to see and do and help with everything else you’ll need for your visit.
By rail Ayrshire has a good rail network with stops at all major towns in the region. If you’re visiting Arran you can catch the train to Ardrossan for the ferry to the island.
Please refer to the list of VisitScotland Information Centres on page 17. Further travel information can be obtained in advance from www.traveline.org.uk or by calling 0871 200 2233.
For more information visit www.scotrail.co.uk and www.travelinescotland.com
01 The MV Caledonian Isles leaving Brodick.
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For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Golf course profiles Whatever your choice, from championship to 9-hole holiday golf, you can expect excellent value for money in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran. Browse through this guide and you’ll be sure to find a great range of challenging courses which will surprise and delight you. Quite irrespective of your choice however, the hospitality and warmth of welcome on offer at each is amongst the best to be found anywhere in Scotland.
Open qualifying open open The Open Championship was Qualifying Venue not only conceived in Ayrshire but returns to the area on a regular basis, most recently to Turnberry. On this occasion Glasgow Gailes, Irvine Bogside, Kilmarnock (Barassie) and Western Gailes were used as local qualifying courses however other Ayrshire courses have also been used in the past. The James Braid Collection Explore the legacy of James Braid, one of Scotland’s greatest golf course designers, golf champion and pioneer of the game. The west coast trail is a haven for romantic seascapes and beautiful scenery. Look for the logo on course listings to see where James Braid worked his magic.
The following pages contain profiles for every course in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran. The courses appear in alphabetical order, so you can easily find specific courses and then use the number reference to find them on the map (pages 18 – 19). Alternatively, if you want to search for courses in a certain area, simply locate them on the map and then use the map index to find their profile.
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Green fees listed are per round and each profile highlights which of the following facilities are available at each club.
Golf facility symbols Æ Clubhouse ≠ Club Hire
® Buggy Hire
™ Catering
≥ Trolley Hire
∞
Practice Area
¶ Bar
s Showers
≤
Putting Green
± Pro Shop
¨
Changing Rooms Ø Driving Range
02
¥ Passes accepted at weekends Δ Visiting Golfers Welcome
01 Western Gailes Golf Course, Irvine. 02 The municipal Annanhill Golf Course.
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Ayrshire golf courses ANNANHILL GOLF COURSE
BALLOCHMYLE GOLF CLUB
1 68399
Irvine Road, Kilmarnock KA1 2RT T: 01563 521512 Annanhill.golf@east-ayrshire.gov.uk www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/comser/ outdoorservices/golf-annan
Municipal parkland course with both tree-lined and wide fairways. Visitors welcome. Bookable seven days in advance. Golf party bookings taken.
Open: All year
Mauchline KA5 6LE T: 01290 550469 ballochmylegolf@btconnect.com www.ballochmylegolfclub.com
5 Traditional Scottish club in the heart of Burns Country. Tricky, well-maintained greens and lush tight fairways.
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£18
£23
H: 18 Par/SSS: 69/69
Round
£22.50
£27.50 (Sun)
H: 18 Par/SSS: 70/69
D/Ticket
£30.50
£42
Length: 6,269yds
D/Ticket
£32.50
£37.50 (Sun)
Length: 5,972yds
ARDEER GOLF COURSE
BEITH GOLF COURSE
Tree-lined course with views of the Firth of Clyde. Enjoy a challenging round on our deceptively demanding golf course. Green fees Tues & Thurs £15 per round.
12512
2
Greenhead, Stevenston KA20 4LB T: 01294 464542 info@ardeergolfclub.co.uk www.ardeergolfclub.co.uk
Æ™¶≥s¨∞≤
Open: All year
6
Threepwood Road, Beith KA15 2JR T: 01505 503166 F: 01505 506814 beith_secretary@btconnect.com www.beithgolfclub.co.uk
Hilly parkland course with spectacular views over the Clyde Coast. Challenges: rolling fairways, small undulating greens & strong winds.
14720
¥
Æ™¶®s¨∞≤
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£25
£35
H: 18 Par/SSS: 72/71
Round
£20
£25
H: 18 Par/SSS: 69/69
D/Ticket
£40
£50
Length: 6,409yds
D/Ticket
£30
N/A
Length: 5,641yds
Æ™¶±≥®s¨∞≤
Æ™¶≥s¨
AUCHENHARVIE GOLF COURSE
3
A 9-hole course with water features, which may be played as 18 holes with different tee positions on the second nine.
13398
Moorpark Road West, Stevenston KA20 3HU T: 01294 603103 www.kaleisure.com
For more information on Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£9.50
£9.50
H: 9/18 Par/SSS: 66/64
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 2,530/5,132yds
www.ayrshire-arran.com
Æ™¶±≠≤Ø
BELLEISLE GOLF COURSE
Boasts a challenging 9-hole par 32 course, 13 bay and 4 outside bay floodlit driving range, all grass short game area, putting green and golf coaching academy.
Open: All year
52038
4
Roodland, Ayr KA6 6EP T: 01292 570727 golfpro@ayrgolfcentre.co.uk www.ayrgolfcentre.co.uk
Belleisle Park, Doonfoot Road, Ayr KA7 4DU T: 01292 441258 F: 01292 442632 belleisle-golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Round
£7.50
£9
H: 9 Par/SSS: 32
Round
D/Ticket
£11
£13.50
Length: 1,882yds
D/Ticket
™±≠≥≤Ø
08
7 In 1927 James Braid designed Belleisle, arguably the finest public parkland course in the UK with spectacular views over to the Isle of Arran.
55231
AYR GOLF CENTRE
Weekday
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Æ™±≠≥s¨∞≤
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Type: Parkland H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/72 Length: 6,446yds
¥
Ayrshire golf courses DOON VALLEY GOLF COURSE 16687
8
In the sheltered valley of the Water of Girvan beside the South Carrick Hills, this championship length course is in an area of outstanding beauty. For all standards of golfer, providing a stubborn test to even skilful players.
Golf Course Road, Dailly KA26 9GD T: 01465 811471 F: 01465 811545 enquiries@brunstoncastle.co.uk www.brunstoncastle.co.uk
A challenging hillside course offering lush fairways, well kept greens and spectacular views of the Banks and Braes of bonny Doon!
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Round
£15-£32
£15-£37
H: 18 Par/SSS: 72/72
Round
£13
N/A
H: 9 Par/SSS: 70/68
D/Ticket
£30-£54
£30-£59
Length: 6,022yds
D/Ticket
£15.50
N/A
Length: 5,450yds
Δ
Æ™¶s¨∞≤
CAPRINGTON GOLF COURSE
9
DUNDONALD LINKS
Ayr Road, Kilmarnock KA1 4UW T: 01563 521915 caprington.golf@east-ayrshire.gov.uk
68399
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤Ø
Parkland course with excellent feature holes. Visitors welcome anytime. Golf party bookings taken. 9-hole course great for beginners.
Open: All year
Type: Inland
¥ 13
Ayr Road, Gailes, Irvine KA11 5BF T: 01294 314000 F: 01294 314001 reservations@dundonaldlinks.com www.dundonaldlinks.com
Ranked amongst the best in Scotland, Dundonald Links is a thoroughly natural test of golf; the fairways are generous and, regardless of your handicap, the course is a welcome challenge for players of all ability.
76638
Open: All year
12
1 Hillside, Patna KA6 7JT T: 01292 531607 F: 01292 532489 www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/comser/ outdoorservices/golf-patna
68399
BRUNSTON CASTLE GOLF COURSE
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
£18
£23
H: 18 Par/SSS: 67/69
Round
£95
£95
H: 18 Par/SSS: 72/74
D/Ticket
£30.50
£42
Length: 5,830yds
D/Ticket
£145
£145
Length: 6,765yds
¥
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤Ø
DALMILLING GOLF COURSE
10
FULLARTON GOLF COURSE
An open and honest parkland course where the River Ayr and its tributary burns add interest to the early holes.
Round D/Ticket
Open: All year
Weekday
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
H: 18 Par/SSS: 69/68
Round
Length: 5,686yds
D/Ticket
Æ™±≠≥¨≤
DARLEY GOLF COURSE Harling Drive, Troon KA10 6NF T: 01292 312464 F: 01292 312578 troon-golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com
Round D/Ticket
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤
11
GIRVAN GOLF COURSE
Troon Darley is rated in Scotland’s top ten most challenging courses. Tight, undulating links-type fairways are bordered with unforgiving heather and gorse.
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
¥ 55231
Green Fees
14 Endless enjoyment for golfers of more modest ability or golf societies looking for a testing morning warm-up round.
Type: Links H: 18 Par/SSS: 66/64 Length: 4,869yds
¥ 15
Golf Course Road, Girvan KA26 9HW T/F: 01465 714346 girvan.golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com
Another James Braid design, Girvan is shorter than its neighbour Turnberry. The first 8 holes are classic links on the banks of the Clyde. The other 10 holes are parkland.
55231
Open: All year
Harling Drive, Troon KA10 6NF T: 01292 312464 F: 01292 312578 troon-golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com
55231
Westwood Avenue, Ayr KA8 0QY T: 01292 263893 F: 01292 610543 ian.robertson@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com
55231
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤
Open: All year
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Heathland/Links
Green Fees
Contact us for details on Green Fees
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/72
Round
Length: 6,321yds
D/Ticket
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤
¥
Weekday
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Type: Links/Parkland H: 18 Par/SSS: 64/64 Length: 5,064yds
Æ™¶≠≥s≤
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
¥
09
Ayrshire golf courses GLASGOW GAILES LINKS
16
KILBIRNIE PLACE GOLF COURSE Largs Road, Kilbirnie KA25 7AT T: 01505 684444 kilbirnie.golfclub@tiscali.co.uk www.kilbirnieplacegolfclub.webs.com
19
The relatively short length of this parkland course (some 5,500 yards) is compensated by tricky greens and natural hazards.
Open: All year
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£10
£15
H: 18 Par/SSS: 69/67
D/Ticket
£20
£25
Length: 5,524yds
Æ™¶≥s¨
Open: All year Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
£75
£80
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/74
Gailes, Irvine KA11 5EA T: 01294 311258 F: 01294 279366
N/A
Length: 6,903yds 67770
£90
KILMARNOCK (BARASSIE) GOLF COURSE
admin@gaileslinks.co.uk www.gaileslinks.co.uk
2008 Palmer Cup, 2009 Open Championship Final Qualifying course, 2010 Scottish Stroke Play Championship, 2012 Home Internationals, 2012 The Amateur Championship. “One of the world’s truly great tests of golf” – Sandy Lyle. The Gailes open Golf Experience – 3 championship course package. Qualifying
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤Ø
29 Hillhouse Road, Barassie, Troon KA10 6SY T: 01292 313920/311077 F: 01292 318300 golf@kbgc.co.uk www.kbgc.co.uk
An Open Championship Final Qualifying venue with a well deserved reputation for some of the best-maintained greens in Scotland. Second round open within 7 days: Qualifying W/day £45, W/end £55
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
£57
£67
H: 18 Par/SSS: 72/74
D/Ticket
£82
N/A
Length: 6,484yds
Æ™¶±≥®s¨∞≤Ø
IRVINE – BOGSIDE GOLF COURSE Bogside, Irvine KA12 8SN T: 01294 275979 F: 01294 278209 secretary@theirvinegolfclub.co.uk
20 33837
Green Fees
D/Ticket
Green Fees
17
Fairways built on sand and divided by gorse and heather. Greens traditionally the best that can be found in the area. open
LARGS GOLF CLUB
21
Irvine Road, Largs KA30 8EU T/F: 01475 673594 secretary@largsgolfclub.co.uk www.largsgolfclub.co.uk
Superb 18-hole parkland course situated in front of Kelburn Castle. Magnificent views across the Firth of Clyde towards the Cumbraes and Arran.
Qualifying
Open: All year
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland/Private
Round
£50
£60
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/72
Round
£36
£40
H: 18 Par/SSS: 70/71
D/Ticket
£60
N/A
Length: 6,408yds
D/Ticket
£48
N/A
Length: 6,140yds
Æ™¶±≥s¨∞≤
Æ™¶±≥s¨≤
18
A flat parkland course, opened in 1907, which provides even the experienced golfer with an exciting challenge.
Open: All year
LOCHGREEN GOLF COURSE Harling Drive, Troon KA10 6NF T: 01292 312464 F: 01292 312578 troon-golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Round
£17.50
£17.50
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/71
Round
D/Ticket
£32
£32
Length: 6,429yds
D/Ticket
Æ™¶±≥s¨≤
10
22 Troon Lochgreen, is an uplandlinks course which has been used for Open Championship qualifying – it was where Jack Nicklaus qualified for his first British Open.
55231
Kidsneuk, Irvine KA12 8SR T: 01294 276467 www.kaleisure.com
51169
IRVINE – RAVENSPARK GOLF COURSE
Weekday
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Type: Links H: 18 Par/SSS: 74/73 Length: 6,785yds
¥
Ayrshire golf courses LOUDOUN GOWF CLUB
67562
23 A splendid parkland course with many mature trees – a great environment in which to play and enjoy your golf. Why not give Loudoun a visit.
Edinburgh Road, Galston KA4 8PA T: 01563 821993 F: 01563 820011 secy@loudoungowfclub.co.uk www.loudoungowfclub.co.uk Open: All year
NEW CUMNOCK GOLF COURSE Lochhill, Cumnock Road, New Cumnock KA18 4BQ T: 01290 338848 www.newcumnockgolfclub.com
26
Designed by Willie Fernie in 1901. Testing parkland course with views overlooking the loch.
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland/Woodland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£30
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 68/69
Round
£12.50
£12.50
H: 18 Par/SSS: 66/66
D/Ticket
£40
N/A
Length: 6,005yds
D/Ticket
£12.50
£12.50
Length: 3,176yds
ƨ
MAYBOLE GOLF COURSE
A delightful “town” 9-hole course with some breathtaking views of the surrounding Carrick Hills.
55231
24
Memorial Park, Maybole, Ayrshire KA19 7DX T: 01292 616255 www.golfsouthayrshire.com
Day ticket available to play Maybole and Girvan. Open: All year
Green Fees
NORTH GAILES GOLF CENTRE
27
Marine Drive, Irvine KA11 5AE T: 01294 316090 F: 01294 223951 reception@northgailes.co.uk www.northgailes.co.uk
Coaching studio, driving range, 9-hole golf course, short game zone, Target Practice Course and American Golf shop.
66799
Æ™¶≥®s¨≤
Open: All year
Weekday
Round
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
D/Ticket
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
H: 18 Par/SSS: 66/66
Round
£10
£10
H: 9 Par/SSS: 33/33
Length: 5,226yds
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 2,243yds
¥
Æ≠¨≤
Type: Parkland
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PRESTWICK GOLF COURSE
Pick up a free copy of the Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran Where to Stay Guide
28 50428
2 Links Road, Prestwick KA9 1QG T: 01292 477404 F: 01292 477255 secretary@prestwickgc.co.uk www.prestwickgc.co.uk
Established in 1851 and inaugurated the Open Championship in 1860.
open Venue
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
£130
£155 (Sun)
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/73
D/Ticket
£185
N/A
Length: 6,544yds
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤
25
c/o 65 Main Street, Muirkirk, Cumnock KA18 3QR T: 01290 660184 (night) T: 01292 570728 (day) bert.bradford@ayrshire-precision.co.uk www.scottishgolfsouthwest.com
Challenging 9-hole golf course. Course has now been open since 1991 and course record is still 66.
Open: All year
PRESTWICK – ST CUTHBERT GOLF COURSE East Road, Prestwick KA9 2SX T: 01292 477101 F: 01292 671730 secretary@stcuthbert.co.uk www.stcuthbert.co.uk
29
A very picturesque and challenging mature parkland course, excellent greens, and with no fewer than nine doglegs accuracy in positioning from the tee is as important as length.
50433
MUIRKIRK GOLF COURSE
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Heathland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£10
£10
H: 18 Par/SSS: 67/67
Round
£35
£39
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/71
D/Ticket
£10
£10
Length: 5,366yds
D/Ticket
£48
£55
Length: 6,332yds
Æ™¨
¥
Æ™¶≥®s¨∞≤
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
11
Ayrshire golf courses PRESTWICK – ST NICHOLAS GOLF COURSE
30 56031
Grangemuir Road, Prestwick, KA9 1SN T: 01292 477608 F: 01292 473900 secretary@prestwickstnicholas.com www.prestwickstnicholas.com
Open: All year Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
£55
£60
H: 9
D/Ticket
£75
N/A
Length: 6,044yds
Par/SSS: 69/69
St Nicholas Golf Club For those in search of traditional links golf, there is no setting finer than the undulating fairways and slick greens of Prestwick St Nicholas. Exponents of the links game will find the course layout to be right up their street with gorse, deep bunkers and an ever-present wind providing a true test. St Nicholas has hosted many amateur and professional tournaments and in 2011, co-hosted, with Prestwick Golf Club, the Scottish Area Team Championship. Contact us to find out about the Prestwick Pass. See our website for a video of the course.
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤
ROUTENBURN GOLF COURSE
31 This hilly, moorland course offers the golfer an unforgettable experience. Breathtaking views over Arran and the Cumbraes.
52294
Routenburn Road, Largs KA30 8QA T: 01475 687240 www.kaleisure.com
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£17.50
£17.50
H: 18 Par/SSS: 67/67
D/Ticket
£32
£32
Length: 5,650yds
Pick up a free copy of the Ayrshire & The Isles of Arran and Cumbrae What to See & Do Guide
Æ™¶±≠≥
Kilmaurs KA3 2LP T: 01563 530550 niall@rowallancastle.com www.rowallancastle.com
32 The course layout by winning Ryder Cup Captain, Colin Montgomerie, has been hailed a masterpiece by those that have been fortunate enough to play it since the opening in 2009.
ROYAL TROON GOLF CLUB – OLD COURSE
33 52464
ROWALLAN GOLF COURSE
The Old Course is a challenging test of golfing ability. With the wind to contend with, and deep rough interspersed with gorse and broom, accurate shot making is essential. Green fees include complimentary open round on the Portland Course Venue – Mid April to Mid September.
Craigend Road, Troon KA10 6EP T: 01292 311555 F: 01292 318204 bookings@royaltroon.com www.royaltroon.com Open: Apr – Oct
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Round
£65
£85
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/71
Round
£175
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/75
D/Ticket
£120
£160
Length: 6,882yds
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 7,150yds
Æ™¶±≥s¨∞≤Ø
12
¥
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤Ø
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Type: Links
Ayrshire golf courses
Open: Apr – Oct
TURNBERRY – THE KINTYRE Turnberry Resort (Scotland), Maidens Road, Turnberry KA26 9LT T: 01655 331000 F: 01655 331706 turnberry@luxurycollection.com www.turnberryresort.co.uk
38 60771
34
The holes meander through terrain filled with gorse and broom and has a generous helping of Par 3s, five in all. Complimentary round included in Green Fee for Old Course – Mid April to Mid Sept.
Craigend Road, Troon KA10 6EP T: 01292 311555 F: 01292 318204 bookings@royaltroon.com www.royaltroon.com
52564
ROYAL TROON GOLF CLUB – PORTLAND
The Kintyre offers links golf at its exhilarating best. Undulating greens, glorious fairways, magnificent ocean holes, and all with open stunning views. Qualifying
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Round
N/A
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/71
Round
POA
POA
H: 18 Par/SSS: 72/71
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 6,289yds
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 6,921yds
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤Ø
55231
35 Ayr Seafield provides a classic combination of ten parkland and eight links-type holes and is a worthy complement to the ‘big sister’ course of Belleisle.
D/Ticket
33-35 Fullerton Drive, West Kilbride KA23 9HT T: 01294 823911 F: 01294 829573 golf@westkilbridegolfclub.com www.westkilbridegolfclub.com
39
Championship-standard course, bordered on one side by agricultural land and on the other by the beach. Generally flat but open with many Qualifying undulations.
Weekday
Weekend
Contact us for details on Green Fees
Type: Links
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
H: 18 Par/SSS: 67/67
Round
£45
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/71
Length: 5,481yds
D/Ticket
£60
N/A
Length: 6,548yds
Æ™±≠≥s¨∞≤
SKELMORLIE GOLF COURSE Beithglass Road, Skelmorlie PA17 5ES T: 01475 520152 F: 01475 522626 sec@skelmorliegolf.co.uk www.skelmorliegolf.co.uk
¥
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤
36
WESTERN GAILES GOLF CLUB
Short but tricky course where good positional play will do well. Ideal for a day ticket (rounds just over 3 hours for a 3 ball).
Gailes, by Irvine, North Ayrshire KA11 5AE T: 01294 311649 F: 01294 312312 enquiries@westerngailes.com www.westerngailes.com
Open: All year
40 This natural links course is a final qualifyer for The Open when staged at Turnberry or Royal Troon.
81090
Round
THE WEST KILBRIDE GOLF COURSE
Open: All year
Open: All year
Green Fees
Δ¥
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SEAFIELD GOLF COURSE Belleisle Park, Doonfoot Road, Ayr KA7 4DU T: 01292 441258 F: 01292 442632 belleisle-golf@south-ayrshire.gov.uk www.golfsouthayrshire.com
Type: Links
open
Qualifying
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Moorland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Round
£22
£27
H: 18 Par/SSS: 65/65
Round
£125
£125
H: 18 Par/SSS: 71/74
D/Ticket
£27
£32
Length: 5,030yds
D/Ticket
£175
N/A
Length: 6,640yds
Æ™¶≠≥s¨≤
Type: Coastal/Links
Æ™¶≠≥®s¨∞≤
TURNBERRY – THE AILSA
Long regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the world. The Ailsa came to international prominence with that famous duel in the sun between open Jack Nicklaus and Tom Venue Watson in 1977.
60771
37
Turnberry Resort (Scotland), Maidens Road, Turnberry KA26 9LT T: 01655 331000 F: 01655 331706 turnberry@luxurycollection.com www.turnberryresort.co.uk Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
POA
POA
H: 18 Par/SSS: 70/69
D/Ticket
N/A
N/A
Length: 7,211yds
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤Ø
Δ
Did you know? On its stony ridge on the edge of the sea, the 9th hole is Turnberry’s trademark. The landmark lighthouse casts shadows over the 13th century ruins of Bruce’s Castle, the reputed birthplace of Scotland’s hero king Robert the Bruce.
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
13
Isles of Arran and Cumbrae golf courses 41 70931
Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8DL T: 01770 302349 info@brodickgolf.com www.brodickgolf.com
Challenges and obstacles, three tough cross-water Par 3s, a tricky dogleg Par 5, and deceptive Par 4s at the turn.
Open: All year
MACHRIE BAY GOLF COURSE Machrie Bay, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8DZ T: 01770 840329 machriebay@gmail.com www.machriebay.com
45 88466
BRODICK GOLF COURSE
Each hole is full of character, a true facet of a Scottish island golf course.
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Round
£25
£28
H: 9 Par/SSS: 62/61
Round
N/A
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 68/62
D/Ticket
£35
£38
Length: 4.354yds
D/Ticket
£17
£17
Length: 4,556yds
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤
CORRIE GOLF COURSE
This is easily one of the most beautiful golf courses in Scotland and well worth the short trip from the mainland.
20520
42
Corrie, Sannox, Isle of Arran KA27 8JD T: 01770 810606/810223 www.corriegolf.com
¥
Æ™≠≥¨∞≤
Open: All year
MILLPORT GOLF COURSE Isle of Cumbrae KA28 0HB T: 01475 530306 secretary@millportgolfclub.co.uk www.millportgolfclub.co.uk
46 Demands a full repertoire of shot making. Several blind shots and tricky approaches. Panoramic views over the Firth.
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Island
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Heathland
Round
£20
£20
H: 18 Par/SSS: 6261
Round
£24
£32
H: 18 Par/SSS: 68/69
D/Ticket
£20
£20
Length: 3,896yds
D/Ticket
£30
£38
Length: 5,828yds
LAMLASH GOLF COURSE Lamlash, Isle of Arran KA27 8JU T: Bar/Restaurant 01770 600296 Starter 01770 600196 info@lamlashgolfclub.com www.lamlashgolfclub.co.uk
43 Wonderfully scenic. Many long Par 3s, plus tricky Par 4s where an off-centre tee shot will likely never be seen again.
Open: All year
Æ™¶±≠≥s¨∞≤Ø
¥
SHISKINE GOLF COURSE
47
Blackwaterfoot, Shiskine, Isle of Arran KA27 8HA T: 01770 860226 F: 01770 860205 info@shiskinegolf.com www.shiskinegolf.com
Picturesque 12-hole course. One of the most unusual gems in the world of golf. Virtually every hole has a blind shot.
54580
Æ™≥s¨≤
Open: All year
Type: Heathland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Links
Round
Consult website
H: 18 Par/SSS: 64/64
Round
£20
£25
H: 18 Par/SSS: 42/41
D/Ticket
Consult website
Length: 4,510yds
D/Ticket
£35
£39
Length: 2,990yds
Æ™¶±≠≥®s¨∞≤
Æ™±≠≥®s¨≤
LOCHRANZA GOLF COURSE Lochranza, Isle of Arran KA27 8HL T: 01770 830273 office@lochgolf.demon.co.uk www.lochranzagolf.com
44 Just pay and play then enjoy stunning scenery and a challenging course. Red deer graze round-about and eagles fly overhead.
Open: Apr – Oct
WHITING BAY GOLF COURSE Golf Course Road, Whiting Bay, Isle of Arran KA27 8QT T: 01770 700487 info@whitingbaygolf.com www.whitingbaygolf.com
48 Set high on the coast of Arran with spectacular panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde to the Ayrshire coast and Holy Isle.
68082
Green Fees
Open: All year
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Parkland
Green Fees
Weekday
Weekend
Type: Inland
Round
£10
£10
H: 9 Par/SSS: 34
Round
N/A
N/A
H: 18 Par/SSS: 63/63
D/Ticket
£15
£15
Length: 2,332yds
D/Ticket
£24
£28
Length: 4,063yds
≠≥s¨∞≤
14
¥
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For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Local golf driving ranges If you feel your game is a little rough around the edges, make sure you factor in a visit to a driving range or practice facility during the early part of your stay. It is definitely the best way to dust off the cobwebs.
01
01 Practice makes perfect. Auchenharvie
(18 bays)
Brunston Castle
(8 bays)
01294 603103 01465 811471
Gailes
(27 bays)
01294 316090
Loudoun
(23 bays)
01563 822061
Roodlea
(17 bays)
01292 570727
Turnberry
(18 bays)
01655 334190
To make planning your next golďŹ ng trip to Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran as effortless as possible go to www.ayrshire-arran.com/golf
www.visitayrshire.co.uk
www.golfsouthayrshire.com
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
15
Where the sky meets the sea, amongst the dunes and gorse, lies one of Europe s best new courses.
Our Kyle Phillips-designed course offers challenging golf, a magniÄcent setting and superb conditions for allyear-round play. Dundonald Links provides 7,100 yards of perfect links golf. It has been recognised as one of the Top 100 courses in Britain and Ireland – and one of the Änest in Scotland. If you’re visiting Ayrshire’s Golf Coast, it’s a ‘must play’ experience. Visit our new website with online booking
www.dundonaldlinks.com 16 For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Find all you want to do in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran in one place. At a VisitScotland Information Centre we’ll tell you about everything you want to see, everything you want to do and everything else you’ll need for your visit. Our friendly experts can offer advice on all things local as well as sharing their wider knowledge of Scotland. We don’t just advise either. We can sort out your accommodation and all your travel needs, as well as tickets for events across Scotland. So if you’re looking to get the most from your visit, there really is only one place to go.
Ayr
22 Sandgate, Ayr KA7 1BW – 01292 290300
Brodick The Pier, Brodick, Isle of Arran KA27 8AU – 01770 303774
Open All Year Open April until October Plotted on the area map on pages 18 – 19
Some Centres may not offer all services listed
Information Centres
visitscotland.com/wheretofindus
Area map and course index
18
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
19
Quality Assurance
Scotland’s Star Quality! - A simple, impartial, consistent approach to quality VisitScotland, under the Scottish Tourist Board brand, runs the star grading schemes which assess the quality standards of all types of accommodation and visitor attractions. Get the most out of your golfing trip Be sure to look for the Golfers Welcome  and the Visiting Golfers Welcome £ schemes. These show you what facilities are available at accommodation providers and golf clubs across the country.
The promise of the stars: it is clean, tidy and an acceptable standard Â? Â?Â?
it is a good, all round standard
Â?Â?Â?
it is a very good standard, with attention to detail in every area
Â?Â?Â?Â?
it is excellent – furnished using high quality materials, superb food where provided and friendly, professional service
Â?Â?Â?Â?Â?
an exceptional standard where presentation, ambience, food where provided and service are hard to fault
Because we care Businesses that try to work in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way are graded. Bronze ›,Silver ˆ, or Gold Š. www.green-business.co.uk
Establishments awarded gold stars have consistently achieved the highest levels of excellence within their star grading.
The very best of food and drink EatScotland is a nationwide food Quality Assurance scheme from VisitScotland .
Access all areas The following symbols will help visitors with physical disabilities to decide whether accommodation is suitable:
Those with extra special standards of food are awarded EatScotland Silver or Gold . Look out for the new Scotland’s Best Bars scheme. www.visitscotland.com/foodanddrink
Unassisted wheelchair access Assisted wheelchair access Access for visitors with mobility difficulties
Symbols - Please note you should always check that a particular facility/service is available at the time of booking Ensuite bath and/or shower for all bedrooms Ensuite bath and/ or shower for some bedrooms Private bath and/or shower for all bedrooms Private bath and/ or shower for some bedrooms : Washbasins in bedrooms/ rooms + Hairdryer in bedrooms [ Telephone in bedrooms/ self catering unit \ Payphone available P Television available Q No Television Ground floor bedrooms available / Bed linen provided on request – free or for hire 7 Towels provided on request – free or for hire J Laundry facilities on site Z Washing machine
20
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Tumble dryer
Eating out facilities within 2 miles or meal service available (Hostel) ] Full alcohol drinks licence/ Licenced bar D Lounge E TV Lounge < Open hearth fire Satellite/Cable TV Â Broadband Â&#x2DC; WiFi iPod docking station w DVD player available { CD player available S Private parking T Limited parking } Disabled parking on site * Garden M Leisure facilities Outdoor swimming pool Indoor swimming pool
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Regular live entertainment Games room Childrensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; play area Short Breaks Available Credit/debit cards accepted Property on working farm/croft Pets accepted by arrangement Building of historic/ literary/architectural interest Gaelic language spoken Additional charge for power/fuel/heating Not all properties/ caravans have all facilities
Serviced accommodation may also provide the following: N Tea/Coffee making facilities in bedrooms 5 Restaurant ; Evening meal available
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
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Room service Restricted alcohol drinks licence
O 3 A a
Smoking rooms available Laundry service Porterage Four-poster beds Packed lunches by arrangement Vegetarian diets provided Special diets provided Passenger lift
9 6 X
Self Catering may also provide the following: Ensuite bath and/or shower room(s) in self catering unit
Non-smoking establishment > Microwave G Dishwasher I Freezer K Domestic help
Hotels and Inns ooo Hotel E4
AYR
Mercure Ayr
Located in the town centre, walking distance from the shops, bars, restaurants and night clubs. There are 22 golf courses within a 20 mile radius including the Open Qualifiers. Mercure Ayr boasts a full swing golf simulator – where you can experience 50 courses in 5 contintents. Dalblair Road, Ayr KA7 3RQ T: 0844 815 9005 F: 01292 610722 gm.mercureayr@jupiterhotels.co.uk www.jupiterhotels.co.uk
Nearest Courses: Belleisle, Seafield, Prestwick St Cuthberts, Prestwick St Nicholas, Prestwick Old Course, Lochgreen, Darley, Fullarton.
88877
Open: All year 51075
Open: All year
ooo Hotel E4
PRESTWICK
Carlton Hotel
Located only 1.5 miles from Prestwick International Airport and a 40 min drive from Glasgow city centre, this modern hotel is central for all local attractions and Ayrshire’s finest golf courses. Centrally located, bars and restaurants, modern accommodation, WiFi, parking. Wheatpark Place, Whitletts Road, Ayr KA8 9RT T: 01292 272300 info@hiexpressayr.com holidayinnexpressayr.com
Nearest Courses: Prestwick, Prestwick St Cuthbert, Prestwick St Nicholas, Royal Troon, Belleisle, Lochgreen, Seafield, Turnberry.
Sgl (40) from £50 pppn Dbl/Twn (66) from £65 pppn DB&B (sgl) from £65 pppn DB&B (dbl) from £95 pppn Fam (12) – Ensuite/priv facs (128)
Dbl/twn (84) £55-£89 prpn Ensuite/priv facs (84)
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A boutique feel hotel with adjacent spa and golf facilities.
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TROON
Marine Drive, Gailes, Irvine KA11 5AE T: 01294 204040 F: 01294 204047 info@gaileshotel.com www.gaileshotel.com Nearest Courses: Dundonald Links, Glasgow Gailes, Western Gailes, Prestwick, Royal Troon, Irvine Bogside, Prestwick St Nicholas, Turnberry.
Open: All year BB Sgl Dbl/Twn DB&B (sgl) DB&B (dbl/tw) Ensuite/priv facs
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from £55 pppn from £40 pppn from £75 pppn from £60 pppn (43)
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Gailes Restaurant & Hotel
65715
IRVINE
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South Beach Hotel
To find your ideal place to stay use the map reference and refer to the map on pages 18 – 19
Ideally situated for all private and municipal courses in the area. Golf packages to suit all budgets. 5 minutes walk from Royal Troon, Portland, municipal course and town centre. Club store and drying facilities. Friendly comfortable traditional Scottish hotel. 73 South Beach, Troon KA10 6EG T: 01292 312033 F: 01292 318438 info@southbeach.co.uk www.southbeach.co.uk Sgl (3) £40-£75 prpn DB&B (sgl) £55-£90 prpn Ensuite/priv facs (32)
Nearest Courses: Royal Troon, Portland, Old Prestwick, Kilmarnock Barassie, Western Gailes, Glasgow Gailes, Dundonald Links, Troon Municipal.
Dbl/Twn (29) £70-£110 prpn DB&B (dbl) £100-£140 prpn
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To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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21
Hotels and Inns oooo Small Hotel E4
Old Loans Inn The ideal location for championship links golf and great hospitality.
48296
By TROON
Main Street, Loans, Troon KA10 7EX T: 01292 315976 info@oldloansinn.co.uk www.oldloansinn.co.uk
Open: All year Nearest Courses: Dundonald BB Sgl (20) Links, Glasgow Gailes, Western Dbl/Twn (20) Gailes, Prestwick, Royal Troon, Irvine DB&B (sgl) DB&B (dbl/tw) Bogside, Prestwick St Nicholas, Ensuite/priv facs Kilmarnock Barassie.
from £60 pppn from £40 pppn from £80 pppn from £60 pppn (20)
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Download some great money saving offers
Looking for Quality Gifts & Souvenirs? Many of our Information Centres have a great range of quality gift items including local crafts, books, jewellery and clothes. Pop in and let our knowledgeable staff advise on the perfect gift or souvenir.
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www.visitscotland.com/surpriseoffers
22
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Information Centres visitscotland.com/wheretofindus
Play The Legend Cool, crisp sea air. Long fairways, true greens, challenging rough. This is Turnberry, a five star resort and host venue for four Open Championships. Situated on Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rugged Ayrshire coast, with fine views over sea, islands and mountains, Turnberry is an inspirational golfing experience, for world class pros and enthusiastic beginners alike.
Turnberry | Turnberry Ayrshire, KA26 9LT, United Kingdom t 01655 331 000 | f 01655 331 706 | turnberry.co.uk
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
23
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Sail-Explore-Experience Sail the unique waters around Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west coast and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discover adventure, variety and an amazing experience. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nowhere else in the world quite like it. For further information and updates, go to
visitscotland.com/malinwaters
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For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
Luxury Golf Breaks Three night luxury golďŹ ng package to include complimentary golf each day on a choice of 3 local courses. Guests can choose from Stranraer, Portpatrick and Wigtownshire County Golf Courses.
Ballantrae, Ayrshire KA26 0NZ Tel: 01465 831 212 Email info@glenappcastle.com www.glenappcastle.com
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
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Best Western
Iâ&#x20AC; â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Besâ&#x20AC; whenâ&#x20AC;¦.
Isle of Arran
Best location, Best value, Best golf break this year. Best Western Kinloch Hotel, Blackwaterfoot, The Isle of Arran Tel: 01770 860444 www.bw-kinlochhotel.co.uk
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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Away from the fairways
01
Though the golf may be taking up the bulk of your time in Ayrshire and Arran, the region has much else to offer in the way of culture, castles, cuisine and more besides.
Robert Burns is Ayrshire’s most famous son. Scotland’s national poet was born in the village of Alloway and his life and work are celebrated throughout the region. You can learn a good deal about the great man by visiting the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway and the Burns House Museum in Mauchline. Then there’s the ever popular Burns an’ a’ that! Festival which takes place in May. One of the biggest arts events in the west of Scotland, the festival celebrates Burns’ considerable literary achievements with a programme of music, dance, theatre and comedy. In Ayrshire you will find some of Scotland’s grandest castles and one of the most spectacular is Culzean Castle near Maybole. Considered to be the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the National Trust for Scotland, Culzean Castle enjoys a dramatic cliff-top setting. Dundonald Castle is an impressive fortified tower house that was built for Robert II while Kelburn Castle
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For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
02
04
01 The birthplace of Robert Burns, Alloway. 02 Culzean Castle and Country Park, Maybole. 03 Machrie Moor stone circles, Isle of Arran. 04 Dean Castle and Country Park, Kilmarnock. Back on the mainland, the coastal towns of Largs and Troon both stage major sailing events, while Ayr Racecourse, Scotland’s premier racetrack, hosts the Scottish Grand National and the Ayr Gold Cup. 03
dates from the 13th century. Dumfries House, one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes, features a stunning collection of Chippendale furniture. The journey across the sea toward Arran’s dramatic peaks is impressive enough and once you set foot on the island there is so much to discover and do. Take a walk to the top of Goatfell, Arran’s highest peak, or explore one of the island’s gorgeous glens, such as Glen Rosa. Glenashdale Falls are well worth witnessing and then there are Arran’s intriguing historical sites like the mysterious standing stones on Machrie Moor and the various Pictish carvings and burial cairns scattered across the island. Arran has an abundance of wildlife with everything from golden eagles to basking sharks. The island offers a huge range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, paragliding, horse riding and mountain biking.
Top family attractions in Ayrshire include the Heads of Ayr Farm Park which has 50 different animals and an excellent outdoor play area. Dean Castle and Country Park enjoys a splendid setting and runs a year-round programme of events for adventurers young and old. For the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in a luxury spa treatment and a spot of aromatherapy at one of Ayrshire and Arran’s top hotels. Then dine in style at one of the region’s award-winning restaurants. There’s a lot of lush farmland in Ayrshire and the region is renowned for producing some of the finest beef and lamb in the country. Also the waters off the Ayrshire coast offer such fresh delights as mussels and scallops. For a small island, Arran dishes up an amazing amount of produce with everything from artisan cheeses to homemade oatcakes and chocolates. The island also has its own whisky distillery and craft brewery.
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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What’s on
Key Map Reference (See map on pages 18 – 19)
C3
Family Food & Drink Great Outdoors Highland Games Local Shows & Galas Music, Arts & Culture Sports
April 20 – 21 Coral Grand National Festival Ayr Racecourse, Ayr www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk
May
01
Alive with events and festivals, there’s always something exciting going on in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran.
4–6 Darvel Music Festival
South Ayrshire Council runs a Summer Golf Festival with special competitions in the towns of Girvan and Troon.
Various venues, Girvan www.girvanfolkfestival.co.uk
Besides the golf, there is a busy and varied programme of events which focus on aspects such as wildlife, the poetry of Burns, traditional music, horse racing and the region’s proud maritime history. Throughout the year, towns and villages across Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran celebrate the very best of the region, with visitors always more than welcome to join in.
Town Hall, Darvel www.darvelmusicfestival.org
4–6 Girvan Traditional Folk Festival
11 – 12 Ayr County Show Ayr Racecourse, Ayr www.ayrcountyshow.co.uk
11 – 13 The 10th Irvine Valley Walking Festival Irvine Valley, Newmilns
18 – 21 Arran Mountain Festival 01 Yacht racing on the Firth of Clyde. 02 First class horse racing at Ayr Racecourse.
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E4
Isle of Arran www.arranmountainfestival.co.uk
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
D5
G3
E4
D4
30 – 3 Jun Burns an’ a’ that! Festival Festival Club, Ayr Town Hall, Ayr www.burnsfestival.com
E4
3–5 Ayr Flower Show Rozelle Estate, Ayr www.ayrflowershow.org
June
4 Dundonald Highland Games
2 Prestwick Promenade Celebration
Dundonald, by Troon www.dundonald-games.org.uk
Seafront, Prestwick www.prestwickprom.co.uk
2 Mauchline Holy Fair Mauchline www.mauchlineburnsclub.com
3 Carrick Lowland Gathering Victory Park, Girvan
D4
E4
16 – 27 Marymass Festival Various venues, Irvine www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/events
D4
E5
September G3
7 – 10 Arran Folk Festival Various venues, Brodick, Isle of Arran www.arranfolkfestival.com
E4
1–9 Largs Viking Festival The Pencil Monument, Largs www.largsvikingfestival.com
C3
November D2
9 Whisky an’ a’ that
11 – 13 The 13th Ayrshire Real Ale Festival Concert Hall, Troon www.ayrshirebeerfestival.co.uk
E4
Ayr Town Hall www.robbiesdrams.com
15 – 17 Dundonald Music Festival Various venues, Dundonald www.dundonaldmusicfest.org.uk
30 Isle of Arran Malt Distillery Open Day Lochranza, Isle of Arran www.arranwhisky.com
D4
C1 02
August 1 Arran Farmers’ Society Annual Show Glenkiln, Lamlash, Isle of Arran
This list highlights just a selection of events taking place in Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran in 2012.
E2
The events information contained in this publication is as supplied to VisitScotland and to the best of VisitScotland’s knowledge was correct at the time of going to press. VisitScotland can accept no responsibility for any errors. Events can be subject to change, we recommend you check details with a local VisitScotland Information Centre before travelling (see page 17).
To find out more about Ayrshire & The Isle of Arran go to www.ayrshire-arran.com
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EventScotland, the national events agency, are proud to be supporting another world-class calendar of golf events in Scotland in 2012. Our support for these events are part of our ongoing commitment to host The 2014 Ryder Cup in Scotland, the Home of Golf.
Golf Events in Scotland in 2012 Event
Date
Venue
Aberdeen Ladies Scottish Open
3rd – 5th May
Archerfield Links, East Lothian
Curtis Cup
7th – 10th June
Nairn Golf Club, Highlands
Scottish Hydro Challenge
21st – 24th June
Macdonald Spey Valley Golf Club, Highlands
Scottish Open
12th – 15th July
Castle Stuart Golf Links, Highlands
The Senior Open Championship
26th – 29th July
Turnberry Resort, South Ayrshire
Johnnie Walker Championship
Date TBC
The Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire
Scottish Senior Open
Date TBC
Fairmont St Andrews, Fife
Event information correct as of going to print. Visit www.EventScotland.org/golf for up-to-date information.
32
For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com
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Where to eat and drink in Scotland Each business receives an annual visit by an assessor to ensure that they are maintaining high standards.
Businesses are assessed on â&#x20AC;˘ Hospitality and service â&#x20AC;˘ Quality and presentation of food and drink â&#x20AC;˘ Quality and freshness of ingredients â&#x20AC;˘ Housekeeping and hygiene. So you can be assured of a great eating experience wherever you see the EatScotland logo. EatScotland Silver and Gold awards indicate excellent and outstanding places to dine.
Discover EatScotland eating establishments throughout the country, as well as information on Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fantastic produce and events, at visitscotland.com/foodanddrink
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