Dundonald Links

Modern championship links with serious credentials. Host of the Scottish Open and a rising star among Scotland’s elite courses – tough, technical, and beautifully crafted.

Slope Rating

139

Par

72

Yardage

7,100

Dundonald Links is a modern links course with a classic soul. Designed by Kyle Phillips – the same mind behind Kingsbarns – it blends traditional links features with a polished, contemporary feel. Located in the heart of Ayrshire, just minutes from Royal Troon, the course has quickly earned respect, hosting both men’s and women’s Scottish Opens and numerous elite amateur events. The layout is strategic, with wide fairways that narrow on approach, deep revetted bunkers, and undulating greens that demand clever shot-making. The rough is thick and punishing, especially in summer, and the wind off the coast adds a layer of challenge. The back nine builds in intensity, particularly the closing stretch – the par-5 18th is a strong finisher with a risk-reward second shot over a burn. With a world-class clubhouse and on-site luxury lodges, Dundonald delivers a full championship experience with the comfort of a modern resort. It’s fast becoming one of Scotland’s must-play venues.

Designer

Kyle Phillips

Opened

2003

Tee time availability

Good

Special information

Easier to book than nearby Open venues. Offers excellent packages with luxury lodging and dining on site.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

64 – Luke List (Scottish Open)

Ladies course record

65 – Charley Hull (2022 Women’s Scottish Open)

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Recommended – for wind adjustment, bunker avoidance, and green reading

Buggies

Permitted – full modern resort setup

Hit to safe zones off the tee and attack when the wind allows. The green complexes require touch and confidence. Expect a stern, strategic test throughout.

Play to the wide parts of fairways and use the run-ups to access greens. Take your medicine if caught in the rough. Let your caddie guide your approach.

Challenging, but fair. Use the forward tees, enjoy the space off the tee, and focus on avoiding bunkers. Take in the views and luxury experience.

Green speed

9.5 – quick, firm, and consistent

Wind

Regular breeze from the Firth of Clyde – often into you on the back nine. Expect changeable gusts.

Pace of play

Excellent – professionally managed resort with marshals on hand

Nerves on the first tee

Quiet confidence – an elegant modern clubhouse and championship-level setup set the tone

Clubhouse

Ultra-modern with full bar, dining, changing facilities, and stunning design

The par-5 18th is a beast – reachable for some, but guarded by a burn and bunkers. The par-3 15th plays across a gully to a two-tiered green. The par-4 3rd, with its split fairway and dramatic bunkering, is a strategic highlight.

West coast exposure brings a mix of sunshine, showers, and wind. The course drains superbly, and conditions remain firm even after rain. Summer evenings here can be stunning, especially around the 18th green.