Royal Troon Golf Club: A Prestigious Legacy in Scottish Golf

Royal Troon Golf Club, nestled along the rugged Ayrshire coast in Scotland, stands as a beacon of golfing excellence and tradition. Established in 1878, this prestigious club has earned its place among the world’s most renowned golf destinations. With its challenging links courses and rich history, Royal Troon has become synonymous with championship golf and has played host to numerous prestigious tournaments, including The Open Championship.

The club’s Old Course, designed by Willie Fernie and later modified by James Braid, is widely regarded as one of the finest tests of golf in the world. Its windswept fairways, deep bunkers, and undulating greens have challenged and inspired golfers for over a century. Alongside the Old Course, the Portland Course offers a complementary golfing experience, providing members and visitors with diverse playing options.

Royal Troon’s significance extends beyond its fairways and greens. The club has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of Scottish golf, contributing to the country’s reputation as the spiritual home of the sport. Its influence on golf architecture, tournament play, and the development of the game is immeasurable.

As we delve into the history, courses, and legacy of Royal Troon Golf Club, we’ll explore the elements that have made it a cornerstone of golfing excellence and a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe.

History of Royal Troon

Founding and Early Years

Royal Troon Golf Club’s story began in 1878 when a group of golf enthusiasts gathered at the local pub in Troon, Scotland. Their vision was to establish a golf course that would take advantage of the natural links land along the Ayrshire coast. The club was initially founded as Troon Golf Club, with a modest five-hole course laid out on the windswept dunes.

The original course was designed by Charles Hunter, the club’s first keeper of the green. Hunter, drawing inspiration from the natural contours of the land, created a layout that would form the foundation of what would become one of the world’s most respected golf courses. By 1888, the course had been expanded to a full 18 holes, reflecting the growing popularity of golf in Scotland and the increasing ambitions of the club.

In these early years, Troon Golf Club quickly gained a reputation for its challenging play and stunning coastal setting. The club’s proximity to Prestwick Golf Club, which had hosted the first Open Championship in 1860, helped to attract golfers from far and wide, eager to test their skills on the emerging links.

Notable Events and Milestones

As Troon Golf Club entered the 20th century, it began to make its mark on the wider golfing world. In 1923, the club hosted its first Open Championship, a significant milestone that would cement its place among the elite venues in golf. Arthur Havers emerged victorious in this inaugural Open at Troon, setting the stage for a long and illustrious relationship between the club and golf’s oldest major championship.

The club’s status continued to grow, and in 1978, to commemorate its centenary year, it was granted the royal title by Queen Elizabeth II. This honor reflected not only the club’s historical significance but also its ongoing contribution to the game of golf. The newly named Royal Troon Golf Club now stood alongside other prestigious royal golf clubs in the United Kingdom.

Throughout its history, Royal Troon has been the site of numerous memorable golfing moments. The 1962 Open Championship saw Arnold Palmer claim victory, further enhancing the club’s international reputation. In 1982, Tom Watson’s triumph added another chapter to the club’s storied history.

Year	Milestone
1878	Troon Golf Club founded
1888	Course expanded to 18 holes
1923	First Open Championship hosted
1978	Granted royal status
2016	Henrik Stenson wins The Open in record-breaking fashion

Royal Troon’s commitment to excellence has been evident in its continuous efforts to improve and adapt the course. Significant renovations and updates have been carried out over the years, always with the goal of maintaining the course’s challenge and integrity while adapting to modern golfing equipment and techniques.

The club has also played a crucial role in the development of golf in Scotland and beyond. It has been a breeding ground for talented players, with many members going on to represent their countries in international competitions. The club’s junior development programs have helped nurture the next generation of golfing talent, ensuring that Royal Troon’s legacy continues well into the future.

As Royal Troon Golf Club approaches its 150th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of links golf and the rich history of the sport in Scotland. From its humble beginnings as a five-hole course to its status as a regular host of The Open Championship, Royal Troon has remained true to its founding principles of providing a stern test of golf in a spectacular natural setting.

The Courses at Royal Troon

The Old Course

Layout and Design

The Old Course at Royal Troon is the crown jewel of the club and one of the most respected links courses in the world. Designed originally by Willie Fernie and later modified by James Braid, the Old Course is a classic example of Scottish links golf, characterized by its natural beauty, strategic challenges, and the ever-present influence of the wind.

Stretching to 7,208 yards from the championship tees, the Old Course presents a formidable challenge to golfers of all skill levels. The layout follows a traditional out-and-back routing, with the front nine running along the coastline before the back nine turns inland and returns to the clubhouse.

The course is known for its variety, with each hole presenting a unique challenge. The opening holes, played with the prevailing wind, offer a relatively gentle start. However, as players turn back towards the clubhouse around the 8th hole, they face an increasingly stern test, particularly if the wind is against them.

Key features of the Old Course include:

Deep pot bunkers: Strategically placed and often hidden from view, these bunkers demand precision and can severely punish errant shots.

Gorse and heather: Native vegetation lines many fairways, adding both beauty and difficulty to the course.
Undulating greens: The putting surfaces are known for their subtle breaks and challenging pin positions.
Coastal views: The course offers stunning vistas of the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Arran.

Famous Holes

While every hole on the Old Course has its merits, several stand out as particularly noteworthy:

The Postage Stamp (8th hole): Perhaps the most famous hole at Royal Troon, this par-3 measures just 123 yards but is surrounded by deep bunkers. Its small green, measuring only 420 square feet, gives the hole its name and presents a daunting target, especially in windy conditions.
The Railway (11th hole): This 482-yard par-4 is consistently ranked as one of the toughest holes in championship golf. With the railway line running along the right side and thick gorse on the left, accuracy off the tee is paramount.

Turnberry (6th hole): At 601 yards, this par-5 is one of the longest holes in Open Championship golf. It requires three well-struck shots to reach the green, with out-of-bounds lurking on the right.

Hole	Name	Par	Yards	Key Feature
8	Postage Stamp	3	123	Tiny green surrounded by bunkers
11	Railway	4	482	Railway line along right side
6	Turnberry	5	601	One of the longest Open holes

The Portland Course

Overview and Characteristics

While the Old Course may garner most of the attention, Royal Troon’s Portland Course is a worthy companion that offers its own unique challenges and pleasures. Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie in 1895 and later modified by Willie Fernie, the Portland Course provides a different golfing experience while maintaining the high standards associated with Royal Troon.

Key characteristics of the Portland Course include:

Length: At 6,349 yards from the back tees, it’s shorter than the Old Course but no less challenging.
Terrain: While still a links course, it features more varied terrain, including some tree-lined holes.
Bunkering: MacKenzie’s influence is evident in the strategic placement of bunkers throughout the course.

Greens: The putting surfaces are known for their subtle contours and fast speeds.

The Portland Course serves several important functions for Royal Troon:

It provides an excellent alternative for members when the Old Course is hosting tournaments or is busy with visitors.

It offers a less daunting challenge for higher handicap players or those new to links golf.
It’s used as a qualifying course for various competitions, including The Open when it’s held at Royal Troon.

Other Practice Facilities

Royal Troon Golf Club boasts comprehensive practice facilities to help golfers hone their skills:

Driving Range: A full-length range allows players to work on all aspects of their long game.
Short Game Area: Dedicated areas for chipping, pitching, and bunker play help golfers fine-tune their scoring shots.
Putting Green: A large practice green mimics the conditions found on the courses, allowing players to acclimate to the speeds and breaks.

These facilities, combined with the two championship courses, make Royal Troon a complete golfing destination, capable of hosting major tournaments while providing members and visitors with everything they need to improve their game.

Royal Troon Golf Club Membership

Types of Memberships

Royal Troon Golf Club offers several membership categories, each designed to cater to different golfing needs and lifestyles. While specific details and prices are subject to change, the general structure of memberships typically includes:

Full Membership: This is the most comprehensive membership, offering unlimited access to both the Old and Portland courses, as well as all club facilities. Full members also enjoy voting rights and can participate in all club competitions.

Country Membership: Designed for those who live beyond a certain radius from the club (often 50 miles), this membership offers reduced playing rights but still allows access to both courses.
Overseas Membership: For international golf enthusiasts, this category provides limited playing rights during visits to Scotland.
Junior Membership: Aimed at nurturing young talent, this category is available for golfers under a certain age (typically 18 or 21).

Social Membership: For those who wish to enjoy the clubhouse facilities and social aspects of the club without full playing rights.

Each membership category comes with its own set of benefits, restrictions, and annual dues. It’s worth noting that due to the club’s prestigious status, there may be a waiting list for certain membership categories.

Membership Type	Access to Old Course	Access to Portland Course	Voting Rights	Competitions
Full	Unlimited	Unlimited	Yes	All
Country	Limited	Limited	Yes	Selected
Overseas	Limited	Limited	No	Selected
Junior	Limited	Unlimited	No	Junior
Social	No	No	No	No

Application Process

Becoming a member of Royal Troon Golf Club is a process that reflects the club’s rich history and prestigious status. While the exact details may vary, the general steps typically include:

Initial Inquiry: Prospective members usually need to express their interest in joining by contacting the club’s membership secretary.
Sponsorship: Most private clubs, including Royal Troon, require applicants to be sponsored by existing members. This often means having two or more current members vouch for the applicant’s character and suitability for membership.
Application Submission: A formal application must be completed, providing personal details, golfing history, and other relevant information.

Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an interview with the membership committee. This is an opportunity for the club to get to know the applicant and vice versa.
Handicap Verification: For playing memberships, proof of handicap is usually required. Royal Troon, like many prestigious clubs, may have a maximum handicap limit for new members.
Waiting Period: Due to high demand, there may be a waiting list for membership. The length of this period can vary significantly.

Approval: If accepted, the applicant will be notified and provided with details on membership fees and any joining fees.
Induction: New members are often invited to an induction session to familiarize them with the club’s facilities, rules, and traditions.

It’s important to note that Royal Troon, like many traditional golf clubs, values its history and traditions highly. Prospective members are expected to demonstrate not only golfing ability but also an appreciation for the ethos and culture of the club.

The club’s membership policies aim to maintain a balance between preserving its heritage and ensuring a vibrant, diverse membership base. While exact numbers are not publicly disclosed, Royal Troon is known to have a substantial membership, with a healthy mix of local, national, and international members.

Membership at Royal Troon offers more than just access to world-class golf courses. It provides entry into a community of golf enthusiasts, opportunities to participate in prestigious tournaments, and the chance to be part of a club with a rich history in the sport. The networking opportunities, both on and off the course, are often cited as a significant benefit of membership.

For many golfers, becoming a member of Royal Troon represents the pinnacle of their golfing journey, offering the chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing legends and to play regularly on courses that have shaped the history of the sport.

Playing at Royal Troon

Visitor Information

Royal Troon Golf Club welcomes visitors to experience its world-renowned courses, offering a unique opportunity to play on the same links that have challenged the greatest golfers in history. Visitors should be aware of the following key points:

Handicap Requirements: Gents must have a handicap of 20 or less, while ladies must have a handicap of 30 or less. Handicap certificates may be requested[2].
Age Restrictions: Golfers must be aged 12 and over to play either the Old Course or the Portland Course. For the Old Course, golfers aged 12 to 15 are required to have a handicap of 12 or less[2].

Dress Code: The club maintains a traditional dress code. Trousers and shorts should be tailored and appropriate for golf. Denim, tracksuits, and sports shoes are not permitted on the courses or in the clubhouse[2].

Tee Time Reservations

Securing a tee time at Royal Troon requires advance planning:

Tee times are available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays[1].

Reservations can be made by calling +44 (0)1292 311 555 or emailing [email protected][1].
An online tee booking system is available through the club’s website[3].

Green Fees and Packages

As of the 2025 season (14 April 2025 – 9 October 2025), the green fees are as follows[1]:

Course	Regular Fee	PGA Member Fee
Old Course	£365.00	£285.00
Portland Course	£125.00	£95.00

A day ticket is available for £420.00 per golfer (£340.00 for PGA Members), which includes one round on the Old Course and one round on the Portland Course[1].

Major Championships at Royal Troon

The Open Championship History

Royal Troon has a rich history of hosting The Open Championship, with nine memorable tournaments held on its challenging links:

1923: Arthur Havers became the first Open champion at Troon, winning with a score of 295[4].

1950: Bobby Locke secured his second Open title with a record-breaking score of 279[4].
1962: Arnold Palmer claimed victory, beginning a streak of American dominance at Troon[4].
1973: Tom Weiskopf triumphed with a score of 276[4].

1982: Tom Watson won his fourth Open Championship at Troon[4].
1989: Mark Calcavecchia emerged victorious in a playoff[5].
1997: Justin Leonard secured his first and only major championship[4].

2004: Todd Hamilton surprised the golfing world with his victory[5].
2016: Henrik Stenson won in record-breaking fashion, ending the American winning streak at Troon[6].

Other Significant Tournaments

Royal Troon has hosted numerous other prestigious events, including:

The Amateur Championship (5 times: 1956, 1968, 1978, 2003, 2012)[6]
The British Ladies Amateur Golf Championship (4 times: 1904, 1925, 1952, 1984)[6]
The Senior Open Championship (2008)[6]

The Scottish Amateur (6 times: 1923, 1956, 1963, 1969, 1977, 2009)[6]
The Scottish Ladies’ Amateur (5 times: 1907, 1949, 1957, 1963, 1982)[6]

In 2020, Royal Troon hosted The Women’s Open Championship, marking a significant moment in the club’s history[6].

Royal Troon Golf Club Facilities

Clubhouse Amenities

The Royal Troon clubhouse, built in 1886 and designed by Henry Edward Clifford, offers a blend of historical charm and modern comforts:

Dining Options: The clubhouse features multiple dining areas, including the Club Bar, Ailsa Room, and Dining Room. Catering is available from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm, with sandwiches and salad boxes available by pre-order after 5:00 pm[2].
Locker Rooms: Secure facilities are provided, though visitors are advised not to leave valuables unattended[2].

Smoke Room: A traditional space where gentlemen are required to wear jacket and tie[2].
Environmental Initiatives: The club has removed single-use plastic water bottles and installed a cool-filtered water station for refilling reusable bottles[2].

Pro Shop and Golf Academy

While specific details about the pro shop and golf academy are not provided in the search results, it’s common for prestigious clubs like Royal Troon to offer:

A well-stocked pro shop with high-quality golf equipment and branded merchandise.
Professional instruction and clinics through a golf academy.
Club and trolley hire services, which are available through the Club Professional, Mr Kieron Stevenson[2].

Royal Troon also boasts comprehensive practice facilities, including:

A full-length driving range
Dedicated short game areas for chipping, pitching, and bunker play

A large practice putting green that mimics course conditions[2]

These facilities ensure that both members and visitors can hone their skills and prepare for the challenges of the historic links courses.

Royal Troon’s Place in Scottish Golf

Royal Troon holds a distinguished position among Scotland’s prestigious golf courses, contributing significantly to the country’s rich golfing heritage. When comparing Royal Troon to other renowned Scottish courses, several factors stand out:

Comparison to other prestigious courses:

Old Course at St Andrews: While St Andrews is often considered the “Home of Golf,” Royal Troon offers a different challenge with its more rugged coastal setting.
Muirfield: Both courses are known for their challenging layouts, but Royal Troon’s famous “Postage Stamp” hole gives it a unique character.

Carnoustie: These courses share a reputation for being tough tests of golf, especially when the wind blows.

Royal Troon’s distinctive features include:

The contrasting nines: The outward nine is generally considered easier, while the inward nine is known for its difficulty.

The world-famous “Postage Stamp” 8th hole, one of the most recognizable par-3s in golf.
The challenging “Railway” hole (11th), bordered by an active railway line.

Impact on Scottish golf tourism:

Royal Troon plays a crucial role in attracting golf tourists to Scotland. According to a study by Scottish Enterprise, golf tourism generated £120 million in revenue for Scotland in 2011[14]. As one of the courses on The Open rota, Royal Troon contributes significantly to this figure.

The club’s reputation draws international visitors, boosting local economies.
Its presence on The Open rota ensures regular global exposure for Scottish golf.

The course’s challenging nature appeals to serious golfers looking to test their skills.

Famous Golfers Associated with Royal Troon

Royal Troon has been associated with numerous golfing legends throughout its history, both as members and as champions of The Open Championship held at the course.

Notable members:

Colin Montgomerie: The former European Ryder Cup captain grew up playing at Royal Troon, where his father was secretary.
Willie Fernie: The 1883 Open Champion who later became the club’s professional and helped redesign the course.

Championship winners:

Royal Troon has hosted The Open Championship nine times, with winners including[9]:

Arthur Havers (1923)
Bobby Locke (1950)

Arnold Palmer (1962)
Tom Weiskopf (1973)
Tom Watson (1982)

Mark Calcavecchia (1989)
Justin Leonard (1997)
Todd Hamilton (2004)

Henrik Stenson (2016)

Henrik Stenson’s victory in 2016 was particularly memorable, as he set a record low score for The Open Championship with 264 strokes over four rounds, narrowly beating Phil Mickelson in what became known as the “Duel at Troon”[7].

Planning Your Visit to Royal Troon

When planning a visit to Royal Troon, consider the following:

Accommodation options:

Marine Hotel: Located adjacent to Royal Troon, offering views of the course and the Firth of Clyde.
South Beach Hotel: A boutique hotel in Troon, within walking distance of the golf course.

Piersland House Hotel: A country house hotel near the course, originally built for the Johnnie Walker whisky family.

Transportation and directions:

By Train: Troon station is approximately 1.3km from the main spectator entrance. During The Open, a Golflink bus service is available[12].

By Car: There’s no public parking at Royal Troon during The Open. Park & Ride facilities are provided[12].
By Bus: Local bus services connect Troon to nearby towns and Glasgow[12].
By Bicycle: National Cycle Route 7 runs past Royal Troon, with free cycle parking provided during The Open[12].

Local attractions:

Culzean Castle: A clifftop castle with beautiful gardens, located about 20 miles south of Troon.
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum: Dedicated to Scotland’s national poet, located in nearby Alloway.

Isle of Arran: Accessible by ferry from nearby Ardrossan, offering stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Royal Troon Golf Club: Preserving Tradition

Royal Troon is committed to maintaining its historic course while adapting to modern golfing needs and environmental concerns.

Course maintenance and improvements:

Regular updates to the course layout, overseen by renowned golf architects like Martin Ebert[7].
Continuous work to maintain the quality of the greens and fairways, especially in preparation for major tournaments.
Recent improvements include deepening the infamous “Coffin” bunker on the Postage Stamp hole[15].

Environmental initiatives:

While specific details about Royal Troon’s environmental initiatives are not provided in the search results, many prestigious golf clubs are focusing on:

Water conservation through efficient irrigation systems.
Use of native plant species to reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.
Wildlife habitat preservation, especially in coastal areas.
Sustainable energy use in clubhouse facilities.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Royal Troon Golf Club

Royal Troon Golf Club stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of links golf and Scotland’s central role in the sport’s history. From its humble beginnings in 1878 to its status as a regular host of The Open Championship, Royal Troon has consistently provided a stern test for the world’s best golfers while maintaining its unique character.

The club’s legacy is built on several key factors:

Its challenging course layout, particularly the demanding back nine.
Iconic holes like the Postage Stamp and Railway, which have become part of golfing lore.
Its role in hosting memorable championships, including the epic duel between Henrik Stenson and Phil Mickelson in 2016.
Its contribution to Scottish golf tourism and the local economy.

As Royal Troon prepares to host its 10th Open Championship in 2024, it continues to evolve while respecting its rich traditions. The club’s commitment to preserving the essence of links golf while adapting to modern playing standards ensures that it will remain a pivotal part of the golfing world for generations to come.

Royal Troon Golf Club is more than just a golf course; it’s a living piece of golfing history, a challenging test for players of all levels, and a key component of Scotland’s golfing heritage. Whether you’re a professional competing for the Claret Jug or an amateur fulfilling a lifelong dream, a round at Royal Troon is an unforgettable experience that connects you to the very roots of the game.