Hosted the British Open golf championship back in 1977, 1986, 1994, and 2009
Ayrshire's emerald landscape is considered one of rural Scotland's finest treasures - a coastal paradise where locals and visitors can find some of the most beautiful cliffs and iconic castles in the country. Trump Turnberry stands atop one of these cliffs, overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Originally built in 1906 as a railway hotel, it has since transformed into one of Scotland's most luxurious resorts. The vast grounds boast a wide array of facilities and restaurants, as well as partnerships with other nearby establishments such as a horse ranch and an adventure camp. The crowning jewel of the estate, however, are its two massive golf courses, which have hosted the British Open several times in the past century.
Turnberry, Turnberry, Turnberry, United Kingdom, KA269LT
Trump Turnberry started out in 1906 as the Turnberry Station Hotel, a railway hotel created as part of the Maidens and Dunure Light Railway route to draw travelers to the remote Ayrshire coast. Designed by architect James Miller, the hotel was also created to showcase early-20th-century modernity by way of modern comforts. The hotel boasted things that were utter luxuries for the time, including electric lighting and centralized heating. Even then, the hotel already featured its signature white facade and red roof, making it an easily recognizable landmark along the Firth of Clyde.
Throughout the mid-20th century, Turnberry's fortunes could be described as tumultuous. Although managed by British Transport Hotels for some time, it changed hands several times. Each new owner expanded the property, adding amenities such as conference spaces and spa and wellness facilities. Every improvement helped Turnberry grow from a seasonal golf retreat into a much more diverse leisure destination for both locals and foreign travelers. It also hosted some of the most memorable British Open championships, such as the iconic 1977 Duel in the Sun between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus.
The Turnberry Station Hotel was brought back to life in 2008, when the resort underwent an extensive renovation ahead of hosting The British Open. Designers painstakingly restored the historic 1906 interiors while upgrading the hotel for contemporary luxury. In 2014, the Trump Organization acquired the hotel and launched a large-scale redevelopment, rebranding it as Trump Turnberry Resort. The redevelopment included refurbishing the hotel and reimagining the golf courses and facilities. Also introduced were new facilities such as the King Robert the Bruce Course and an ostentatious ballroom.
The original design of Turnberry Station Hotel is credited to James Miller, a noted Scottish architect whose work included railway stations. This is perfectly fitting as the hotel was built alongside a railway line to welcome visitors arriving by train. He envisioned a design that stood out from the Ayrshire landscape, creating a building with a white-washed plaster facade topped with a red pantile roof, which is maintained to this day.
During its opening, the hotel was considered state-of-the-art, as it boasted creature comforts few establishments could. The lighting was electrical, heating was centralized, and guests had options for both hot and cold running water. Leisurecorp acquired the property in 2008 and immediately began major renovations to host the 2009 British Open. Refurbishments were supervised by designers and architects who restored the many facilities and public areas, ocean-facing rooms and suites, and the main entrance courtyard.
More refurbishments followed when the Trump Organization acquired the estate in 2014. These included upgrades to the clubhouse, the addition of a new ballroom, and modifications to the golf courses. Of course, considerations are included for wheelchair accessibility, with designated suites and rooms equipped with mobility assistance features like handrails, and adjusted sinks and shower seats.
1906 Restaurant
The resort’s signature fine-dining restaurant is named after the year the hotel originally opened, back when it was the Turnberry Station Hotel. 1906 serves a menu rooted in locally sourced Scottish ingredients, from the seafood to aged beef and seasonal produce. Each dish is prepared with care to bring out the best qualities in each item.
Grand Tea Lounge and Bar
Located at the heart of the hotel, the opulent Grand Tea Lounge and Bar offers a relaxed setting for dining and refreshments. It’s the ideal spot for casual lunches, afternoon teas, and nightcaps. Guests can enjoy a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and teas, while the bar is stocked well with whiskies and cocktails.
The Duel in the Sun
Trump Turnberry's bar & grill located in the clubhouse was named after the famous British Open championship match between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson. The restaurant features a menu centered on steaks and lobster, along with other locally sourced seafood. Conveniently close to the golf courses, it’s popular among golfers before and after their game, offering a cozy spot with all-day dining and drinks.
King of Scots
A unique halfway house set within the resort’s historic Turnberry Lighthouse, offering a variety of refreshments, light meals, and drinks. Guests can unwind while admiring the panoramic views over the courses and coastline.
Afternoon Tea
Experience this beloved British daily tradition with a flair of Scottish hospitality. Savor a wide variety of desserts and sandwiches, including fresh breads and pastries. If you're celebrating a special moment, do it with a glass of champagne or a glass of Hendricks Gin.
The Chef's Table
A special private dinner prepared for up to 10 guests and held in the main kitchen. Here, diners enjoy a “culinary performance” from the chefs, showcasing dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, along with wine pairings curated by the sommelier. Each menu is unique for each group, changing with the availability of ingredients.
Trump Turnberry will help you turn the magical Ayrshire coastal landscape into a stylish and luxurious setting for your weddings. The hotel offers flexibility as the resort accommodates intimate ceremonies and also grand celebrations. The variety of venues allows each wedding to feel distinct and personal, especially when each event is customized to the client's vision. Each tailored wedding package can match your budget and expectations, creating momentous gatherings for modest and large-scale events.
Along with the wedding celebrations, Trump Turnberry also integrates the resort’s leisure amenities into the experience. Guests can enjoy golf, spa treatments, and outdoor activities, transforming a wedding into a memorable getaway. For couples who wish to have an entirely private experience, the resort offers the option of exclusive use, allowing the entire property to be reserved for the event.
Trump Turnberry boasts an impressive selection of activities and experiences that you can avail and try while staying at the resort. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or perhaps a family or group of friends, you're sure to find something fun and relaxing.
The resort’s horse-riding center is one of its signature attractions, providing beach rides along the Ayrshire coastline, as well as riding lessons, pony encounters for kids, and even horse carriage rides. For those seeking excitement, Turnberry Adventures delivers an array of outdoor sports and activities. Visitors can participate in clay pigeon shooting, rifle and air-rifle sessions, or learn traditional longbow archery, each with their own dedicated facility. Rugged explorations of the region are also possible with options such as quad biking and 4×4 off-road driving. For a more leisurely pace, you can rent an electric bike instead.
Last but not least, take advantage of the comprehensive spa facilities to soothe your aches, stress, and tiredness. Indulge in various hydro and thermal experiences, including dips in the infinity pool and hot tubs, or detoxing in steam rooms and saunas. Of course, no spa is complete without a menu of incredible therapies, body rituals, and treatments. There's also a well-equipped fitness gym that provides where you can maintain your routines, or start a new one.
The coastal landscape of Trump Turnberry also makes for a magnificent location for your company conferences and private functions. Complementing the beautiful environment, the resort provides impressive venues for your meetings and events, ranging from grand ballrooms to intimate boardrooms. Each can be configured for various scales, such as family banquets, professional conferences, and small executive meetings. Aside from the event itself, you may also avail of experiences that can be bundled with your gathering. These include activities like spa days, regional tours, or group activities at Turnberry Adventures.
Stunning clifftop castle famed for its 18th-century architecture. The estate is now managed by the National Trust for Scotland and is open for tours from spring to autumn. (16-minute drive)
Historic lighthouse constructed on the site of Turnberry Castle, the childhood home of Robert the Bruce. (8-minute drive)
Local farm park with a variety of attractions, including a petting zoo, hands-on farm activities, and vehicle rides. (22-minute drive)
The closest airport is Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK), a convenient 35-minute drive from Trump Turnberry.
Girvan Station is the closest railway station to the hotel, just 10 minutes away by car.