The Ailsa Course at Turnberry Resort stands out as one of the most picturesque Open Championship venues, offering stunning views of Ailsa Craig, the Mull of Kintyre, and the Isle of Arran. Established in 1902, Turnberry Golf Club commissioned Willie Fernie to design a championship course, later renamed the Ailsa in 1926. Despite facing near-extinction during World Wars, the course survived and hosted its first Open in 1977, famously known for the “Duel in the Sun” between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson.
In preparation for the 2009 Open, the course underwent extensive alterations by Mackenzie & Ebert, enhancing its layout. The championship witnessed another memorable moment when 59-year-old Tom Watson narrowly missed winning. Architect Martin Ebert further upgraded the course in 2015, elevating its profile.
The Ailsa offers a captivating out-and-back layout, with a thrilling stretch from the 4th to the 11th and challenging finishing holes, including the iconic “Duel in the Sun” 18th. Despite its prestige, Turnberry introduced the King Robert the Bruce course in 2017, complementing the Ailsa’s renowned status.
