Dundonald Links

Dundonald Links is a modern par 72 of about 6,264 metres from the medal markers, designed by Kyle Phillips on historic Ayrshire golfing ground and opened in its present form in 2003. Rolling land, large bunkers, gorse, ditches and Firth of Clyde views are organised within a clear championship design.

Willie Fernie’s first course opened on the site in 1911 before the two world wars left it heavily altered. Loch Lomond Golf Club acquired the land in 2003 and commissioned Kyle Phillips, already known for Kingsbarns, to build a new links. After a period as a members’ venue, Dundonald developed as an independent resort, with major investment and new clubhouse and accommodation opening in 2021. The property lies in the dense links corridor between Irvine, Troon and the Firth of Clyde. Dunes are lower than on some ancient courses, but the ground moves continually. Pine trees frame several areas, an unusual regional feature, while gorse and ditches follow natural contours. Western Gailes, Gailes Links and Barassie sit nearby.

Phillips aimed for the appearance of an old links without copying historic holes. Fairways are often broad but divided by bunkers and slopes. Greens contain plateaux, bowls and distinct recovery zones. The short eleventh demands distance control, the thirteenth follows the railway and the long sixteenth into the prevailing wind provides a championship examination. Tee options range from 6,415 to 7,300 yards. Medal length near 6,850 yards equals roughly 6,264 metres. Firm turf supports running shots, yet green entrances are frequently guarded by hollows or sand. Strong drainage and modern maintenance provide consistent presentation, while seasonal rough becomes demanding.

Dundonald is now a complete resort with lodges, rooms, Canny Crow restaurant, range, short-game area, putting greens, gym and golf services. The contemporary clubhouse overlooks the course and Arran. Online booking is straightforward and multiple tees suit mixed groups, while the experience remains strongly golf-led.

Play it as one of Scotland’s best examples of contemporary links architecture. Dundonald has enough width to remain enjoyable and enough precision to test elite players. Its Scottish Open, Women’s Scottish Open and Final Qualifying history confirms that the design functions for both visitors and championships. 18 holes; par 72; about 6,264 metres from medal markers; historic course opened 1911; current Kyle Phillips layout opened 2003; Scottish Open 2017; repeated Women’s Scottish Opens; Open Final Qualifying 2023–2026.

Scottish Open; Women’s Scottish Open; Open Final Qualifying; Boys Amateur — 2014; 2015–2017; 2022–2026; Final Qualifying 2023–2026 Rafa Cabrera Bello won the 2017 Scottish Open; Lottie Woad won the 2025 Women’s Scottish Open in her first professional start