Turnberry Golf's Ailsa Course is one of Scotland's most prestigious golf venues, located on the Ayrshire coast approximately 35 kilometers from Prestwick town center along the A77 road. Established in 1901, the course has hosted multiple Open Championships at the Turnberry Resort and remains a top destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide. Green fees vary seasonally, typically ranging from £150 to £300 per round, while tee times can be booked up to three months in advance. The course is accessible via Prestwick Airport, located just a 20-minute drive from the Turnberry Hotel, making it convenient for international visitors.
Top-Selling Tours
Our most-booked tours and tickets for this destination.

Robert Burns Tour
- Visits to key Robert Burns sites including birth cottage, burial kirk, monument, and museum.
- Convenient hotel pick-up from Greater Glasgow and Clyde area or Ocean Terminal Greenock.

Glasgow: Culzean Castle & Rabbie Burns Private Luxury Day Tour
- Expert local guide with decades of experience in Ayrshire’s history and Burns’ legacy.
- Tailored itinerary allowing stops and pacing adjusted to guest interests.

A Day on the Isle of Arran Including Admission from Glasgow
- Guided visit to Brodick Castle with admission included, providing historical context and access to both interiors and gardens.
- Opportunity to explore several villages on Arran, exposing visitors to local life and scenic views.
- 100% ticket guaranteeReceive tickets on time for the experience you’ve booked.
- Free cancellation*Get a refund if your plans change — most options up to 24h before.
- Instant mobile ticketShow your ticket on your phone — no printing, confirmed instantly.
What are the current green fees for the Ailsa Course at Turnberry Golf?
Green fees for the Ailsa Course at Turnberry Golf range from approximately £150 to £300 per round, depending on the season and time of day.
During peak season, typically from April to September, fees reach their highest, averaging around £280 to £300 for a full 18-hole round. Off-peak rates, usually from October through March, fall closer to £150 to £180. Twilight rates, available in late afternoon tee times, often offer discounted prices around £120 to £160.
These prices may fluctuate slightly due to currency changes and special events hosted at the Turnberry Resort. Booking early on the official Turnberry Golf website helps secure the best rates and preferred tee times.
Booking tee times at Ailsa Course
Tee times for the Ailsa Course can be booked online up to three months in advance through the official Turnberry Golf Club website, with phone reservations available via the club’s pro shop.
The Turnberry Golf website has a secure booking system where visitors select their preferred dates and times. Early morning and late afternoon slots fill quickly, especially during summer months. Phone reservations are handled by the pro shop from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, with staff available to assist with special requests or group bookings.
Walk-in tee times are uncommon due to the course’s popularity, so reserving in advance is recommended. Cancellation policies generally require notice at least 48 hours before the tee time to avoid fees.
Map of Turnberry Golf
What should I know about the layout and difficulty of the Ailsa Course at Turnberry Golf?
The Ailsa Course is a championship-level links course measuring approximately 7,300 yards with a par of 70, known for challenging coastal winds and strategic bunkering along the Firth of Clyde coastline.
Designed by Willie Fernie and later redesigned by Mackenzie Ross, the course combines long holes and tight fairways that require precise shot placement. Natural dunes and undulating greens near Turnberry Lighthouse test a golfer’s skill in reading wind and ground conditions. The signature 9th hole, a par 5, features panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde.
Players should prepare for variable weather typical of the Ayrshire coast, carrying softer spikes or spikeless shoes suited to links golf. The Ailsa Course demands both physical endurance and tactical thinking, presenting a challenging game for experienced golfers.
When are the best times of year and day to play at Turnberry’s Ailsa Course?
The best times to play the Ailsa Course are late spring and early autumn, when weather near Turnberry is milder and course maintenance is at its peak.
May, June, and September usually offer more stable weather with daytime temperatures between 12°C and 18°C, reducing the chance of heavy winds or rain. Early morning tee times often bring calmer winds and fewer players, while late afternoon slots provide dramatic low-angle light but may have stronger coastal breezes.
Winter months bring colder temperatures and shorter daylight, which affect playability and course conditions. Off-peak season tee times come with lower green fees but require flexibility due to unpredictable weather.
Group green fee rates and packages at Turnberry Golf
Turnberry Golf Club features group booking options and occasional package deals combining green fees with accommodation at the Turnberry Hotel or dining at the Kintyre Bar and Restaurant, providing savings for visitors.
Groups of eight or more can request custom arrangements through the club’s events team, including preferred tee times and access to practice facilities. Seasonal packages often coincide with local hotel features, including those at the adjacent Turnberry Hotel.
Golf travelers can also check with Ayrshire tourism platforms or golf tour operators for bundled deals. Early booking and direct inquiries with the club often produce the best value, especially during shoulder seasons.
“If you're teeing off on the Ailsa Course around 9 AM, expect green fees near £150, and afterward, try the Cullen Skink at the nearby Prestwick Harbour Café on Main Street for a proper local taste.”
What facilities and services are available at Turnberry Golf Club for Ailsa Course players?
Turnberry Golf Club features comprehensive facilities including a pro shop, practice areas, locker rooms, and dining options to support players on the Ailsa Course.
The pro shop carries a wide range of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories from leading brands, with professional staff on hand for advice and club fitting. Practice facilities include a driving range, putting greens, and short game areas located near the clubhouse for warming up.
The clubhouse features locker rooms with showers and secure storage, plus the Kintyre Bar and Restaurant where players can enjoy meals and refreshments. Wi-Fi is available throughout the clubhouse, and caddies can be arranged by request to enhance the playing experience.
How do I get to Turnberry Golf Club from Prestwick and nearby transport hubs?
Turnberry Golf Club is about 35 kilometers southwest of Prestwick town center and reachable by car or taxi in roughly 30 minutes via the A77 road.
The most direct route from Prestwick follows the A77 straight to Turnberry. Prestwick Airport, just 20 minutes by car from the Turnberry Hotel, provides convenient access for international visitors.
Public transport is limited in the area, though local bus services connect nearby towns. Pre-arranged taxi services are recommended to ensure timely arrival. Free on-site parking is available for visitors.
What local insights can enhance my visit to Turnberry Golf’s Ailsa Course?
Local golfers recommend arriving early to practice and walking the course to get a feel for the wind patterns and green breaks around the Turnberry Lighthouse area.
Weekday tee times tend to be less crowded than weekends. The nearby Turnberry Hotel features public spaces with views overlooking the Ailsa Course, ideal for relaxing before or after a round.
For savings, consider combined green fee and accommodation packages or consult Royal Troon Golf Club: Green Fees and Visitor Guide and Ayrshire Golf Courses: Complete Guide to the Links Coast for other Ayrshire golfing options.
Where to stay in Prestwick
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