The Ayrshire coast, stretching thirty miles from Turnberry to Irvine, boasts numerous fine links courses, including Ailsa, Troon, and Prestwick. However, just ten miles north lies the often-overlooked West Kilbride Golf Club, a championship course set at Seamill. Established in 1893, this private club offers stunning views across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran and the Mull of Kintyre, with a challenging 6,452-yard, 18-hole layout.
James Braid, a five-time Open Champion and prominent golf course architect, significantly influenced the design of West Kilbride. He revamped the original Old Tom Morris 9-hole course in 1914 and made additional recommendations in 1923.
The course begins on higher ground, surrounded by gorse and heather, before thrilling players with a coastal back nine. Notable holes include the par three 16th, “Hunger-em-oot,” and the double-greened 17th, “Sunset.” West Kilbride has hosted the Scottish Boys Championship and the PGA Seniors Championship, reflecting its esteemed status in Scottish golf.
