Turnberry now has two great courses to play, the Championship Ailsa and the new Kintyre. Both courses date back to the beginning of the 20th century.

Turnberry now has two great courses to play, the Championship Ailsa and the new Kintyre. Both courses date back to the beginning of the 20th century.

Trump Turnberry. This is a stunning seaside course designed by Mackenzie Ross. Not to be missed. If you like Pebble Beach, you will love Turnberry.

Western Gailes. More than 100 years old with a bunker for each year, this is a true links course known for its western gale force winds (the Western Gailes). Nice club house with a good hot lunch.

Royal Troon. A true test of championship golf, this can be a brute if the wind is blowing. Its most famous hole is Postage Stamp. The rough is strangling, the bunkers ferocious.

Royal Troon is a true links course laid out along the sea at sea level. The first six holes are uneventful, as are the last six, but the middle six you will always remember

Royal Troon is a true links course laid out along the sea at sea level. The first six holes are uneventful, as are the last six, but the middle six you will always remember

Prestwick. Home to the first 13 British Opens, this quirky course is one you will either love or hate. No guests on weekends. In the past, ladies were ignored and thus played for free. However, it cost £1 to walk the dog.

Machrihanish. Most American golfers have never heard of it, fewer have played it and almost no one can spell it. It lies at the southern tip of the Mull of Kintyre, a 40-mile-long peninsula jutting into the Atlantic off the Ayrshire coast. Designed by Old Tom Morris, golf has been played here since 1876. This is a hidden gem that you must play.

Glasgow Gailes. Another fine seaside course near Western Gailes and Barassie.

Southerness. Ranked in Scotland’s top 20, almost nobody has ever heard of Southerness. Located on the far south reaches of Scotland overlooking the Solway Firth, it is a very good course and worth a visit if you are in the South.

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