Named after the third Marquess of Ailsa, who owned the land on which it was built, this par-71, 6,474-yard Championship course is one of golf's storied places. Home to four Open Championships, Ailsa has shaped some of the most remarkable moments in the tournament's history.
Set alongside the glorious Ayrshire coastline, with Arran and Ailsa Craig as a stunning backdrop, it is one of the finest golfing destinations in the world.
From the 1st of June, the course reopens after a series of dramatic but sympathetic changes by renowned architect, Martin Ebert of Mackenzie & Ebert.
All 18 holes have seen changes made with huge areas of turf moved between the various holes to complete the refurbishment.
The 1st hole has been lengthened at both the tee and the green and at the same time creating a wider landing area. The 4th hole enjoys a new tee located close to the sea with the green moved further on and edged towards the coastline. This hole starts an incredible 8-hole coastal stretch that will prove to be unrivalled in the golfing world.
History of Course:
The most junior of Open venues, the Ailsa course is nevertheless one of the best and toughest challenges in championship golf. Sited between the magnificent Turnberry Hotel and the sea, this great course weaves in and out of spectacular dunes. Turnberry lighthouse and Ailsa Craig, standing over 1,200 foot high out at sea, form great backdrops to all of the holes, and the ruins of Robert the Bruce's castle can be seen from the signature 9th hole. Although stretched to over 7,000 yards for Open Championships, the medal course is not one that demands great power for par but rather more care and attention to detail both off the tee and with the approach shots. Perhaps best noted for the famous 'Duel in the Sun' between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977, the Ailsa Course hosted the Open Championship for the 4th time in 2009, when Stewart Cink triumphed.
